Tag Rugby (An Overview of the Rules.)
Tag rugby is a non-contact version of rugby which is ideally suited for younger age groups.
Its safe, non-contact nature, combined with the fun and vibrance of the sport, has meant that mini tag is now the RFU’s official version of rugby for under-7s and under-8s.
Tag rugby rules are designed to ensure safety at all times.
The Object of the Game.
The object of the game is to score a try by placing the ball with downward pressure behind the opponents’ goal line. A try is worth five points.
For safety reasons, a player must not dive over the line to ground the ball.
Passing the Ball.
A free pass, from the centre of the pitch, is used to start the match at the beginning of each half and to restart the match after a try is scored. It is also used at the side of the pitch when the ball goes into touch and from where the referee makes a mark when an infringement has taken place.
The ball can be passed only sideways or backwards through air, not handed to another player.
If the ball is handed to another player or passed or knocked forwards to the ground then a free pass is awarded to the non offending team. If the ball is pulled from the ball carrier’s grasp, a free pass is awarded to the ball carrier’s team.
Tagging
The tag belt is a belt worn around the waist to which two ‘ribbons’ (tags) are attached by Velcro. One tag hangs down each side. The belt is worn on the outside of the clothing.
A tag is the removal of one of the two tags from the ball carrier’s belt. Only the ball carrier can be tagged. The ball carrier can run and dodge potential taggers but cannot fend them off using their hands or the ball, and cannot guard or shield their tags in any way. The ball cannot be pulled or wrestled from the ball carrier’s hands at any time.
When the ball carrier is tagged, the ball must be passed to a team mate within three seconds (including stopping time). The ball carrier should attempt to stop as soon as possible - within three strides is a reasonable guide for referees, but the ball can be passed in the act of stopping.
Players are, however, only allowed one step to score a try after being tagged.
After the ball has been passed, the player must go to the tagger, retrieve his / her tag and place it back on his / her belt before rejoining play.
