Code for Players;
- Play for enjoyment and become part of the rugby family
- Respect the ‘Game of Rugby’ and play within the Laws of the game
- Accept the referees’ decision and let your captain or coach ask any relevant questions
- Play with control. Do no lose your temper
- Always do your best and be committed to the game, your team and your club
- Be a ‘good sport’. Applaud all good play whether by your team or the opposition
- Respect your opponent. Treat all players as you would like to be treated. Do not ‘bully’ or take advantage of any player
- Rugby is a team sport and make sure you co-operate with your coach: team mates and members of your club
- Remember that the goals of the game are to have fun, improve your skills and feel good
- At the end of the match thank your opponents and the referee for the match
- Always remember that you owe a duty of care to your opponents. Tackle hard but fairly, do not intend to hurt your opponent
- Winning and losing is part of sport: Win with humility – lose with dignity
- As part of the team it is important that you attend training regularly and listen to your coach and help the team
- As a team sport it is important to understand that all members are important to the team
- Remember you are representing your team, club, family and the Game of Rugby.
Code for Parents;
- Remember, young people play rugby for their enjoyment, not only yours
- Encourage your child always play by the Laws of the Game
- Teach young children that honest endeavour is as important as winning, so that the result of each game is accepted without disappointment
- Help young people to work towards skill improvement and good sportsmanship
- Set a good example by applauding good play on both sides
- Never ridicule, humiliate or shout at young players for making a mistake or losing a match
- Do not place emphasis on winning at all costs
- Do not force an unwilling child to participate in the playing of rugby. If a child is to play he/she will do so in good time through your encouragement
- Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from rugby
- As a spectator do not use profane language or harass referees, coaches or players
- Do not publicly question referees’ judgement and never their honesty
- Recognise the value and importance of volunteer referees and coaches
- Identify and acknowledge the good qualities of the Game of Rugby and uphold these values
- Remember you and your child’s contribution to the Game of Rugby is very important to the Westport RFC and the IRFU and be proud of your contribution
- Understand the value of team sport and its importance