UNDER 9
PROUD SPONSOR OF THE UNDER 9'S
Under-9 rugby is non-contact and played with up to 6 players per side on smaller fields. The
emphasis with this age group is teamwork and fun. We teach the basic, age-appropriate rules of
the game, how to be a safe player, and how to behave as a respectable team member. Flag rugby,
a non-contact and co-ed form of the game, is played at this age. Click here to view age grade law
variations for Under 9.
With this age group, emphasis is on the Active Start stage of physical literacy, as defined by the
Canadian Sport for Life (CS4L) long-term athlete development stages. Emphasis is on having FUN
and developing fundamental movement skills: agility, balance, coordination, and speed.
Training times
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Our sessions start mid to late April weather depending outdoors at Lynn Davies Rugby Park in Sherwood Park on Friday evenings where we have skills practice once for an hour (6:00-7:00).
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Our summer season starts in early May at Ellerslie Rugby Park (11004 Ellerslie Rd SW, Edmonton, AB T6W 1A2). On Saturday mornings games are played in a jamboree style league with other Edmonton clubs, playing three to four games each Saturday. The jamboree’s run from 8:30 to 11:00 each Saturday from early May to late July.
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Players can join the team at any point in the season.
Fees
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Registration costs are outlined on our registration page here. Fees include registration with the Club, Rugby Alberta, and Rugby Canada, as well as associated insurance. Fees also include spring & summer practices, and all jamborees.
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For those in need, financial assistance is available through sportlomo. We are committed to ensuring that the sport is financially accessible to all youth.
Safety
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We believe in promoting and enforcing safety throughout every aspect of the program.
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Rugby is a physical sport that does involve contact when players are old enough. Our club believes in preparing kids from an early age to be smart, strong players. U9 players are introduced to basic rugby fundamentals including ball handling, teamwork, and goal setting. Players are supported and encouraged by the club to play at a skill and comfort level that fosters fun and enjoyment of the game.
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Strathcona Druids RFC takes the safety of our players seriously on and off the field. Our coaches are screened through background checks and vulnerable sector screening programs managed by the Edmonton Police Service, which is consistent with other kids' programs. The coaching staff review safety measures and work together to ensure that player safety is paramount. Coaches are trained and registered according to the World Rugby Passport program, which is complimented by Rugby Canada and Rugby Alberta's programs. Learn more about World Rugby's Rugby Ready program here.
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Players are encouraged - and at times pushed - to excel, but always with an emphasis on positive reinforcement. We believe that a healthy mind helps promote a healthy body.