Club Policies

The Hayes RFC RFU Code of Conduct program forms an important part of Community Rugby's drive towards supporting clubs to improve their provision of rugby for young people. In association with Sport England and the 'Clubmark' scheme, the RFU aim is to set policies and standards of quality control that will produce quality clubs across the country.

Parents, coaches, players’ code of conduct

Rugby is a game of long traditions which have developed over time into a number of values that guide the way the game is played and how players, coaches, officials and supporters conduct themselves.

At its core, rugby is a physical game and a fundamental value is one of respect - for opponents, teammates and officials. Rugby for the vast majority remains a sport played for enjoyment. As such, other core values we aspire to are firm and inclusive. You will find that values embedded in the codes of conduct and the terms and conditions below.

Parents' Code
Always be aware of the Club and RFU’s policy on child protection.
Employ best practice at all times.
Do not force an unwilling child to participate - it’s supposed to be for them, and you may put them off rugby forever.
Encourage your child to understand and play within the rules.
Teach your child that taking part and trying your best are more important than winning.
Focus your child on practicing their skills, sportsmanship and being part of a team. Winning isn't everything and not everyone can score the winning try.
Support and encourage your child - never criticize them for making mistakes. Console them for losing, but encourage them to try harder next time.
Set an example for sportsmanship - applaud good play by all.
Never publicly criticize a referee or linesman - there is no place for 'touchline rage' in rugby.
Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from children's sport.
Report anything to the Child Protection Officer or Chairman.
Help the club function properly by turning up on time with the appropriate kit. Be prepared to help out if asked.
Support your coaches - they are giving up their time to train your child. If you have any issues with the way a coach is performing, talk to them first. Refer any issues to an Officer of the Club.
Coaches' Code
Don't overload young players with demands, technical information and tactics - remember they are children and they are playing rugby for fun.
Don't over play the better players - include everyone.
Players develop at different times and in different ways - make allowances for their physical, emotional and mental maturity and development.
Winning isn't everything - teach your players to enjoy taking part and performing to the best of their ability. Encourage each player to reach his or her potential.
Never abuse, yell, criticism or ridicule children for making mistakes or losing a game.
Be organised - establish a structure for the season, prepare a coaching plan for each session, have the appropriate kit. Above all, communicate to players, parents and fellow coaches to set expectations.
Make sure players develop an understanding of the rules and laws of the game, that they respect opponents, teammates, coaches and officials.
Never question an official's judgement or honesty.
Ensure players and parents behavior is appropriate and in keeping with the spirit of the game and the expectations of the Club.
Players' Code
Play to enjoy rugby - always try your best to improve your skills and play well.
Play within the rules and laws of the game.
Never argue with referees or coaches - their decision is final, (even if you think that they are wrong). You never see a referee change their mind do you?
Rugby is a team game - do your best for your team mates and don't try to grab all that glory for yourself.
Don't show off, lose your cool, pick on other players or generally misbehave - it's not part of rugby.
If you lose, accept it with good grace and try harder next time.
Respect good play - from opponents or your team.
Help team mates, opponents, coaches and officials - you can't play rugby on your own.
The codes of conduct above set out the values and behaviors we aspire to.

HAYES RUGBY FOOTBALL CLUB