TRY - Youth Program

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.

Players from 5 to 15 years old.


Fall: Early September to November


Spring: Early May to  July. 


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 U8, U10, U12; Girls & Boys at U14.
  • 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

    U8 (Co‑ed)

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

    U10 (Co‑ed)

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

    U12 (Girls & Boys)

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

    U14 (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.
    • U14 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 U12/U12 is scored.
    • Jamborees and league fixtures by division.

    U14 Select‑Side

    • Coach‑nominated (1–2 per team); due Sept 19.
    • Match on/around Oct 25 (subject to nominations).
    • Follows World Rugby U15 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.