Old Yardleians RFC Youth Section 2016/2017 Handbook

1. Players Name _____________________________________ Old Yardleians RFC Youth Section 2016/2017 Handbook RFU Core Values – TREDS T = Teamwork Playing and Training together as part of team, collaborative working and sharing of information in order to achieve a set purpose/direction. R = Respect Show Respect to other team members, club coaches, club officials, volunteers, referees and visiting clubs members and officials. E = Enjoyment Participation/engagement in training and playing in order to succeed and give satisfaction resulting in happiness/joy. D = Discipline Adhering to laws of the game and RFU Core Values, self motivation that can produce moral and mental improvement. S – Sportsmanship Sportsmanship refers to virtues such as fairness, self-control, courage, and persistence. We encourage every Player, Volunteer, Coach and Parent to make a personal pledge taking into consideration the RFU Core Values. What will your “Pledge” be? ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Welcome to Old Yardleians RFC Rugby Union is a great sport for all ages Another exciting season ahead for Old Yardleians RFC Old Yardleians RFC continues our partnership with Worcester Warriors and Wasps and are now affiliated to Old Mutual Wealth Kids First Rugby (details of which are included in this handbook), plus the start of the season see’s the introduction of the new Age Grade Rugby. At Old Yardleians we offer competitive youth rugby sides for age groups under 7 (school year 2) through to under 14 (school year 9) we also provide coaching for a micro side from the age of 5 (school year 1). If you have a friend or a relative who would like to be involved, everyone is welcome at Old Yardleians so please bring them along. We pride ourselves on being a Club Mark Accredited England Rugby Club with England Rugby Policies & Guidelines and Core Values to a provide a Healthy, Safe & Happy Environment for all. Old Yardleians RFC pride themselves with the reputation of being a family friendly club, no matter your age or experience, we have DBS Checked and Qualified coaches and volunteers here that will help and guide you

2. OYRFC Safeguarding Policy Old Yardleians RFC along with the RFU greatly appreciates the army of volunteers who give up their time to organise mini and youth rugby and strive to provide the highest standards of care for children and vulnerable adults in a safe and enjoyable environment. Children are the future of our club and the sport and it is important that we help them to acquire the RFU’s Core Values from an early age and set the highest standards as role models, while ensuring their safety and wellbeing. Everyone working with boys, girls and vulnerable adults is in a position of trust, influence and responsibility by virtue of their position in our sport and must always act in the best interest of the children or vulnerable adult. It is recognised that some people use their position within sport and youth organisations to gain access to children or vulnerable adults, win their trust and then abuse it for inappropriate or illegal purposes. We are all responsible for policing the rugby environment and ensuring that anyone in our sport seeking to abuse their position of trust is deterred and punished. All volunteers working with children at Old Yardleians RFC are CRB checked using the DBS (Disclosure Barring System) in conjunction with the RFU Policies. The RFU Safeguarding policy and guidance sets out how organisations and individuals should work together to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and vulnerable adults in accordance with the Children Acts, 1989 & 2004, and the Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups Act, 2006. It is important that all those delivering a safe rugby environment fully understand their responsibilities. It attempts to achieve a balance between establishing sufficient control to minimise the risk of abuse to children and vulnerable adults, while not over burdening the willing volunteer. It includes the mandatory legal requirements, and also highlights signs which should raise suspicions of abuse as well as practices which should be avoided, in the best interests of children, vulnerable adults and those responsible for their wellbeing. The welfare of the child or vulnerable adult is paramount. • All participants regardless of age, gender, ability or disability, race, faith, size, language or sexual identity, have the right to protection from harm. • All allegations and suspicions of harm will be taken seriously and responded to swiftly, fairly and appropriately. • Everyone will work in partnership to promote the welfare, health and development of children and vulnerable adults. • The interests of those who work or volunteer with children and vulnerable adults will be protected A full copy of the RFU’s Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults Policy is available on our notice board or alternatively on line at RFU.com. Old Yardleians Safeguarding Officer – Debbie Robinson – 07825 009485 Old Yardleians Assistant Safeguarding – Ruth Surtees - 07983 557195 If a child or vulnerable adult has disclosed concerning information to you OR you have witnessed or had reported to you an incident or complaint involving the behaviour of an adult in relation to a child or vulnerable adult, which may be considered abuse or poor practice please contact your club’s safeguarding officer above. Youth Section Officers and Committee Season 2016/17 Website – www.pitchero.com/clubs/oldyardleiansrfc and www.oldyardsrugby.co.uk Facebook – Old Yardleians Mini and Junior Section (Closed Group) Club house – Old Yardleians RFC, Tilehouse Lane, Shirley, Solihull, B91 1PW Phone - 0121 744 3380 Club email – oyrfc@aol.com Youth Chairperson Mr Philip Painter – 07943 814822 Club Safeguarding OfficerMs Debbie Robinson- 07825 009485 Assistant SafeguardingMs Ruth Surtees - 07983 557195 Youth Secretary/Webmaster Ms Debbie Robinson – 07825 009485 Membership/Registrar Secretary Ms Ruth Surtees - 07983 557195 Club Coaching Co-ordinatorMr Gary Robinson – 07980 582594 Youth Fixtures Secretary Mr Dave Adams – 07732768467 Youth Fundraiser Ms Jo Hayes – 07720 496160 Youth Sponsorship Co-Ordinator Ms Alison Bartlett – 07875 207734 Youth Club Merchandiser Ms Sam Lonie –07984 995309 Youth Coaching and Team Managers Mini Administrator Ms Debbie Robinson Micros Coaches (U6) TBA Under 7 Coaches Mr Iain Johnson/Mr Paul Nuttall/Mr Ben Wilden Under 7 Team Manager Mr Iain Johnson Under 8 – CoachesMr Rob Jurkowski /Ms Kay Reid/Mr Rob Bastock/ Mr Jim Parker Under 8 Team Manager Ms Kay Reid Under 9 – Coaches Mr Nick Curry/Mr Pete Farrell Under 9 Team Manager Ms Vicky Exall Under 10 – Coaches Mr Simon Gilmour/Mr Chris Empson Under 10 Team ManagerTBA Under 11 – Coaches Mr Dave Rimmer/Mr Dave (Ralph) Rollins Under 11 Team Manager Ms Ruth Surtees Under 12 – Coaches Mr Phil Painter /Mr Gavin Chase/Mr Colin Hudson Under 12 Team Manager Mr Paul Keiser & Ms Jane Keiser Junior Administrator Mr Terry Hull Under 13 – Coaches Mr Gary Robinson/Mr Dave Hansen Under 13 Team Manager Ms Melissa Morgan Under 14 – Coaches Mr John Gaffey/Mr Terry Hull Under 14 Team ManagerMs Jo Hayes

3. Old Yardleians RFC – Youth - First Aid Policy OYRFC Qualified First Aiders Matt Dontay, Leanne Painter Alison Bartlett In the event of an injured player, one of the above First Aiders will assess the injured player and follow appropriate next steps of action, i.e. call Ambulance, administer on field first aid, advise hospital treatment. An injury which results in the player being admitted to a hospital (this does not include those that attend an Accident or Emergency Department and are allowed home from there). Must reported to the RFU (sportsinjuriesadmin@therfu.com). In the event of a visiting player being injured, or an injury occurring at an away ground, please liaise with the opposition club's representative to ensure all relevant details are noted and that the report is completed and sent. Other injuries (not rugby related) should be reported in a club's accident book. Please take care to comply with the Data Protection Act and respect confidentiality. The regulations state that there must always be access for an ambulance or other emergency vehicles wherever the game is played. There must also be access to a telephone to ensure emergency assistance can be called immediately. The RFU recommends that a first aider is present at all matches and training sessions, the club is responsible for checking that the qualifications of these people are up to date and are appropriate for the task(s) they are responsible for. These tasks will vary depending on the level of training that a first aider has (e.g. appointed person or first aid at work trained). The club's first aider or medical officer is responsible for ensuring that any equipment is kept appropriately. Equipment such as spinal boards and defibrillators should only be used by appropriately qualified people. • Old Yardleians RFC –Youth Section – Club Rules • The essence of good ethical conduct and practice is paramount to help promote the game of Rugby and to increase participation and above all provide a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for all. • We consider safety and wellbeing as outlined in our Safeguarding Policy as being key to providing a safe environment and as such adhere to the contents of the policy • We must make sure all activities are appropriate to the age, ability and experience of those taking part. • Everyone needs to promote the positive aspects of the sport (e.g. fair play) and adhere to the RFU Core Values. • All must display a high standard of behaviour and appearanceat all times • We must follow all guidelines laid down by the RFU, national governing body and the club. • We must ensure appropriate volunteers hold the necessary valid qualifications and checks and ensure club provides appropriate insurance cover. • We must never exert undue influence over performers to obtain personal benefit or reward and we must never condone rule violations, rough play or the use of prohibitive substances. • We must encourage performers to value their performances and not just results • Players must participate for the fun of it, not to just please theirparents/coach • Players must play to the laws of the game and accept all of the referees/coaches decisions. • Everyone must control their temper – and you and the team will benefit • Everyone must recognise good play, whether by your team or by your opponents team – be a good sport. • Everyone must treat all players and Volunteers as you yourself would like to be treated, do not bully or take unfair advantage of any player. • Players must co-operate and respect their coach, the referee, their team mates and the opponents, for without them you do not have a game. • Players must attend training sessions whenever possible. • Players must work equally hard for themselves and their team- as well as enjoyment, the aims of the game are to improve your skills and feel good. Do not be a show off. • Parents must encourage their child to understand the objectives and the laws of the game and play within them and discourage unfair play and arguing with other players and officials. • Parents must help their child to recognise good performance, not just results andnever force a child to take part in the sport. • Everyone must set a good example by recognising fair play and applauding good performances . • No-one must everpunish, shout or belittle a child for losing or making mistakes. Support your child’s involvement and help them to enjoy their sport.

4. Wasps Club Cash back - This is how it works.... Every ticket purchased by a member of Old Yards for a Wasps home game at the Ricoh, counts. All tickets must be purchased through your clubs Unique URL (link below) which takes you to the main Wasps Ticketing Website. https://www.eticketing.co.uk/wasps/?groupref=90&digest=7eff8a1bff7782b875d78fad5b8bdc77704508e3 Old Yardleians RFC will receive 15% Cash back on all ticket purchases and a 5% Club Cash back boost on group sales of 20+ The best performing club based on Club Cash back will receive an end-of-season training session guided by Wasps Academy Players and coaching/skills staff! Visiting the Site.• Only use the above link to apply your Club Cash-Back.• Add this to your Internet Favourites/Bookmarks.• Do not use the normal Wasps Online Ticket Office link (www.eticketing.co.uk/wasps). It will not recognise your Club Cash-Back qualification. • Always remember to login before you purchase your tickets otherwise your Club Cash-Back qualification will not be recognised. • If you have never purchased tickets for a Wasps fixture or have never created a Wasps Online Account, do this before you purchase your tickets otherwise your discount will not be recognised. • Check that you are logged in. A “Thank you” message should pop up recognising you Purchasing Tickets on the Site. • Go to the game you want tickets for and click on the Block you want to sit in.• Choose the seat(s) you want – available seats will display as green.• Once chosen, click on the Price Class box and select your price class (adult/senior/junior etc.) for that seat. • What is Old Mutual Wealth Kids First Rugby? • Old Mutual Wealth Kids First is a new approach to rugby at U7-U13 at clubs and schools across the county. It’s all about helping children develop and learn the game at their own pace, and making sure they have plenty of fun while playing. • Old Yardleians RFC are now registered and have taken the pledge to commit to a range of high quality standards. We are committed to:- • Putting children at the heart of everything we do and all decisions we make. • Encourage fun on the pitch, through equal opportunity and realistic expectations of our children. • Develop children’s confidence and character as players and as people, challenging any behaviour that conflicts with this. • Build the skills of our adults to provide a safe, healthy, respectful and enjoyable environment for children. • Champion rugby’s Core Values, inspiring a lifelong bond between children, adults and our sport. • “This is a fantastic opportunity to enhance the game for future generations of young players and we are excited that you have committed to joining us. Lets get going!” • Steve Grainger, Rugby Development Director, England Rugby • All players will receive a Reward Book adapted to their age grade playing team. • All players will be playing to the New Rules of Play (U7-U13), the principles of which include:- • Put the child first. • Maintain rugby as a game for all shapes and sizes. • Increase enjoyment for all. • Increase involvement for all. • Retain players in the game. Important Dates – 2015/2016 Sunday 4th & Sunday 11th September 2016 Registration Day and Training – 10.30am 12.30pm Sunday 2nd & Sunday 9th October 2016 Old Yardleians RFC – Annual Festival – 2nd Oct – U7/8/13/14 and 9th Oct – U9/10/11/12 Sunday 18th December 2016 Kids Christmas Party with Santa – 2.00pm – 5.30pm Overnight Tour – to be arranged Sunday 30th April 2017 Old Yardleians Youth Presentation Day - All Players Parents & Family - 11.00am till 3.00pm

5. PHOTOGRAPHIC IMAGES POLICY The RFU and Old Yardleians RFC positively encourages parents and spectators to take photographs of participants involved in rugby union to celebrate the ethos and spirit of the sport. It is not the intention of the RFU and Old Yardleians RFC to prevent photographs being taken for legitimate purposes. Care is taken when posting photographs on our website and Closed Group Face Book Page. The key points are: • Personal information which can lead to a child or vulnerable adult being identified is never used. If it is necessary to name a child we will ensure we have written parental consent and we will inform the parents as to how the image will be used. • Photographs taken by parents should be of the activity or team, not on one individual . • Children and vulnerable adults must be appropriately dressed when being photographed. It is never acceptable to capture any images in changing rooms, showers or at any time when players are dressing. Images should be neither sexual, of an exploitative nature nor open to misinterpretation or misuse . • Parents should be made aware if a film is being taken to be used as a coaching aid. Clubs and CBs should ensure that any footage will be carefully monitored and stored securely . • It is not an offence to take photographs in a public place. On privately owned or leased land it is the owner who may regulate whether or not photographs may be taken. • If there is a child who is the subject of a court order who should therefore not have their photograph taken, this needs to be bought to the attention of the Club Safeguarding Officer. Annual Subscriptions and Club Membership The annual subscriptions for the season are £60.00 per player (£30.00 for 2nd child and £20.00 for 3rd/4th child) paid at the start of the season to our Membership Secretary. If you are having difficulty in paying we can arrange a payment scheme to suit, please discuss this with the Membership Secretary. Cheques are to be made payable to Old Yardleians RFC. Micro Players (under 6 ) are not able to compete in competitive matches and are therefore not registered players. Therefore to cover training/food they will only be required to pay £1.00 per week when they attend. Youth Registration All players Under 7 and above must be registered with the RFU to play rugby, all players are allocated a registration number, please check with our Youth Registrar to ensure your child is registered. All new players will be required to complete a Registration Form except Micros (under 6). Youth Kit Allocation Policy All fully paid up players will receive a new playing shirt. Any new members will receive a shirt once they have paid their subscriptions. Any replacement kit throughout the season will be charged accordingly, New Socks and Shorts can be purchased through our Club Shop as well as other club regalia using our Club Shop order form. For more details please see our Youth Club Merchandiser. New shirts are expected to last child 2 seasons. Social Events and Fundraising We hold annual social events please look out for posters and details on face book or the website or if you would like to hold or help host an event please contact Youth Secretary or Team Administrator for more details. We are actively involved in various fundraising initiatives, we collect Sainsbury's Actives Kids Vouchers and encourage members to donate when doing on line shopping at..... http://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/oldyardleians for more information on how you can help us with raising necessary funds please contact our Youth Fundraiser. International Tickets As an affiliated club to the RFU we are allocated a number of International Tickets annually, these are only available to fully paid up members. And are NOT transferable. Our Club’s International Ticket Coordinator will send an email to members at the start of the allocation process with an application form, if you need more details or you do not receive an email you can contact our coordinator Mr Mark Baldwin on mark.xc@blueyonder.co.uk

6. Frequently Asked Question’s Where and when is training/matches? Training is held Sundays Mornings at Old Yards at 10.30am till 12.30pm Matches are held either home or away – please refer to fixtures list on Pitchero website or face book – kick off is normally 11.00am and games generally finish by 12.30pm – Under 13 & Under 14 will/may have an opportunity to train midweek as arranged by Coaches. What is Tag? Tag Rugby is a non contact form of Rugby played at Under 8, Under 7 and Under 6 (non competitive micro) age grades. What age should they wear a gum shield? Under 9 Rugby and above is played as contact and your child is required to wear a gum shield. The wearing of head guard’s and shin pads are not mandatory. Are matches/training cancelled in bad weather? Matches and Training is played/performed whenever possible taking into consideration the wellbeing of the child. Rugby cannot be played in hard frost or heavy snow and early decisions (on Saturday evenings) are made if training or matches are cancelled, if in doubt please refer to our website or face book page for updates or call your Team Manager. Is there any food and drinks available? We offer breakfast sandwiches and hot drinks to purchase between 10.00am – 11.30am. Hot Dogs/Burgers are given free to all players after matches or training. Squash is made available free to all players during training, however we recommend you bring a water bottle. If your child is a vegetarian or has any food allergies please let your Team Manager know as we can make alternative food arrangements. Are there changing facilities available? Yes, we recommend in adverse weather that all players use the training rooms to put on boots, take off muddy boots and take off muddy outer layers of clothing's. Communal showering is not permitted as per RFU guidelines in the Safeguarding Policy, however there are hand wash basins available. If parents have any concern's please speak to Club Safeguarding Officer. If you have a question please ask a member of the committee or post on our closed group face book page visit... face book/Old Yardleians Mini and Juniors Section. Anti Bullying Policy The England Rugby full policy can be found http://www.englandrugby.com/mm/Document/General/General/01/30/07/22/antibullyingbooklet.pdf What is Bullying? Bullying is the use of aggression with the intention of hurting another person. Bullying results in pain and distress to the victim. At Old Yardleians RFC Bullying of any kind is unacceptable, Bullying will be taken seriously, responded to promptly, and procedures followed to deal with the situation. If you have concerns please speak to the Club Safeguarding Officer or Assistant Safeguarding officer. My Magic Sports Kit Please take time to view this NSPCC Video on line https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2uH9Dle8mQ It is a good reminder that children are out there to enjoy sport, have fun and make friends.

7. What is Age Grade Rugby? • A player centred, development driven and competition supported approach to 6-18 year old rugby, underpinned by the wants and needs of young players.  The key changes for rugby across schools, colleges and clubs will be: • One national competition calendar • One national menu of competitions • Full roll out of the New Rules of Play • Consistent playing formats across clubs and schools Why is there need for change? The findings of the Age Grade Rugby Review, which commenced in 2011, will help us to create a more consistent playing programme and calendar within clubs, schools and colleges across the country to alleviate: A lack of clarity of the competition pathway for young players Conflict between club, school, college and representative competition structure and calendar Overplaying of the talented players Underplaying of the less able players Over emphasis on winning and picking better players to achieve this For more details about Age Grade Rugby and the England Rugby Review, format, regulations, and FAQs please visit the England Rugby Website http://www.englandrugby.com/my-rugby/players/age-grade-rugby/age-grade-competition-review/

8. Old Yardleians RFC – Valued Sponsors of our Youth Section For more information on sponsorship packages please contact our Youth Sponsorship Co-Ordinator