Below is a summary of each age group. For full details of the rules for all age groups, check out Sydney Juniors Rugby Union https://www.sjru.com.au/junior-rugby/. The complete set of competition rules for 2019 is available here: https://www.sjru.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/sydney-juniors-competition-playing-rules-2019-version-16-final.pdf
Under 6s
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First year of rugby union with a strong emphasis on participation, enjoyment and making new friends from the district.
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7 players on the field at a time.
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There is no tackle or ruck/maul but a two handed grab low (tag) on the shorts.
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Games are played on a quarter of full field.
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Playing time is 2 x 10 mins.
Under 7s
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The children continue for another year with the introduction of non contested three person scrums and two person line outs.
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The development is centred around catch and pass and again with a strong emphasis on participation and having fun.
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7 players on the field at a time.
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Games are played on a quarter pitch size.
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Playing time is 2 x 15 mins.
Under 8s
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First introduction of tackle and the ruck contest.
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7 players on the field at a time.
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Games are played on half size field with more room to run.
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Playing time is 2 x 15 mins.
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The safe practices of the tackle and ruck maul are taught by "Smart Rugby" accredited coaches.
Under 9s
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Whilst still on half size field, the team increases to 10 with 5 person scrum and 5 backs.
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More positional play is encouraged but with uncontested scrum and line out.
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Playing time is 2 x 20 mins.
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The opportunity remains for everyone to safely try all positions on the field.
Under 10s
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The games are played on Sundays with grading for the first time.
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The competition covers the Sydney Metropolitan area on a home and away basis.
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Games are competitive scrums and line outs with 12 players on each team.
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The field is almost full field, only 10m narrower (5m each side).
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Playing time is 2 x 20 mins.
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Conversions, kicks in general play with semi and grand finals are other changes to the first year of juniors.
Under 11s
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Same parameters as the U10s.
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The teams are regraded again to keep competitions fair and safe across the grades.
Under12s - U16s
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15 players on the field.
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Skills focus is on positional awareness.
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Full size field.
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Playing time is 2 x 25 mins.