Following discussion of this at the MJ Committee yesterday I wanted to ensure that everyone involved with Age Grade rugby at the club understands the situation regarding hand-offs.
Upto and including U11 no handing-off by the ball carrier is permitted. This culminates in Clause 8(d) of Appendix 5 to RFU Regulation 15.
U12 and U13 (Boys) Rules of Play state that the ball carrier may fend off an opponent using the hand below the armpits. This is referenced in Clause 8(d) of Appendix 6 and Clause 14(b) of Appendix 7 to RFU Regulation 15 respectively.
PLEASE NOTE: As U12s can play in the U13 (Girls) age group then no handing-off by the ball carrier is permitted. This is defined in Clause 8(d) of Appendix 10 to RFU Regulation 15.
From U14 upwards there is no stated clause in the Rules of Play specific to handing-off by the ball carrier and so we would then refer to the U19 variations to the Laws of the Game. Again, there is nothing noted regarding hand-offs. Therefore from U14 upwards the ball carrier may hand-off against any part of their opponent's body, including the head as per the full Laws of the Game. This applies to both boys' and girls' rugby.
Referees have a duty to ensure that anything that occurs during play is neither unsafe or reckless and has the right to penalise any hand-off or attempted hand-off if deemed dangerous. In Age Grade matches they have the discretion to penalise all hand-offs above the shoulder if they deem them to be dangerous, but this should be enforced consistently against both sides throughout the course of the match. It would be recommended if there are any concerns that coaches should approach their opposite number and the referee prior to kick off to understand how hand-offs are to be managed.
If any member of the Club has any questions or comments regarding the Laws of the Game, RFU Regulations or the application of either then please contact me through the contact link on my profile page.
