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For parents

Safety first: how our books introduce rugby to young players

3 min read 15 October 2026

Page from Meet The Rugby Playbook showing both teams shaking hands after the game

Parents often ask how we keep rugby safe for beginners. Here is what we do.

Start without contact

In our free starter book there is no tackling. The game is Coach Dan's training game with tag belts, so there is no contact. Defenders stop the ball carrier by pulling a tag: no grabbing, no pushing.

Notes for grown-ups

Pages that teach a rule carry a Coach's tip for grown-ups, with the wording of World Rugby's laws, so you can explain it with confidence.

Rules for your country

Junior rugby rules vary by country, age and club. Our tackling book, Tackling the Safe Way, will follow New Zealand Rugby's junior rules.

The basics at home

  • Use a clear, flat space with room to move.
  • Warm up first.
  • Stay nearby while your child plays.

Our books are a learning aid, not a replacement for a qualified coach and adult supervision.

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