Welcome to minis rugby at Old Cranleighan RFC, one of the biggest rugby clubs catering for children aged four to 11 in Surrey.

We attribute our success to our passion for rugby union, our dedication to Kids First rugby and our strong commitment to rugby union’s core values.

What Is Minis Rugby?

Minis rugby is a rugby union format that introduces the game to children aged U5 to U11 of all genders. It is played on reduced pitch sizes by smaller teams under modified position and contact rules compared to adult rugby. This approach enables children to learn and apply a broad spectrum of rugby skills, within a framework emphasising fun, inclusion, and development, rather than winning games. Up to U9, children acquire foundational rugby skills through non-contact formats like TAG and touch rugby. At U9, we gradually and safely introduce players to contact rugby.

When Does It Happen?

Our coaches conduct training sessions every Sunday. These sessions aim to be enjoyable and give priority to nurturing children’s skills and confidence on the field. Our coaches employ a range of games and skill zones to instruct the children in rugby basics, including passing, tackling, and teamwork.

Do Minis Play Games Against Other Teams?

In addition to training, all our minis get to represent the club in regular festivals against other teams in the area. The emphasis in festivals is on providing our minis with the opportunity to put their newly acquired skills into practice and show off their progress. All children who join the club will be given opportunities to play regardless of ability and games progress without anyone keeping score.

Join Our Rugby Club Today

Minis rugby at OCs offers children a fantastic opportunity to learn rugby while making lasting friendships beyond the sport. Our training sessions are both fun and inclusive, providing an enjoyable and enriching experience for participants. We emphasise team spirit, camaraderie, and sportsmanship, creating a platform for children to enhance not only their physical abilities but also their mental and emotional well being.

If you’re interested in joining please click the link above and fill in the registration form. Alternatively, come to one of the training sessions below and speak directly to one of the head coaches.

Eligibility

If your child is aged 5 – 11 at Midnight on August 31 of the current year they are eligible to join the minis rugby section of our club. If your child is older than this, please refer to our Youth section. Children of all genders are welcome to join.

Volunteering

We are a grassroots, volunteer led rugby club and welcome any enquiries from guardians who are interested in volunteering for the club, be it as a coach or in another role. Please get in touch.

Training Times

Our minis rugby training sessions are held every Sunday at Old Cranleighan Sports Club in Thames Ditton at the following times: –

Minis Rugby Head Coaches