Minis & Juniors (Age 3–18)
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At Sleaford RFC we set high standards and continually invest in our facilities to benefit those who matter most – the children. We provide rugby opportunities for young people aged 3–18, delivered by qualified coaches in a safe, welcoming environment. Parents are warmly encouraged to stay and support at training and matches.
How Age Grade Rugby works
England Rugby’s Age Grade game is player-centred, development-driven and competition-supported. Children progress year-on-year with appropriate formats and laws so they learn safely and enjoy the sport for life.
Age bands: A player’s age grade is based on their age at midnight on 31 August at the start of the season; players move up from 1 August each year.
Half Game Rule: everyone named in the match-day squad should play at least half of the available game time in Age Grade rugby.
SRFC pathway (what to expect)
Rugby Toddle (Pre-School)
Fun, game-based sessions building core movement and ball skills through running, handling, evasion and support play.
U6–U8: Tag Rugby (non-contact)
A safe, mixed-gender format that develops core skills and game understanding without tackling.
U9–U10: Mini Rugby
The introduction of controlled contact (tackle) with simple set-piece elements. The emphasis remains on confidence, teamwork and safe technique.
U11–U12: Midi Rugby
Gradual progression of contact and set-piece (e.g., scrums) in line with the RFU Rules of Play for each age.
U13–U17: Junior Rugby
Continued development within age-appropriate laws towards the 15-a-side game, maintaining safety and welfare as the priority.
Girls’ rugby
Girls transition to girls-only rugby at U12 and then play in two-year bands: U14, U16 and U18. At U11 there is flexibility for girls to play mixed or girls-only rugby according to RFU guidance.
What to bring
- Gumshield (mouthguard): strongly recommended for any contact activity from U9+ (training and matches).
- Boots with compliant studs (World Rugby-approved), suitable clothing for weather, and a named water bottle.
Registration (parents/guardians)
We welcome players to come down and have a couple of taster sessions before committing to any cost.
All Age Grade players must be registered each season via the RFU’s Game Management System (GMS). New to the club? Please create a parent/guardian GMS account and register your child.
Player welfare
We follow RFU welfare guidance on contact load, appropriate training, concussion management and safe return-to-play. If you have any questions about safety or equipment, please speak to a coach or our safeguarding team.
Want the details for your child’s age group?
The RFU publishes specific Rules of Play for each age every season. See the links for your child’s band or ask a coach if you’re unsure which rules apply this year.
Find your age group’s Rules of Play
