Junior Rugby Coaches and Managers Update - June 2010

Here is another update on some important information from the Manawatu Rugby Union and Manawatu Junior Rugby Board:

1. Player, Coach and Spectator Conduct:

Unfortunately the MJRB and MRU is still receiving reports of incidents of inapproriate conduct at Junior Rugby games - predominately from spectators, but also in one very concerning case from a Junior Rugby Coach.
We reiterate that misconduct must not be tolerated. Team management must play a key role in the maintenance of a positive sideline culture. Coaches need to be supportive of each other not abusive or threatening. Where an issue cannot be resolved on match day, coaches need to report misconduct via their Club Convenors so that the MJRB and MRU can take appropriate action.

2. Boot Checks:

Last weekend a player received a serious injury resulting from a gash caused by a boot stud. This occurred despite a boot check by the referee. Studs and particularly moulded 'blade' type cleats do not have to be very sharp to cause a laceration. We ask that in addition to thorough boot checks being made by referees, that team coaches request that players and their parents check boot studs prior to every game, and file off any signs of a sharp edge.

3. Fending in the U8 Grade:

Coaches and referees please be vigilant of fending in this grade, and coach it out of the game. The best way to do so is to coach players to run with the ball in 2 hands. This will encourage them to pass more as well. There is no fending allowed in the Under 8 grade.

4. Balls and tickets for Junior players:

In the pre-season we promoted that each kid would get a ball, a mouthguard and a ticket to a Turbos Game. Unfortunately we have been let down badly by the company that is providing the balls. The latest date of arrival that we have been advised of is 16th June. Please let your players know that they will get their ball as soon as they arrive. The tickets will be for the ITM Cup game Turbos v Makos, Sunday 3rd October. Only registered players will get tickets. These will be distributed to Junior Convenors well in advance. Put the date in your diaries and get you whole team and club along to the game. There will be some special activities for the kids.

5. Rippa for Under 7s:

Thanks to Endeavour Community Trust the MRU has received funding and been able to purchase a set of Rippa gear for each participating team. These are now available for collection from the MRU office by club convenors. Under 7 teams will commence playing Rippa on 19th June.

6. Under 12 grade - ammended format:

There has been an ammendment to the format of this grade. This has occurred because of a concern in the vast difference of ability between teams in this grade. It is hoped that by matching teams up with those of like ability in small pools of 4 teams, that each team can have 3 very competitive fixtures in which to develop skills and gain in confidence in preparation for playing against stronger teams. Following this, there will be championship rounds for the Top 6 teams and the Bottom 6 teams. These will be comprised as follows:

Top 6: 4 teams in Green Pool + teams ranked 1 and 2 in White Pool
Bottom 6: 4 Teams in Black pool + teams ranked 1 and 2 in White Pool

There will then be play off games 1v2, 3v4, 5v6 in each pool on the last day of the season.

GOOD LUCK WITH YOUR GAMES THIS WEEKEND!