" Rugby is valued as a sport for men and women, boys and
girls. It builds teamwork, understanding, co-operation and
respect for fellow athletes. Its cornerstones are as they
always have been: the pleasure of participating; the courage
and skill which the game demands; the love of a team sport
that enriches the lives of all involved; and the lifelong
friendships forged through a shared interest in the game.
It is because of, not despite, Rugby′s intensely physical
and athletic characteristics that such great camaraderie
exists before and after matches."
From the IRB Playing charter ∼ Conclusion
This statement encapsulates the ethos of Rugby Union
which is now played by more than three million people in
over one hundred countries. With the popularity of the
game at an all time global high, it is worth reminding
ourselves of the physical nature of the game and the role
we all have in preparing to play and upholding the laws.
"Rugby Union is a sport which involves physical contact.
Any sport involving physical contact has inherent dangers.
It is very important that players play the game in
accordance with the laws of the game and be mindful of
the safety of themselves and others. It is the responsibility
of those who coach or teach the game to ensure that
players are prepared in a manner which ensures
compliance with the laws of the game in accordance with
safe practice.
It is the duty of the referee to apply fairly all of the laws of
the game in every match. It is the duty of the Unions to
ensure that the game at every level is conducted in
accordance with disciplined and sporting behaviour. This
principle cannot be upheld solely by the referee; its
observance rests on Unions, affiliated bodies and clubs. "
From the IRB Laws of the Game ∼ Foreword
The IRB Rugby Ready programme follows in the footsteps
of the highly successful Rugby Smart and Smart Rugby
initiatives from New Zealand and Australia. This
programme is not intended to replace these initiatives but
to provide a global resource for stakeholders around the
world. Implementation strategies and policies are for
individual Unions to determine.
Everybody involved in organising and playing Rugby has a
duty of care in relation to the players. The IRB Rugby
Ready programme is intended to raise awareness of good
practice and help stakeholders manage the inherent risks of
a contact sport by putting appropriate safeguards in place.
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