This approved evidence-based framework forms a crucial part of SARU’s long term player development plan. It is specifically designed to encourage young boys and girls to enjoy rugby in a safe, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate manner. The primary objective is to introduce children to rugby through enjoyable, game-based formats that build fundamental movement and pre-contact rugby skills, confidence, and a lifelong love for the game, all while preparing them appropriately for the eventual introduction of tackle rugby.

The framework, detailed below, was developed by the SA Rugby Participation and Development Department in consultation with the Tackle Age Task Team, which included diverse stakeholders such as the Chairperson of the SA Schools Rugby Association. It aligns fully with the nationally approved tackle age framework and international best practice. South Africa was the only high-performance rugby union without an aligned tackle age, and we are delighted to now have a clear, consistent approach.

Implementation is absolutely crucial, and we have agreed on the way forward with the excellent assistance of the SARU Referee Department.

Age-Appropriate Formats for Boys and Girls

To ensure consistency, safety, and clarity across all schools and clubs, the following formats apply:

  • Ages 6 and 7 (U7 and younger): Tag Rugby Variations
  • Age 8 (U8): SA RUGBY T1 Rugby (non-contact).
  • Ages 9 and older (U9+): Introduction of tackle rugby, following appropriate preparation.

This staged approach ensures that children develop the necessary skills, confidence, and physical literacy before being exposed to contact.

Why SA RUGBY T1 Rugby?

SA RUGBY T1 Rugby is a modified version of World Rugby’s globally endorsed non-contact game, specifically designed for all ages, sizes, and abilities, including children and first-time players.

Key features of SA RUGBY T1 Rugby include:

  • It closely resembles rugby union and is easy for teachers, coaches, parents, and players to understand.
  • It is inclusive, catering for all shapes, sizes, and abilities.
  • It is fun, fast-paced, and engaging, promoting enjoyment and participation.
  • It retains the core elements of rugby union, including:
    • Scrums
    • Lineouts
    • A breakdown area
    • Kicking

In simple terms, SA RUGBY T1 Rugby is rugby as we know it — without the contact. This allows children to learn the laws, positioning, teamwork, and decision-making skills of the game in a safe environment. For your convenience, various resources are available to download below.

Teachers and coaches are strongly encouraged to familiarise themselves with these resources to ensure consistent and effective implementation across all junior rugby environments. If you have any questions or require clarity, please do not hesitate to contact Nico Serfontein, Senior Manager: Community Rugby Development, at NicoS@sarugby.co.za.

Preparing for Contact: The Rugby Contact Programme

While tackling is not permitted before the U9 age group, preparation for contact begins earlier through The Rugby Contact Programme.

This programme is designed to ensure that when children are eventually introduced to tackling and other contact skills, they do so with confidence, correct technique, and a reduced risk of injury.

When is the programme delivered?

The standardised programme must be:

  • Introduced during the second half of the U8 season, and
  • As part of a six-week U9 pre-season readiness block.

What does the programme focus on?

The programme develops the foundational movement and physical skills required for safe contact, including:

  • Falling and landing safely
  • Rolling and body control
  • Wrestling and grappling in controlled environments
  • Bracing and absorbing contact
  • Balance, posture, and body alignment

These skills are essential building blocks for tackling, ball-carrying, and contesting at the breakdown in later years.

Why This Approach Matters

South Africa now boasts a clear, nationally aligned pathway for the introduction of tackle rugby. This approach:

  • Improves player safety
  • Enhances enjoyment and confidence
  • Supports long-term player development
  • Encourages player retention
  • Ensures consistency across schools, clubs, and provinces

Research, international experience, and local stakeholder feedback all demonstrate that delaying tackling — while emphasising fun, skill development, and preparation — leads to better outcomes for young players. We are very optimistic about the positive impact this will have on the future of South African rugby.

Key Messages for Teachers and Coaches

  • No tackling before U9.
  • Focus on fun, skills, and confidence in the younger age groups.
  • Use Tag Rugby (U7 and below) and SA Rugby T1 Rugby (U8) as intended teaching tools.
  • Deliver The Rugby Contact programme as prescribed.
  • Prepare children properly so that their first experience of tackle rugby is safe, positive, and well supported.