Optimum Sports Blog

So, your little one has joined their first rugby team. Congratulations! But now you don’t know where to start, from the rules of the game to sideline etiquette and the kit you now need to buy. Don’t worry, in this article, we will cover anything and everything you need to know about your little one’s new hobby, and you will be a rugby pro in no time!

What is the rugby team structure?

England rugby states that thousands volunteer every year in youth rugby. This usually involves volunteers in the following positions:

Head coach and coaches

Head coaches take charge of the overall team. Not only can they run training sessions, but they also plan every training and competition day! Whereas Coaches often take charge of training one or two different teams, such as Y5 and Y8.

First aider and safeguarding lead

First aiders are vital for contact sports, even just at training. First aiders will always have a recognisable first aid certificate. Similar to first aiders, safeguarding leads are a key component to keeping the team safe, just in a different way! They deal with all safeguarding concerns and make sure all safeguarding rules are being followed.

The need for reliable team communication:

A team requires open communication. Here’s why:

• Makes organising training and matches easier for the coaches.

• Allows schedule changes to be communicated quickly, reliably and more efficiently.

• Builds performance consistency since both parents and coaches are on the same page about a child’s progress in the team.

• Consistent communication can strengthen team culture, making sure everyone is involved and on the same page when it comes to the team.

• Offers maximum support for children who are a part of the team when it comes to their health and well-being.

The commitments rugby brings to parents.

Rugby involves a lot of commitments, not only time and money, but also effort!

It’s no secret that having a child who is part of a rugby team can take up a massive amount of your time. With at least one training session a week after school and often a match on weekends during the season, it can add a lot to parents’ plates. So, expecting this and being able to prepare is essential to avoiding parental burnout!

Next is the financial commitment, and kits aren’t the only thing you may have to pay for! There is also the practice fee and sometimes competition transportation to think about! Not preparing for this can lead to a big shock for new parents of little players!

Looking for affordable rugby gear? Run to our rugby collection! https://www.optimumsport.com/collections/rugby

The team culture

Rugby has one of the best team cultures out there. Here’s how to keep it that way.

Parents and supporters have way more impact on training and competition matches than you can imagine! If just one person is being negative, it can impact the players, the coaches, the game, and not to mention other people there to support the children! These situations can spiral quickly, which is why good pitch-side etiquette is important at all times.

Creating a safe environment for the children and staff (who are more than likely volunteers) keeps the game going. It makes sure the team can keep running safely and efficiently, and makes sure the people who give up their own time and money can keep being there for the children.

Being prepared is vital when enrolling your children in sports, especially one like rugby. Stay tuned for the next few blog posts, where we will cover everything you need to know in depth!