Rugby Canada Announces 2020 Age Grade Law Variations
Age Grade
Rugby Canada is pleased to announce the 2020 Age Grade Law Variations. Working with the Provincial Unions and the Age Grade Law Variations Review Committee, the updated version of the Law Variations aims to create the most enjoyable and age appropriate version of rugby that allows youth to learn the game of rugby in stages, as well as implement a standard version of the game to be played across the country.
[We remind all rugby stakeholders of the current suspension of all Rugby Canada sanctioned activity, including practices and training sessions, until at least April 10, 2020 due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The Rugby Canada statement can be found here.]
Langford, BC - Rugby Canada is pleased to announce the launch of the 2020 Age Grade Law Variations. Working with the Provincial Unions and the Age Grade Law Variations Review Committee, the updated version of the Law Variations aims to create the most enjoyable and age appropriate version of rugby that allows youth to learn the game of rugby in stages, as well as implement a standard version of the game to be played across the country.
There was a particular emphasis during the review process on ensuring player welfare was addressed throughout the document, and though some alterations were made around language to ensure consistency, there will be no change to the age at which players can begin contact rugby. Additionally, there will be no change to the process which allows players to play down an age-grade, or to use the variations of a lower age grade, for those who are not ready for contact.
“We looked at all aspects of where to begin contact rugby for players, and felt strongly that no changes to the law variations were required at this time. We also will not be allowing U9 players to obtain dispensation to begin contact rugby at a younger age,” said Ryan Jones, co-chair of the review committee. “This decision was made in the best interest of player welfare for all participants involved.”
It is the aim that all provinces adopt the Age Grade Law Variations - however, it is recognized that there are unique differences within each province and region. Over the course of the year, the Age Grade Law Variations Review Committee will continue to monitor the progress of various elements of the document with the aim of addressing any required alterations for 2021.
The updated Age Grade Law Variations document can be found here.
Unions, Clubs, coaches or players that have any questions regarding the Age Grade Law Variations, please contact:
Ryan Jones: Co-Chair, Age Grade Law Variations Review Committee (rjones@rugbyontario.com)
Nathan Abdelnour: Co-Chair, Age Grade Law Variations Review Committee (nabdelnour@rugby.ca)