What is Minor Rugby?
Tall or short, fast or not-so-fast, big or little, girl or boy – have fun playing co-ed Flag Rugby, one of the world’s fastest growing team sports for kids! All players will learn the fundamentals of rugby, emphasizing safety & fun!
To learn more about minor rugby visit
To learn more about the national age grade law variations
Minor Rugby with the OIRC
Our Mini Rugby program is the perfect way for young athletes to discover rugby in a fun, safe, and inclusive environment. Based on Rookie Rugby, Canada’s nationwide introductory rugby program, our sessions focus on non-contact, game-based learning that keeps kids active and engaged.
With a curriculum designed around national Health and Physical Education guidelines, Mini Rugby helps kids develop fundamental movement skills, teamwork, and a love for the game—all while having a blast!
Age Divisions for the 2025 Season
🔹 U6 (Born 2019-2020) – Building confidence through play (FUNdamentals)
🔹 U8 (Born 2017-2018) – Developing fundamental movement skills (FUNdamentals)
🔹 U10 (Born 2015-2016) – Learning game basics (Learning to Train)
Whether your child is new to rugby or looking for a great team sport, our Mini Rugby program is a fantastic way to get started!
What to Expect
Mini Rugby players take part in Festivals—fun, action-packed tournament-style events where teams play 3 to 5 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.
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 running shoes or soccer cleats
✅ Hydration – Bring a water bottle
✅ Sun protection – Sunscreen and a hat recommended on sunny days
✅ Mouthguards (optional but recommended) – Since Mini Rugby is non-contact, mouthguards are not required for U6 to U10 players but are encouraged
Festivals are all about learning, teamwork, and fun—a great way to build confidence and develop new skills in a supportive environment!
Practices
Mini Rugby practices take place at Colonel By High School (2381 Ogilvie Rd, Gloucester, ON K1J 7N4).
📅 When?
🟢 Tuesdays & Thursdays
🕕 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📅 Season Start: May 15 (weather and field availability permitting)
What to Bring
✅ Athletic clothing – Comfortable shorts and a t-shirt
✅ Footwear – Running shoes or soccer cleats (no metal studs)
✅ Water bottle – Stay hydrated!
✅ Sun protection – Sunscreen and a hat on sunny days
✅ Mouthguard (optional) – Not required but recommended for extra protection
We focus on skill-building, teamwork, and fun in every practice. Whether your child is new to rugby or returning for another season, they’ll be learning and playing in a supportive, active environment.
Registration
Ready to get your child started in rugby? Join our Mini 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 Mini Rugby program? Angela Bolick is here to help!
As our Minor Director and U10 Coach, Angela oversees everything related to Mini Rugby, from practices and festivals to player development and team support. Whether you're new to the sport or a returning player, she's your go-to contact for any questions about the program.
📧 Email Angela at: minirugby@ottawairishrugby.com
She’s happy to assist with registration, schedules, gear, and anything else you need to get your child started in rugby!
