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