Player Welfare
Rugby is a physical sport, but a sport that delivers significant social and health benefits. Player welfare is a top priority for our club along with the SJRU and education of the best-possible techniques to train and play is important for being physically and mentally prepared.
You also need to understand how to play safely. ARU, NSWRU and SJRU rugby programmes educate, aid and support players, coaches, match officials and Unions on the importance of sufficient preparation for training and playing in order for Rugby to be played and enjoyed while reducing the risk of injury.
Smart Rugby
Smart Rugby is compulsory for all coaches and match officials participating in rugby where there is tackling (U8s and above). The Smart Rugby course is an online module designed to ensure coaches and officials are competent and understand the areas of tackle, preparation for contact, scrummaging and foul play. The certification of Smart Rugby is valid for two years.
Concussion
Players, parents, coaches and officials need to act in the best interest of player safety and welfare at all times. Taking responsibility for the recognition , removal and referral of players to a medical doctor and then ensuring concussion is appropriately managed is fundamental to the ARU Concussion Guidance. It is recommended that all play ers who suffer a concussion seek the highest level of medical care reasonably available to ensure concussion is managed appropriately.
Size For Age
New size for age dispensation for junior rubgy was rolled out across Australia in 2018. Junior players between 10 and 15 who fall outside a specific height and weight range, below or above will be independently assessed to determine which age group they should play in.
Insurance
The ARU, in conjunction with Gow-Gates and QBE, provides the rugby community with a first-class sports insurance program while maintaining the affordability of registration. The ARU encourages all players and officials to take out their own private health insurance, over and above the coverage provided by the scheme.
Member Protection Policy
All those associated with Rugby are covered by the Member Protection Policy. This policy aims to ensure the Australian Rugby Union’s core values, good reputation and positive behaviours and attitudes are maintained.
Medical Policy
This Policy has been developed by the ARU with the objective of protecting the health and well-being, and encouraging safe and healthy practices, for all Participants.
Serious Injury Policy
The ARU has established a Serious Injury Protocol and Report for use by all Rugby Bodies – Clubs, Schools and Unions who participate in the game of Rugby.