Law Changes

Changes to junior rugby laws have been developed to provide a clear development pathway that supports skill growth, confidence, and enjoyment, while minimising early specialisation and promoting overall player wellbeing.

Most notably, these changes will be structured around three distinct development blocks, with each block focusing on progressively introducing and developing specific core skills whilst building upon prior learning. The three development blocks include:

• Under 8s: Tackle and tackle contest
• Under 9s - Under 10s: Scrum
• Under 11s - Under 12s: Lineout

This approach boosts player engagement by allowing more time and exposure to key areas of the game, helping players build confidence and capability before progressing to more complex forms of rugby as they grow.

A summary of the law changes by age grade can be found below.