SIX-A-SIDE, one pass, six-tackle sets and quarters, rather than thirds, are just some of the changes set to be introduced to junior footy in a bid to boast participation rates across the region.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Country Rugby League regional manager Western, Peter Clarke said the changes, which will be implemented from the under 6s age group right across the state, have been backed by the Rams region.
They’ll come into play in 2017, meaning junior league stars of the future will get the benefit of longer periods of time with the ball in hand with little consequence for mistakes – a chance rule is also being introduced for forward passes, knock-ons and running into touch at an under 6s level.
Clarke said the main focus on the changes was to make the game more enjoyable for junior age groups, with the non-competitive nature of the competitions across the Western Division extending from under 6s through to under 9s.
“And in Group 14, they’re stretching it to include under 10s next season,” Clarke added.
MAJOR CHANGES for under 6s and under 7s:
- Six players per team, not eight;
- Eight minute quarters, not 10 minute thirds;
- One pass requirement, not two;
- Six tackles per set, not four;
- No scrums;
- Defenders stand 5m back;
- No conversions, no kicks in general play;
- Knock-on, forward pass, run into touch – chance rule (under 6s only);
“It’s more about encouraging kids to be part of our game at an early age, and making sure that time in the game is an enjoyable experience so the pathway into older age groups is clear,” he said.
Clarke said making the changes to junior league known now, five months out from the start of the season, would ensure there’s no excuses come kick-off.
In announcing the changes, the NRL added it will continue its policy of positive and appropriate off-field behaviour amongst parents, spectators and fellow participants.
"Children and young adults learn from those around them and we are committed to ensuring that those in our game, no matter what level and age, are respectful at all times," NRL chief of football Brian Canavan said.
Clarke echoed that sentiment.
“(Parents) can be (an issue). A lot of the time the trouble from the sidelines is because parents don’t know the rules. This is a means of making sure the communication is there,” he added.
Clarke was confident the changes, which filter up through the grades – at varied degrees - until international rules are applied in full foe the under 13s, would help facilitate junior league participation, which is still strong in the Western Rams area.
“In general, our numbers are steady, and certainly the growth of league tag has helped those numbers,” he said.
Nick McGrath
Editor, Central Western Daily
Editor, Central Western Daily
