Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) Youth Code of Conduct - West Wicklow Rugby Football Club (U13–U18 Youth Players)
Aligned with IRFU Governance Guidelines
1. Purpose and scope
The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to ensure that all Youth players (U13–U18) participate in rugby in a safe, respectful and positive environment. Players are expected to engage in rugby for enjoyment, personal development and teamwork, while contributing to a positive experience for all involved in the game.
This Code applies to all Youth players (U13–U18) of West Wicklow Rugby Football Club. West Wicklow Rugby Football Club promotes the core values of rugby as defined by the IRFU:
● Respect
● Integrity
● Teamwork
● Enjoyment
● Discipline
● Sportsmanship
The Club recognises that younger players may require guidance and support in fully understanding and applying these expectations.
This Code represents a shared responsibility between players, coaches, and parents / guardians. Parents / guardians are expected to actively support and reinforce positive behaviour, values and understanding of the Code both within and outside club activities.
While the Club is responsible for setting standards, coaching, and managing discipline within rugby activities, parents / guardians are expected to support adherence to this Code and the values of the game.
2. Behaviour, Respect and Team Ethos
All players are required to:
● Treat teammates, coaches, referees, volunteers and opponents with respect at all times.
● Respect the rules and spirit of the game.
● Accept the decisions of match officials.
● Support and encourage teammates at all times.
● Avoid any behaviour that may bring the Club or the game into disrepute.
Players must understand that rugby is a team sport. Individual performance must always support the team structure and collective effort, with players expected to prioritise team success over personal recognition.
Players are expected to represent West Wicklow Rugby Football Club positively at all times, including during training, matches, travel and all club-related events.
3. Teamwork and Inclusion
Players must:
● Include all teammates in activities and team environments.
● Support players of all abilities and backgrounds.
● Encourage teammates during both success and setbacks.
● Promote a positive and unified team culture.
The following behaviours are strictly prohibited:
● Bullying
● Cyberbullying
● Harassment
● Discrimination
● Intimidation
● Exclusion of any player
4. Safety and Welfare
Players are required to:
● Follow all safety instructions issued by coaches and match officials.
● Participate in a safe and controlled manner at all times.
● Avoid dangerous play or behaviour that could cause injury.
● Report any injury immediately to a coach or team official.
● Inform coaches if they feel unwell or are unable to safely participate.
Players owe a duty of care to opponents and must tackle and compete fairly, with no intent to cause injury.
Any concerns relating to welfare, bullying, abuse, inappropriate behaviour, or safeguarding must be reported to a coach, Club Welfare Officer or another trusted club official.
5. Discipline and Sportsmanship
Players are expected to:
● Play fairly and within the laws of the game.
● Demonstrate discipline during training and matches.
● Accept victory with humility and defeat with respect.
● Shake hands with opponents and match officials after games.
Unsporting behaviour, abusive language or aggressive conduct will not be tolerated.
6. Social Media and Online Behaviour
Players must conduct themselves responsibly online at all times. Players are required to:
● Show respect for teammates, coaches, referees and opponents.
● Avoid posting negative, abusive or inappropriate content.
● Refrain from sharing images or content that may harm individuals or damage the reputation of the Club.
Online bullying or harassment will be treated as seriously as misconduct occurring in person.
7. Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Use
In line with IRFU and Club guidelines:
● Alcohol is strictly prohibited for all underage players at club activities.
● Smoking, vaping and the use of illegal substances are not permitted.
● Players must behave responsibly at all times when representing the Club.
Any behaviour involving prohibited substances will be treated as a serious breach of this Code.
8. Breaches of Code
Where this Code of Conduct is not adhered to, the Club reserves the right to take appropriate disciplinary action. Possible actions include:
● Verbal warning or discussion with the player.
● Notification of parents/guardians.
● Temporary suspension from training or matches.
● Referral to the Club Committee for further disciplinary action.
All disciplinary procedures will be carried out in line with Club safeguarding and disciplinary policies, and in accordance with IRFU guidelines.