TRY Rugby Colorado — Youth (8U–14U)

TRY — Youth Program

Safe, age‑appropriate rugby across Colorado — aligned with USA Rugby & World Rugby.

TRY Rugby is Rugby Colorado’s K–8th grade youth program that introduces and develops players in a safe, age-appropriate 7-on-7 format. It’s development-first—heavy on reps, skills, and fun—so new and returning players build confidence before making the transition to high school rugby.

Program Objectives
  • Consistent, age‑based 7v7 competition (8U–14U).
  • Aligned with USA Rugby & World Rugby regulations.
  • Player safety, coaching standards, & inclusive participation.
  • Tier 1 opportunities at 14U (Select‑Side).
Who Can Join?
  • Co‑ed 8U, 10U, 12U; Girls & Boys at 14U.
  • Eligibility based on age as of Sept 1; waivers available in specific cases.
  • Pathways to high school rugby.
Governance & Compliance
  • USA Rugby registration for players, coaches, and admins.
  • Minimum L1 coach for contact; SafeSport required.
  • Annual renewal: opens Sept 1; background checks included.

Age Divisions & Field Specs

8U (Co‑ed)

  • 7v7 Flag • Ball: Size 3
  • Field: 40×25m • Try: 5m
  • No rucks/mauls/scrums/lineouts

10U (Co‑ed)

  • 7v7 Tackle • Ball: Size 3
  • Field: 50×40m • Try: 5m
  • 3v3 uncontested scrums; no kicking

12U (Girls & Boys)

  • 7v7 Tackle • Ball: Size 4
  • Field: 60×40m • Try: 5–7m
  • 3v3 scrums (≤1m); kicking allowed

14U (Girls & Boys)

  • 7v7 Tackle • Ball: Size 4
  • Field: 70×50m • Try: 5–7m
  • Contested scrums; lifting in lineouts

Fall — Developmental (Tier 2)

  • All divisions play developmental matches.
  • 14U Select‑Side (Tier 1) showcase; scored.
  • Match length: 2×7‑min halves; rolling subs.

Spring/Summer — Tiered Play

  • Tier 1 (competitive) & Tier 2 (developmental) at 12U & 14U.
  • Only Tier 1 at 12U/14U is scored.
  • Jamborees and league fixtures by division.

14U Select‑Side

  • Coach‑nominated (1–2 per team); due Sept 19.
  • Match on/around Oct 25 (subject to nominations).
  • Follows World Rugby 15U guidelines.

Player Safety & Match‑Day Standards

  • Max 90 minutes of total match play per day (≤19U).
  • ≥60 minutes rest between games at jamborees.
  • Heat/Weather: follow WR & CDC guidelines; lightning = 30‑min rule.
  • Concussions: “Recognise & Remove”; same‑day no‑return; medical clearance required for future play.
  • Athletic Trainers at sanctioned matches; clear field access.
  • Roster check before kickoff; only registered players may participate.

Registration

  • USA Rugby membership (incl. SafeSport) renews Sept 1.
  • 7s coaches/admins: register after Sept 1 and before first tournament.
  • 15s coaches/admins: register by Feb 1.

Coaching Requirements

  • At least one Level 1 certified coach at all contact practice/match.
  • All coaches SafeSport certified; continuing ed every 2 years.

Code of Conduct

  • All coaches sign the Rugby Colorado Code of Conduct before season.
  • Mandatory reporting to USA Rugby or U.S. Center for SafeSport.

Forms & Links

  • Age‑Grade Eligibility Chart (Appendix A)
  • Waiver Request, Injury Report, Match Roster (Appendix B)
  • USA Rugby / World Rugby resources

Note: Club admins receive compliance lists by Sept 15 (7s) and Feb 1 (15s); non‑compliance triggers a 3‑day correction window.

Contact

Email: info@rugbycolorado.org • Web: rugbycolorado.org

Ready to play?
Register your team or find a local club today.
© 2025 Rugby Colorado • TRY Youth Program. Aligned with USA Rugby & World Rugby guidelines.

TRY Rugby is Rugby Colorado’s K–8 youth program that introduces and develops players in a safe, age-appropriate 7-on-7 format. It’s development-first—heavy on reps, skills, and fun—so new and returning players build confidence before making the transition to high school rugby.