Following extensive research and consultation with stakeholders, Ulster Rugby has announced the implementation of a ‘Fair Game’ ethos across Age Grade rugby in the province.
This position, adopted by Ulster Rugby for the 23/24 season, asserts that all players have the right to access a meaningful amount of playing time, regardless of ability. All players should have the opportunity to participate, grow and improve - and the only way they can do so is to access appropriate game-time.
The principle of ‘Fair Game’ has been adopted across all aspects of Age Grade rugby in the province, with buy-in from the Youth, Schools, and Women & Girls Committees, each agreeing to encourage their teams to deliver rugby within the intended spirit.
Coaches across the game will be encouraged to collaborate, to find mutually beneficial ways for everyone to enjoy the game.
The move to adopt ‘Fair Game’ as a collective ethos in Ulster is part of a concerted effort to make the game more accessible to all participants, to enjoy and flourish within our game and to address the reasons why many players drop-out throughout their time in age grade rugby.
Speaking of the initiative, Neil Workman, Chair of Age Grade Committee, said:
“To make sure we are providing the best possible experience to our participants, it is important to guarantee that all young players get the chance to play meaningful minutes within games.
“Too many young participants drop out of sport during their formative years and we believe that by protecting our players right to play, more players will continue to enjoy their rugby into adulthood, as part of a lifelong connection to the game.”
