The Good Player's Code

Players should be encouraged to:

1. Recognise and appreciate the efforts made by coaches, parents, match officials and administrators in providing the opportunity to play the game and enjoy the rugby environment.
2. Understand the values of loyalty and commitment to adults and team mates.
3. Recognise that every player has a right to expect their involvement in rugby to be safe and free from all types of abuse.
4. Understand that if an individual or group of players feel they are not being treated in a manner that is acceptable, then they should tell an adult either at the Club or outside of the game.
5. Play because they want to do so, not to please coaches or parents.
6. Remember that skill development, fun and enjoyment are the most important parts of the game.
7. Be attentive at all training and coaching sessions.
8. Work equally hard for themselves and their team - both will then benefit.
9. Recognise good play by all players on their team and by their opponents.
10. Be a sportsman - win with dignity, lose with grace.
11. Play to the IRB Laws of the Game and accept, without question, all referees’ decisions even if they appear to make a mistake.
12. Control their emotions. Verbal or physical abuse of team mates, opponents, coaches, match officials or spectators is not acceptable.
13. Treat all players, as they would like to be treated themselves. Do not interfere with, bully or take advantage of any player.

For further information on the interpretation of these rules, regulations and recommendations contact the Community Rugby and Operations Department at the RFU.