The Expectations of Behaviour Guidelines are a simple outline for parents, teachers, coaches and players to ensure everyone is given the opportunity to enjoy the game to the maximum level. Rugby has always been a game that prides itself on fair play and enjoyment for all, so please adhere to these guidelines to ensure this continues.

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These guidelines have been developed to:

• Maintain the elements of enjoyment and satisfaction in rugby;
• Make adults aware that young people play to satisfy themselves and not necessarily to satisfy adults or members of their own peer group;
• Improve the physical fitness of youth by encouraging participation in rugby by making it attractive, safe and enjoyable for all young people; and
• Constantly remind administrators, coaches, teachers, referees and parents that rugby must be administered, taught and provided, for the good of those young people who wish to play the game. It is their game.

• Play for enjoyment, not just to please your parents, teacher or coach.
• Play by the laws of the game.
• Never argue with the referee’s decision. Let your captain or coach ask any necessary questions.
• Control your temper – no ‘mouthing off’.
• Work equally hard for yourself and for your team. Your team’s performance will benefit and so will your own.
• Be a good sport. Applaud all the good play, whether it is done by your team or your opponent.
• Shake hands with all of the opposing team at the conclusion of the match, and clap them off in the spirit of good sportsmanship.
• Treat all players as you yourself would like to be treated. Do not inter fere with, bully or take advantage of any player.
• Treat everyone equally regardless of sex, disability, ethnic origin or religion.
• Remember that the goals of the game are – to have fun, improve your skills and feel good.
• Co-operate with your coach, teacher, team mates, referee and opponents, for without them you do not have a game.

• Remember that young people are involved in Rugby for their enjoyment, not yours.
• Encourage your children to play by the laws.
• Teach young people that honest effort is as important as victor y so that the result of each game is accepted without undue disappointment.
• Remember that young people learn best by example. Applaud good play from both teams.
• Do not publicly question the referee’s judgement and never his/her honesty.
• Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from the game.
• Recognise the importance of volunteer coaches, teachers and referees. They give their time and resources to provide a game for young participants.

• Be reasonable in your demands on the young player’s time, energy and enthusiasm.
• Teach your players the laws of the game and for them to play within the laws.
• Ensure that all players get a game. The ‘just average’ players need and deserve equal time.
• Remember that young people play for fun and enjoyment and that winning is only a part of it. Never ridicule the players for making errors or losing a game.
• Be professional and accept responsibilities for your actions.
• Display high standards in language, behaviour, manner, dress, punctuality and preparation.
• Develop team respect for the ability of opponents, as well as the judgement of referees and opposing coaches.
• Discourage excessive talk on the field.