Guide to Good Rugby for Parents

Parents are encouraged to:

• Be familiar with the coaching and training programme in order that they ensure that their child is fully involved and the coaches are aware of their responsibility.
• Be familiar with the coaching and training programme in order that they ensure that their child is fully involved and the coaches are aware of their responsibility.
• Be aware that the club has a duty of care and therefore, where appropriate assist coaches with the supervision of the young players, particularly where numbers are large and there is a need to transport players to away games.
• Be involved with club activities and share your expertise. Share concerns, if you have them, with club officials.
• Be familiar with the 'Good Coaches' guide. In particular:
• Coaches should recognise the importance of fun and enjoyment when coaching young players. Coaches should keep winning and losing in perspective, encouraging young players to behave with dignity in all circumstances.

• Remember that young people play rugby for their own enjoyment, not that of their parents.
• Encourage young people to play - do not force them.
• Focus on the young player’s efforts rather than winning or losing.
• Be realistic about young player’s ability, do not push them towards a level that they are not capable of achieving.
• Provide positive feedback both in training and during the game.
• Remember that persistent, negative messages will adversely affect the players and referee's performance and attitude.
• Always support the Hastings & Bexhill Rugby Club in their efforts to eradicate coarse and abusive behaviour from the game.
• Never verbally abuse young players, match officials, fellow spectators or coaches.
• Remember young people learn much by example.
• Always show appreciation of good play by ALL young players both from your club and the opposition.
• Respect decisions made by the match officials and encourage the young players to do likewise. Remember that they are volunteers providing an opportunity for youngsters to play rugby.

REMEMBER – IT’S ONLY A GAME!

If you have any complaint regarding the behaviour of any person concerned with the care/training, etc., of Children in this Club please contact any our Child Protection Officer or any other Club Official immediately.