Respect Rugby – Code of Conduct

At Blue Mountains Junior Rugby Club, we expect every player, parent, coach, and supporter to uphold the standards of behaviour that make rugby such a great game.

We are a proud community club — and with that comes the shared responsibility to represent our Blue Tongues family with respect, integrity, and pride.

By being a member of our club, you accept these expectations and understand that everyone is measured against them.

Respect Rugby Framework

We follow Rugby Australia’s “Respect Rugby” model — a best-practice guide designed to ensure rugby remains safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone involved.

📄 Click here to read the full Respect Rugby document.

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⚙️ Team & Game Protocols

 

Before Kick-off

• Coaches introduce themselves to their opposition and the match referee.

• Players line up on the field and shake hands with their opponents.

• Teams must arrive at the field prior to scheduled kick-off.

 

At the End of the Game

• All players shake hands with each other.

• Captains shake hands with the match referee.

• Both teams give three cheers for their opponents.

• The entire playing group gives three cheers for the referee and touch judges.

• Coaches shake hands with opposition coaches and the referee.

• The referee is invited to attend any after-match functions.

 

Players – Expected Behaviour

• Be a good sport — show humility in victory and grace in defeat.

• Respect the referee’s decisions; if clarification is needed, ask your captain to speak at an appropriate time.

• Play to the best of your ability within the laws and spirit of the game.

• Control your temper — no physical or verbal abuse.

• Treat everyone equally regardless of ability, gender, culture, religion, or background.

• Evaluate your own performance honestly and be open to feedback.

• Show respect for teammates, coaches, match officials, and opponents at all times.

 

Coaches – Expected Behaviour

• Lead by example and set the highest standards of conduct.

• Give all participants a fair go, regardless of ability, background, or gender.

• Never ridicule or yell at players or match officials for mistakes.

• Follow Rugby Australia’s Medical and Safety Recommendations and ensure all players do the same.

• Speak with referees only in a calm and positive manner, and never during or immediately after the match.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the laws and coaching practices.

• Promote sportsmanship, discipline, and respect in every aspect of coaching.

• Continuously evaluate your own performance and seek to improve.

 

Spectators & Parents – Expected Behaviour

• Be a positive supporter — applaud good play from all teams.

• Respect the decisions of referees and coaches.

• Help eliminate verbal and physical abuse from the game.

• Accept that everyone makes mistakes — do not ridicule or yell at players, coaches, or officials.

• Follow the directions of the Ground Marshal at all times.

• Remain outside the playing enclosure during matches.

• Make visiting teams feel welcome at home games and be gracious guests when away.

 

Club Committee Members – Expected Behaviour

• Represent the club with honesty, fairness, and professionalism.

• Ensure all members are aware of the Code of Conduct and Conditions of Entry.

• Oversee and support the training of players, coaches, and Ground Marshals in their responsibilities.

• Monitor behaviour for breaches and take action where needed.

• Promote fair play and display the standards expected of others.

• Support initiatives that improve coaching, officiating, and player welfare.

• Uphold a culture of respect, accountability, and community spirit.

 

Our Standard, Our Pride

At Blue Mountains Junior Rugby Club, respect is more than a policy — it’s who we are.
We’re proud to uphold the true spirit of rugby, both on and off the field, every single week.