Junior Club Rugby Information
“The purpose of North Harbour Junior Rugby is to give all players the opportunity to participate against others of a similar age and size and to assist in the progressive development of the necessary physical, social, emotional and mental skills as a foundation for enjoyment and continued participation in the game”.
NHRU Junior Rugby is played in accordance with IRB & NZRU “Laws of the Game” incorporating the Small Blacks Development Model guidelines.
Regular Saturday Junior Club Rugby is run in a non-competition format, meaning that while individuals, teams and clubs may record tries, conversions, wins, losses and points tables, the Union does not collect and collate scores, keep tables or team placing.
Players and coaches should strive to win, however it is the responsibility of coaches, referees, parents and supporters to assist all players in developing the fundamental skills required to play the game safely, with enjoyment and in accordance with the Laws of the Game
F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions)
Where is my closest club?
Click here to downlaod a Map of the North Harbour Province and Club Locations
For more information on a specific club, check out the Club Websites
How can I Register?
Just head along to a club registration evening - Click here to download Junior Club registration information.
Do I need a uniform?
Each club has its own uniform. Clubs will supply team jerseys with players required to supply their own, boots, mouthguards, shorts and socks. These are usually available at the club for an affordable price.
How much does it cost?
This varies between clubs, but fees for the season are usually between $50-$70.
When and where are trainings and games?
Games are played on Saturday mornings at 8.30am (rippa), 9.30am and 10.40 am. There a balance of home and away fixtures and each club has a home ground and other back-up fields in close proximity. Teams train after school (between 3.30pm – 6.00pm) at one of the clubs grounds or a local school.
How long is the season?
The season runs from April to the last Saturday in August. Games are not played on public holiday weekends or on middle Saturdays of School Holidays.
Is rugby safe?
Rugby Union is a sport which involves physical contact and any sport involving physical contact has inherent dangers. Mouthguards are compulsory and all coaches and referees must attend training courses held by the North Harbour Rugby Union to ensure they are qualified and understand the principles of safe and correct technique.
What is Rippa Rugby?
Rippa rugby is the non-contact version of rugby, played for 5 & 6 year olds and at Primary Schools to allow kids to learn the skills of the game in a safe, fun environment
What is a local module?
Local modules are used in Rippa rugby to reduce travel time and expense and help parents get to other activities during the day. A group of 2 or 3 clubs will play at a centrally located venue each week of the season.
How do I become a coach or referee?
North Harbour provides education and development for anyone interested in getting involved, just sign up at your local club.
What are the grades?
|
Grade |
Year Born |
Age at Jan 1st 2010 |
Weight not to exceed |
Specials |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
J1 |
1998 |
11 |
Open |
70 |
|
J2 |
1999 |
10 |
Open |
60 |
|
J3 |
2000 |
9 |
Open |
55 |
|
J4 |
2001 |
8 |
Open |
50 |
|
J5 |
2002 |
7 |
Open |
45 |
|
J6 |
2003 |
6 |
Open |
40 |
|
J7 RIPPA |
2003 |
6 |
Open |
N/A |
|
J8 RIPPA |
2004 |
5 and under |
Open |
N/A |
The Junior Grades Chart is designed to be as inclusive as possible, without putting player safety at risk by allowing large size disparities.
Weight standards are based on historical data and growth charts for each age and provides for a 5kg increase each season.
Each grade is designed for players of a median age/weight and also includes older/lighter players and younger/heavier players in an effort to balance size, skill and maturity.
Grade eligibility is determined firstly by a player’s age and then their weight. E.g. a 9 year old can play J5, J4 or J3 depending on their weight.
Specials: In all grades players in the youngest age bracket are able to be open weight. Open weight players who exceed the ’specials’ weights for any grade during the season are to be known and registered as a ‘Special’ and are subject to a number of guidelines to ensure the safety and development of all players.