What is Youth Rugby?
Youth Rugby is the next step for players looking to develop their skills in a fun, supportive, and competitive environment. Our program introduces U12 athletes to safe, controlled tackling while focusing on skill development, teamwork, and game understanding. At U14, players transition into full-contact rugby, competing in structured games while continuing to build confidence and technique.
With certified coaches, structured training, and a strong club community, Youth Rugby is a great way for players to grow in the sport while making lifelong friends. Whether your child is new to rugby or ready to take their game to the next level, this program sets them up for success!
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Youth Rugby with the OIRC
Our Youth Rugby program is the perfect stepping stone for players looking to start or continue their rugby journey. Whether your child is brand new to the sport or transitioning from Mini Rugby, this program provides a fun, safe, and structured introduction to the game.
With a focus on skill development, teamwork, and game play, Youth Rugby introduces progressive contact techniques in a controlled and supportive environment. Players participate in festivals with teams from Eastern Ontario, competing in modified versions of the game that emphasize learning and fun while building confidence.
With trained and certified coaches, our program ensures athletes develop strong fundamentals while preparing for full-contact rugby in the future.
Age Divisions for the 2025 Season
🔹 U12 (Born 2013-2014) – Coed Intro to Contact
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A great starting point for new players and those transitioning from Mini Rugby
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Learning safe tackling techniques in a controlled environment
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Emphasis on fundamentals, teamwork, and game awareness
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Modified rules to ensure a smooth transition into contact rugby
🔹 U14 (Born 2011-2012) – Boys & Girls Divisions
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10v10 format on a smaller field
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Continued skill development with progressive contact introduction
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Slight increase in competition and strategic play
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A key step toward playing full-contact rugby at older levels
What to Expect
Youth Rugby players take part in Festivals—exciting, tournament-style events where teams play multiple games in a day, depending on their age group. These Festivals bring together teams from Ottawa and beyond, including clubs from across Ontario and Quebec. Our program is part of the Eastern Ontario festival circuit, and each summer, we proudly host our own Festival at Twin Elm Rugby Park.
At the U12 level, players experience modified contact rugby in a controlled and supportive setting. At U14, the game progresses with 10v10 play, introducing more strategy and competition while keeping development the main focus.
What to Bring
To ensure your child has the best experience, please have them come prepared:
✅ Dress for the weather – Shorts, a t-shirt, and soccer cleats (recommended). Jerseys are provided on game-day for U14, U12 players should bring their provided game-shirt on game day.
✅ Hydration – Bring a water bottle to stay refreshed
✅ Sun protection – Sunscreen and a hat are recommended for sunny days
✅ Mouthguard (mandatory) – Required for all U12 and U14 players for safety
✅ Optional protective gear – scrum caps, and other protective gear is permitted but not required. Connect with our Youth Director and/or coaches to double check before you invest in any gear!
Festivals and practices are all about learning, teamwork, and growth—a great way to build confidence and develop new skills in a fun and supportive environment!
Practices
Youth Rugby practices take place at Colonel By High School (2381 Ogilvie Rd, Gloucester, ON K1J 7N4).
📅 When?
🟢 Tuesdays & Thursdays
🕠 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
📅 Season Start: May 15 (weather and field availability permitting)
What to Bring
✅ Athletic clothing – Comfortable shorts and a t-shirt or jersey
✅ Footwear – Soccer cleats (recommended) or running shoes (no metal studs)
✅ Mouthguard (mandatory) – Required for all U12 and U14 players
✅ Water bottle – Stay hydrated!
✅ Sun protection – Sunscreen and a hat on sunny days
✅ Optional protective gear – Scrum caps and other protective gear are permitted but not required. Connect with our Youth Director and/or coaches before purchasing any gear to ensure it's appropriate.
At each practice, players will build skills, develop confidence, and learn the game in a supportive environment. Whether they’re new to rugby or continuing their journey, our Youth Rugby program helps them grow, compete, and have fun!
Registration
Ready to get your child started in rugby? Join our Youth Rugby program today! Whether they’re brand new to the sport or already love to run, pass, and play, our program is a fun, safe, and exciting way to develop skills and make new friends.
📅 Secure your child’s place for the 2025 season by registering now.
What’s Included with Your Registration?
When you sign up for Mini Rugby, your registration covers everything your child needs to enjoy a full season of fun, development, and competition!
✅ Spring & Summer Practices – Twice a week for all age groups
✅ Minimum of 5 Festivals – Compete against teams across Eastern Ontario
✅ Certified Coaching – All events led by Rugby Canada & Rugby Ontario trained coaches
✅ Full Rugby Insurance – Coverage through Rugby Canada & Rugby Ontario
✅ Ottawa Irish Rugby Club Membership – Includes field rentals, maintenance, coaching certifications, practice equipment, and more
✅ Official OIRC Gear – Every player gets an OIRC training shirt, shorts, and socks!
✅ Join the Best Rugby Club in Eastern Ontario! – Be part of a welcoming, supportive rugby family
📢 Don’t miss out—sign up now and get ready for an unforgettable season!
Contact
Have questions about our Youth Rugby program? Kendra McDonell is here to help!
As our Youth Director and U12 Girls/Coed Coach, Kendra oversees everything related to Youth Rugby, from practices and festivals to player development and team support. She ensures that players have a fun, safe, and structured environment to learn the game, whether they’re new to rugby or progressing from Mini Rugby.
📧 Email Kendra at: youthrugby@ottawairishrugby.com
She’s happy to assist with registration, schedules, gear, and anything else you need to get your child started in rugby!
