Accepted 4th November 2019
Townsville and District Junior Rugby League
LOCAL RULES
2020
1 Accepted 4th November 2019
Forward The Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Incorporated shall adopt and abide by the Rules and Constitution set down by the Queensland Rugby League in conjunction with the following local rules.
The Townsville and District Junior Rugby League local rules shall be reviewed and amended on an annual basis.
Local Rules for 2020 were reviewed at a General meeting on Monday 26th August 2019 and adopted at a general meeting on Monday November 4th, 2019.
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INDEX Item Page
1. Townsville and District Junior Rugby League 5 2. League Headquarters 5 3. Meetings 5 4. Affiliations 6 5. Insurance 6 6. Social Media 6 7. Directives 6 8. Season Commencement 7 9. Registrations 7 10. Sign On 8 11. Floating Players 10 12. Team Levelling 10 13. Transfers 11 14. Team Sheets 12 15. Representative Selection 13 16. Clothing 14 17. Footwear 14 18. Footballs 14 19. Jerseys / Interchange 14 20. Timing / Field Sizes 16 21. Sin Bins 16 22. Match Review / Judiciary / Discipline Tribunals 17 23. Complaints 18 24. Appeals 18 25. Points and Positions 19 26. Club Championships 21 27. Trials and Carnivals 21 28. Home Games 21 29. Recording of Games 22 30. Forfeits 23 31. Games 23 32. Coaches 25 33. Managers 26 34. Sports Trainers 27 35. League First Aid Officers 28 36. League Safe Officers 29 Appendix A Spectators Code of Conduct 30 B Representative Players Code of Conduct 31 C Anti Bullying Policy 32 D Smoke Free Policy 35 E Alcohol and Drug Free Policy 37 F Anti-Discrimination Policy 40 G Disciplinary Tribunal Reference Guide 43 H Junior Rugby League Laws Under 6 to 12 46
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1. Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Board of Delegates 1.1. The Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Board shall be made up of: a. Chairperson of the Local League b. Secretary of the Local League c. Treasurer of the Local League d. Vice Chairperson of the Local League e. Chairperson of the senior Local League with which it is affiliated f. Chairperson of the Referees Association within the Local League g. CEO or representative of the ISC Club (non-voting) h. Chairperson of each of the affiliated clubs within the Local League i. Division Manager or his or her nominee (non-voting) j. Game Development Manager or his or her nominee (non-voting).
1.2. The Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer and Vice Chairman shall be elected by the members of the Townsville and District Junior League Board at the Annual General Meeting and shall be the Office Bearers of the League.
1.3. Any Office Bearers standing for re-election shall not require nomination, but any other candidate shall be required to nominate and lodge in writing with the Secretary of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League no later than seven (7) days prior to the Annual General Meeting.
1.4. The Office Bearers shall make decisions on behalf of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Board if and/or when occasions arise.
1.5. All correspondence, including emails, Shall be directed through the TDJRL Secretary in the first instance. The QRL Operational Manager is only to be contacted if the TDJRL Secretary cannot be contacted and an answer is required urgently to an inquiry. The QRL Operational Manager will then inform the TDJRL Secretary of those inquiries.
2. League Headquarters 2.1. The Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Headquarters shall be situated at Neil Stewart Park, 132 Kern Brothers Drive, Kirwan
3. Meetings 3.1. The Townsville and District Junior Rugby League’s Annual General Meeting shall be held prior to the Annual General Meeting of the Northern Division in November of each year at League Headquarters.
3.2. All affiliated Clubs shall hold their Annual General Meeting prior to the Annual General Meeting of the League.
3.3. The Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Board shall meet on a nominated day of each month at League Headquarters.
3.4. The above delegates are ineligible to vote at the annual general or any general meeting of the local league, unless the club or association they are representing has: - a. Held a properly constituted annual general meeting b. Presented a copy of the minutes of their annual general meeting c. Supplied the local league an original and a copy of their annual report, financial statements, profit and loss statements with an auditor’s certificate attached. d. Submitted a Queensland Rugby League C1 affiliation application e. Submitted a Queensland Rugby League C2 junior affiliation agreement f. Submitted a clearance declaration g. Paid an affiliation fee of $50.00
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h. Paid in full any moneys owing to the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League prior to the Annual General Meeting.
3.5. The league shall be advised in writing within seven (7) days of the resignation of any of the affiliated Club’s executive (Chairman, Secretary, or Treasurer).
3.6. In the case of a Club Executive member resigning, a stand in Executive Member shall be appointed (with agreement of the League) within seven (7) days, who shall act in the position until a special general meeting is called. Such meeting shall be called within fourteen (14) days, when a new Executive member is appointed.
4. Affiliations 4.1. QRL affiliation documentation shall be finalised by the close of business on the last Friday of February each year. Clubs failing to submit their affiliations will not be included in the draw for that year.
5. Insurance 5.1. Player insurance shall be paid by the close of business on the last Friday of February each year. Clubs failing to pay their player’s insurance by the nominated date must cease training as well as all player activities and shall not be included in the draw for that year.
6. E-Mails /Social Media - QRL Rule 5.5 (d) 6.1. E-mails are a communication tool and users are advised to use this tool in a responsible, effective and lawful manner although by its nature e-mails seems to be less formal than other communication, the same laws Apply. It is important that users are aware of the legal risks of e-mail.
6.2. If you send e-mails with any libellous, defamatory, offensive, racist or obscene remarks you or your club can be held liable.
6.3. If you unlawfully forward personal, confidential information, you and your club could be liable.
6.4. A breach of rule 6.1 – 6.6 will result in the offender/s facing a disciplinary tribunal and or fine to the club.
6.5. Club / Referee officials, members or players shall not comment or partake in media or social media that is inappropriate, threatening, intimidating which brings or is likely to bring the game of rugby league into disrepute, non-compliance with the before mentioned will be required to show cause at a disciplinary tribunal.
6.6. Anyone providing photographs, video footage or comments to any media outlet will be required to show cause at a disciplinary tribunal.
7. Directives - QRL Rule 5.5 (a) 7.1. Clubs will be rostered to undertake field marshal duties throughout the trials, competitions, finals and carnivals, failure to do so will result in a fine of up to $1,000.00. This cost may be proportioned over the amount of games not covered by field marshals on any given day.
7.2. Teams playing first on a Friday shall be responsible for applying the goal post pads. Note * goal post pads may be left on a Friday night.
7.2.1. If there are no Friday night games than teams playing first on the Saturday will be responsible for applying the goal post pads and setting out markers where required.
7.2.2. Teams [under 6 and under 7] shall collect all markers and return them to the office immediately after the completion of their game.
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7.2.3. Teams playing last shall be responsible for removing the goal post pads and stacking them neatly in the pad room.
7.3. A fine per team as per Rule 7.4 may be imposed on teams failing to abide by Rules 7.2.1, 7.2.2 and 7.2.3
7.4. Clubs failing to obey a directive or abide by the rules of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League and/or the rules of the Queensland Rugby League may be fined a sum between $100.00 and $1,000.00, this will be at the discretion of the League.
7.5. Clubs failing to provide the league with information requested or assist with the investigation of an incident/s by the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League may be fined a sum between $100.00 and $1,000.00, this will be at the discretion of the League.
7.6. Club officials, players and members failing to obey a directive, or the rules and Code of Conduct of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League and/or the rules of the Queensland Rugby League may be suspended or defend their actions at a disciplinary tribunal.
7.7. Club officials, players and members may be dealt with through a Disciplinary Tribunal for their indiscretions / behaviour, by way of official complaints received. (Disciplinary Tribunal Reference Guide, Appendix D)
8. Season Commencement 8.1. The Townsville and District Junior Rugby League season will commence in March each year, depending on school commencement dates with Easter also being considered.
8.2. Grades will cover under 6 to under 18 inclusive.
9. Registration [Players/Coaches] 9.1 The age that a player becomes on or after the 1st of January of that year will determine the grade that player shall play in.
9.2 A player within the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League wanting to be considered for the 18 month registration window must: a. Be born in the second half of the calendar year e.g. (1st July-31st December) b. Not have any previous representative playing history, including at local league level, in the last 2 years. c. Be deemed size appropriate. d. The league at their discretion may use the approved weight for age charts provided by QLD Health. e. Not be considered for representative teams outside their ‘true’ age group. f. Forfeit their right to play up an age group, including the players ‘true’ age group. g. Not be eligible for ‘portability’ clearance to any other competition.
9.3 Should an individual qualify based on the above the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League at their discretion may also consider: a. The current club player numbers in the age group of which the player is seeking exemption to play in. [minimum of two [2] players per age group] b. The current club player numbers in the most age appropriate age group for the player seeking exemption. c. Ongoing review of the players performance should exemption be granted. This may include directing the player to participate in their most age appropriate age group at any stage.
9.4 Player registration will be in relation to the QRL player’s registrations and shall be paid in two instalments the first being in March with the second being in July full payment of each instalment shall be paid within fourteen days from the date of invoice.
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9.5 Player registration shall be Under 6 = $60.00, Under 7 – 18 = $70.00 and under 14 - 18 girls = $5.00 plus GST
9.6 It shall be the responsibility of the clubs to manage player registrations
9.7 All players shall be registered with the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League before being permitted to play.
9.8 Players who are not fully registered by 4 pm on the Friday shall not be permitted to play that weekend.
9.9 All Teams must have a coach assigned to them when they register for the current season [refer to C1 forms] and prior to the team taking to the field for all trials and competition games.
9.10 A coach cannot coach at training until they have registered for the current season [if a returning coach] and/or registered online through an NRL Course [if a new coach]
9.11 All new coaches for the current season must have registered on an NRL coaching course and completed the on line modules by 31 March
9.12 For new coaches, the face to face component must be completed within two [2] months of registering on line.
9.13 The final date for registration of coaches for each season is 30 June.
9.14 For teams that registered for the current season but have not identified a coach on affiliation form there Will be a two [2] month grace period from 1 January [28 February] for clubs to assign their coaches for the current season with the possibility of extension at the discretion of your relevant Division Manager. Exemptions to this policy can be sought under special circumstances from the Relevant Division Manager.
10 Sign On - As per QRL Rules Part 4 10.2 Clubs may commence signing existing players and girls online as of the 1st of November each year or whatever date the NRL set for Re-registrations.
10.3 Signing of new or transferring players shall not commence prior to the first weekend after the commencement of the school year annually unless authorised by the league.
10.4 All new players will remain in pending until cleared by the league, transferring players will be in accordance with Rule 10.13 (QRL Rule 4.1.6) and clearances determined by the league.
10.5 Birth certificate or Passport information will be required to be recorded online when registering a new player.
10.6 If clubs are requested by parents / caretakers to sign a player on, online the club shall have the parents / caretakers sign and date a paper based request.
10.7 Clubs shall make public the proposed number of teams in each age group that the club will have for the upcoming season.
10.8 Clubs are to, ensure that existing players where practicable are given the opportunity to resign with their existing club before signing new or transferring players.
10.9 Clubs failing to abide by rule 10.6 and 10.7 and unable to provide justification for their actions may be dealt with under rule 7.5.
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10.10 Clubs shall have a documented process in place relating to communication to team managers / coaches of fully registered and suspended players who can /cannot take the field and must include a club- imposed penalty if an unregistered or suspended player takes the field.
10.11 Under no circumstances shall clubs allow an unregistered or suspended player to take the field.
10.12 Clubs are to ensure that all teams are capped as per the following criteria: ▪ Under 6 and under 7 = Maximum 10 players (6 on field)
▪ Under 8 and under 9 = Maximum 12 players (8 on field)
▪ Under 10 and under 11 = Maximum 15 players (11 on field)
▪ Under 12 and under 13 = Maximum 20 players (13 on field, maximum 19 per game)
▪ Under 14 and under 15 = Maximum 22 players (13 on field, maximum 19 per game)
▪ Under 16 and under 17 = Maximum 25 players (13 on field, maximum 19 per game)
▪ Exemption will be given for single town clubs, up to the equivalent number of players required on the field to form another team. ▪ Exemptions may also be given in special circumstances. Clubs signing more players than the allowable cap, may not receive the exemption, Applications for exemption shall be in writing from the club secretary and an exemption will be at the discretion of the League, the decision of the League shall be final.
10.13 Clubs who obtain the above exemption shall not play more players than the maximum number of capped players in any one game, or no more than 19 players are allowed per game where applicable.
10.14 Clubs shall provide the League with their capped player roster (XL spreadsheet) one (1) week prior to the commencement of round 1 each year.
10.15 Teams that have not provided a capped player roster to the league will not accrue points until such time they have done so.
10.16 Teams playing player/s above the cap allocation will automatically lose points and the coach / manager may be required to appear before a disciplinary tribunal.
10.17 As per QRL Rules 4.1.6 in any Football Year, a Club shall not register more than five (5) junior players in any one junior age group or senior grade who in the preceding Football Year were registered with another Club affiliated with the QRL. Of these five (5) junior players, no more than two (2) shall be from any one (1) Junior Rugby League Football Club. The following exemption may be considered by the league.
10.18 The player’s previous club is no longer affiliated with the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League.
a. The player’s previous club does not field a team or has too many players in a particular grade.(evidence required from previous club)
b. The player’s residential address changes by a substantial distance (proof will be required).
c. The player’s previous club gives written consent allowing him/her to sign with another club.
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d. The league may on merit exempt the transfer of full teams from one club to another where a club has more than two teams in one grade, in this instance Rule 12 (team levelling criteria) will come into effect.
e. Where clubs sign more than the allowable number of players as per Rule 10.13, the league will advise who will be accepted in relation to the last allowable player signing first.
10.19 Clubs with two or more teams in grades from under 9 – Under 17 shall ensure that all teams are equal in relation to skills and ability as per Rule 12 (team levelling criteria).
11 Floating Players a. Clubs that have two (2) or more teams in one grade, that cannot make full teams as per team capping may use floating players to be able to maintain two (2) or more teams in a competition.
b. Clubs are to request in writing to the league seeking permission to use floating players and must provide the following information: - 1. Age group and names of the teams involved 2. The Names of the players in each team (note one or more teams must be full) 3. Number of all registered players in that age group 4. The Club will than nominate and provide the names of the floating players to be utilised 5. Nominated rotating players shall not be representative or highly skilled players.
c. The league will review the request and advise the numbers of floating players that can be used from each team.
d. Floating players cannot be substituted by other players at any time.
12 Team Levelling Criteria: The criteria relates to clubs that have two or more teams within the one age group within the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Competition.
12.2 Representative Player: A player is recognised as a representative player from the previous season only e.g. Represents their school at divisional or higher level Represent their club in Country, Cyclones, Jets, Blackhawks or higher
12.3 State Representatives: Two state representatives (Club or Schoolboys) cannot be in the one team unless all other teams within the age group each have a State Representative.
12.4 Division Representatives: Two Division Representatives (Club or Schoolboys) cannot be in the one team unless all other teams within the age group each have a Division Representative.
12.5 League Representatives: Two league representatives cannot be in the one team unless all other teams within the age group each have a league representative.
12.6 Representative Combinations: (relates to both club and school) Representative players are to be distributed evenly across team’s e.g.
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Team 1. Team 2. Team 3. State Representative Division Representative Division Representative League Representative League Representative City / Country City / Country City / Country
12.7 Clubs should approach the TDJRL for clarification / guidance in relation to the above if uncertain of requirements, the league reserves the right to appoint personal to assist in the levelling of teams if required.
12.8 New / Transferring Players: New or transferring players must complete a form advising of their representative status, the club shall than use this information to determine which team within the club requires or would best benefit from the skills the player possesses, ensuring that team levelling is maintained at all times.
12.9 Justification: The TDJRL may request that a club present justification to the Executive in relation to the split of representative players across their teams within an age group.
12.10 The TDJRL Executive may direct a Club to move a representative player/s from one team to another in an attempt to have teams within a club as even as possible, this will be done by way of a motion and vote.
12.11 A Club failing to undertake the team levelling directive of the TDJRL Executive, may be fined in accordance Rule 7.5 and the team in question not receiving competition points for that season, this decision may be made at any time throughout the season.
12.12 Clubs shall be required to nominate teams for the upcoming season by close of business on a nominated day and time each year and shall finalise their team nominations for the upcoming season, no later than the Wednesday prior to the second trial, at which point no further teams will be accepted.
12.13 At the end of each Junior Rugby League season all defaulter names are to be sent to the QRL Operational Manager. Defaulters cannot be registered with another club until their debt is paid in full and written confirmation is received by the relinquishing club.
13 Transfers 13.2 Once a player has signed for a club, that player shall not play for another club without first obtaining a clearance, such clearance shall be completed via league net, the relinquishing club will have 10 business days to respond.
13.3 The league reserves the right to grant a transfer to a player if the relinquishing club has not done so by 10 business days and has not provided the league with a suitable explanation as to why the transfer should not be granted.
13.4 A player requesting a transfer shall not play any games until the transfer has been finalised, submitted and received confirmation from the league.
13.5 Representative players from the previous year [e.g. 2019] shall not be permitted to transfer to another club in the current year [e.g. 2020] without requesting an exemption from the Manager QRL Northern Division.
13.6 Signing and transferring of players shall cease on the 30 of June each year, players transferring from outside the district may be exempt on written approval from the TDJRL and such players shall only
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than be registered by the QRL operational Manager with prior approval from the QRL Northern Division Manager.
13.7 In the case of a club having two (2) or more teams in the one (1) grade players will not be allowed to play for another team in that grade without first obtaining a transfer. Interclub transfers will not be permitted after round 3 of the Trails unless directed by the Executive due to team levelling requirements.
13.8 Players who play up a grade, where there is more than one club team in a grade shall only play for one team.
13.9 Under 17’s shall sign on in their own age group, and may play under 19’s, once they have attained the age of 17, however they shall be required to fulfil their commitments within their own age group prior to playing under 19’s. Should the 19’s game be scheduled prior to the 17’s game on a weekend permission must be sought from the Junior League Club by close of business on the Wednesday prior to the game.
14 Team Sheets 14.2 It is the responsibility of the Club to ensure that all players are allocated to a team a. By the Wednesday prior to round 1 b. Team sheets are updated by the close of business each Wednesday.
14.3 It is the responsibility of the Club to ensure that all the Coach, Manager, First Aid officer, League safe are allocated to a team. a. By the Wednesday prior to round 1 b. Team sheets are updated by the close of business each Wednesday.
14.4 Team sheets will be printed weekly to show the names of the registered players for that team.
14.5 Additional players names may only be hand printed on the team sheets under the following conditions. a. Players that are correctly registered to that team (due to the number of players shown on the team sheet) b. Players playing up a grade, must be indicated as per example - John Smith (11)
14.6 Players added to team sheets shall have their correct registered name recorded, or they may be classed as an unregistered player and dealt with accordingly.
14.7 Under no circumstance are players names to be crossed out on the team sheets
14.8 Team sheets shall be filled out correctly ensuring all fields are completed correctly prior to the commencement of a game.
14.9 Teams not providing the name of all team officials (coach, manager, Sports Trainer and league safe officer etc.) on the team sheet may not be awarded points.
14.10 Representatives of both teams are to sign the team sheet at the completion of the game, if team sheets are not signed by both team representatives than points for the game may not be awarded, Note it is not a requirement for referees to sign team sheets.
14.11 If there are any changes to scores etc. on the team sheets than both team representatives must initial the change or the changes will not be recognised.
14.12 It is the responsibility of the host club for games played away from Neil Stewart Park, to scan and email the game sheets ensuring they reach the league within 1 hour after the completion of the last game of the day,
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however in the case of round 15 than game sheets shall be scanned and emailed immediately at the completion of each game.
14.13 Team sheets not received as per rule 15.12 may incur a fine as per Rule 7.5.
15 Representative Selection 15.2 To be eligible for representative selection players must be correctly registered with a club, be fully financial with their respective club prior to playing (it will be the responsibility of the club to advise the League of non- financial players). New players may be required to produce a birth certificate or passport to their club registrar.
15.3 Players who do not play in selection trials will be ineligible for representative selection, however players who were being considered for selection and obtain an injury may be selected, on the provision that an independent doctor arranged by the league verifies the injury.
15.4 Players wishing to be exempt from representative selection (e.g. at League or Divisional Level) shall advise the league secretary in writing and shall do so prior to the representative teams being named.
15.5 A player may be excused within a reasonable timeframe after being selected to represent City, Country or Townsville providing a suitable explanation is provided.
15.6 If a player makes themselves unavailable after being selected for City, Country or Townsville, (as per QRL Rules) or if the player refuses to play without just cause a mandatory two (2) weeks suspension may be implemented.
15.7 Injured players will be required to provide a Doctor’s Certificate stating the nature of the injury, that player will then need to provide a doctor’s certificate clearing that player prior to resume playing. The league reserves the right to have the injury verified by an independent doctor assigned by the league.
15.8 City teams will comprise of, Brothers, Centrals, JCU Saints, United Suburbs and Western Lions, Country teams will comprise of Bowen, Burdekin, Charters Towers, Herbert River, Norths and Upper Ross.
15.9 Players who commence playing for a country club from 10 to 18 years of age will be eligible for country selection, this includes players who relocate to one of the city clubs, parents whose son/daughter who do not wish to have their son/daughter considered for country selection may apply for an exemption to allow them to be considered for City.
15.10 The following is the selection criteria for all age groups participating in the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League selection trials.
Under 10 • Selection in these age groups shall be based on a reward system [not necessarily the best players] The below criteria shall be used but not limited to. • Attendance at training • Punctuality for training and games • Follows direction and try’s hard • Undertakes all activities to the best of their ability • Willingness to learn • 15 players from County and City are to be selected • Coaches will be appointed through the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League application and selection process.
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Under 11 and 12 • This age group will be based on the selection of the best available players from city and country. • Given the percentage of players in City and Country the trial will be set up as a three-team trial with each team playing one another • 15 players from County and 30 players from City are to be selected [under 11] • 19 players from Country and 38 players from City are to be selected [under 12] • City will be made up of two even teams [Cyclones & Jets] • Coaches and selectors will be appointed through the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League application and selection process.
Under 13 – under 16 • These age groups will be based on the selection of the best available players from city and country. • Selection of these players will be based on the origin of players, e.g. players who played their first game of rugby league for a country club and is now playing for a city club is eligible for country selection. • Given the percentage of players in City and Country the trial will be set up as a three-team trial with each team playing one another • 19 players from Country and 38 players from City are to be selected • City will be made up of two even teams [Cyclones and Jets] • These games will be a selection trial, with the following number of players selected from each grade being invited into the Blackhawks Academy. o Under 13 – 25 players o Under 14 - 25 Players [boys & girls] o Under 15 – 25 Players o Under 16 – 25 Players [boys & girls] • Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Representative teams will be selected from the 25 player academy squads to represent at the North Queensland Marlins Selection Trials. • Coaches will be appointed by panel consisting of League and Blackhawks representatives • Coaches and Blackhawks mentors will select the academy squads and representative teams.
Under 17 • This age group will be based on the selection of the best available players from city and country. • Selection of these players will be based on the origin of players, e.g. players who played their first game of rugby league for a country club and is now playing for a city club is eligible for country selection. • 19 players from Country and 19 players from City are to be selected [city players may be selected for country if required] • These games will be a selection trial with 25 players being invited into the Blackhawks Academy.
15.11 Blackhawks representative Coaches, Managers, Sports Trainers, league Safe officers, will be appointed by a joint League and Blackhawks selection panel. a. Applicants for coaching position who have a son/daughter in the age group that they are applying for will not be considered for that position (Managers, Sports Trainers and League Safe Officers may be exempt if not involved in player selection)
15.12 Teams selected will train at Neil Stewart Park, Kern Brothers Drive on Sundays at nominated times.
15.13 Players who cannot train due to injury must still attend training and advise the coach/ manager on the extent of the injury and proposed unavailability duration.
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15.14 If a player does not attend training without a reasonable excuse or without prior notification to their coach or manager than the player may be replaced in the team, and may be suspended for a mandatory 2 club games.
15.15 Representative players and support staff shall abide by the players code of behaviour while representing the League.
16 Clothing 16.2 All players must play in designated club colours displaying the current QRL logo.
16.3 Permission must be obtained from the TDJRL prior to teams taking the field in non-designated uniforms; the opposing team will be notified prior to the commencement of the game if permission is granted.
16.4 Clothing shall be purchased from an approved Queensland Rugby League distributor.
16.5 Compression Garments are allowed to be worn with the following conditions:- a. The garments do not extend below the elbow or knee b. They must be black or match the colour of the club uniform c. They do not have any markings other than the manufacturers name d. An exception letter has been obtained from the Northern Division Manager for medical reasons.
17 Footwear 17.2 All players shall wear footwear:- a. Under 6 players are to wear closed in shoes (jogger/ football boots). b. Under 7 to Under 12 (both inclusive) players to wear moulded sole shoes only. c. Under 13 to Under 18 (both inclusive) screw in tags are permitted d. All team officials (coaches, managers, sport trainers and league safe officers) shall wear closed in shoes while officiating. e. Field Marshalls shall wear closed in shoes while officiating.
18 Footballs a. Clubs are to supply footballs for all games. b. Game footballs shall be Steeden (brand) displaying the QRL logo. c. Games shall not commence until two (2) balls are available. d. Each club shall provide one (1) football per game. e. White footballs shall be used for night games.
19 Jerseys / Interchange a. Only the capped number of players per age group (with a maximum of 19 players) shall be allowed to be named on a team sheet and take part in a game. b. Swapping of jerseys between players is not permitted. c. Clubs with one or more teams in the one grade are to ensure that uniforms are not similar when playing one another, to assist referees with team identification, referees may refuse to officiate where team uniforms are similar. d. Under no circumstances are jerseys to be worn inside out. e. All jerseys shall be clearly and suitably numbered. f. Unlimited interchange shall be permitted in Under 13 to under 18 (both inclusive). g. Under 6 teams can either wear T-shirts with current QRL and club logo on it or club jerseys. h. Players in Under 6 and Under 7 are required to play a minimum of 10 minutes per game. Game times may be broken i. Players in Under 9 to Under 11 are required to play a minimum of 20 minutes per game. Game times may be broken J. Players in Under 12 are required to play a minimum of 30 minutes per game. Game times may be broken
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k. Vests can be changed anytime during the game for any reason, however once someone wears a vest of any colour and then is changed to a non-vested position then that player cannot wear a vest of any colour for the remainder of that game.
20 Timing / Field Size 20.2 Games shall be timed by central timing from the office. [with the exemption of the mini fields who shall self- time their games]
20.3 Play periods and Field Size will be as follows:-
20.3.1 Under 6 = 4 x 10 minutes, 3 minute breaks (on a field 40 metres x 20 meters) maximum of 6 players on the field
20.3.2 Under 7 = 4 x 10 minutes, 3 minute breaks (on a field 40 metres x 20 meters) maximum of 6 players on the field
20.3.3 Under 8 = 4 x 10 minutes, 3 minute breaks (on a field 68 metres x 30 meters) maximum of 8 players on the field
20.3.4 Under 9 = 4 x 10 minutes, 3 minute breaks (on a field 68 metres x 30 meters) maximum of 8 players on the field
20.3.5 Under 10 & 11 = 2 x 20 minutes, 5 minute break (on a field 80 metres x 48 meters) maximum of 11 players on the field
20.3.6 Under 12 = 2 x 20 minutes, 5 minute break (on a field 100 metres x 68 meters) maximum of 13 players on the field
20.3.7 Under 13 to 18 = 2 x 30 minute halves, 5 minute break (on a field 100 metres x 68 meters) maximum of 13 players on the field
20.4 Teams will be advised to take the field prior to the siren sounding, once the siren has sounded then game time will commence.
20.5 No time off will be allowed except for the following circumstances:-
20.5.1 During the general season if more than 20 minutes is lost due to waiting for an ambulance, it will be the discretion of the Ground Manager to decide if time should continue.
21 Sin Bins 21.2 Players sent to the sin bin must report to the central timing office. Time will not commence until the player is seated in the designated area. (It is advisable that these players be given a bottle of water while in the sin bin).
21.3 Players while in the sin bin, who do not follow the direction of an official or who swear, be abusive or dis-respective will not be allowed to take any further part in the game and will be automatically suspended for a period of two club fixtures.
21.4 Anyone other than team official is not permitted to talk to a player while in the sin bin.
16 Accepted 4th November 2019
22 Match Review / Judiciary / Discipline Tribunals 22.2 Players who are sent from the field shall leave the playing area immediately (this includes the reserve bench) remove their jersey and get dressed.
22.3 Where a player send-off occurs at games not played at the TDJRL grounds than the following shall occur:-
22.4 Host clubs shall notify the League by telephone immediately following the completion of the game and advise the name of the player sent from the field, the age group and reason if known.
22.5 It is the responsibility of the host club to ensure that a copy of the charge and team sheets are scanned and emailed or delivered on that same day, failure to do so may result in a fine in accordance Rule 7.5.
22.6 Where there has been a send off SD cards are to be handed into the office immediately after the game, if games are out of town than the SD card must be handed to the referee immediately after the game to bring back to Townsville and handed into the office.
22.7 Referees are to advise the Junior Referees Coordinator by telephone advising that a send-off has occurred immediately following the completion of the game and provide the host club with the appropriate charge sheet.
22.8 Referee reports and Video in relation to player send offs will be referred to the Match Review Committee, who will determine the charge and the grading.
22.9 The player’s club will then receive notification in relation to the charge, grading, points loading and reduction in relation to an early plea.
22.10 The player can accept the charge and grading by entering an early plea or reject the charge and grading and defend the charges at a judiciary.
22.11 A club may request that a player be cited for a breach of rules during a game that had not been dealt with or overlooked by a referee, with the following being provided to the league within forty-eight [48] hours of the incident. a. A fee of $300.00 b. Written request on an official letter head [no emails] c. A copy of the video (a time line is to be provided e.g. 2nd half 23rd minute). d. If all the above are not forthcoming, then no action will be taken.
22.12 In the case of a club requesting a player be cited for indiscretions that a video may not pick up the following shall occur in the first instance:-
22.13 The player must have reported such indiscretions to a match official at the time of the incident or at the first break in play.
22.14 The match official is to provide a report in writing to the league advising of the reported incident.
22.15 The Club’s request shall be on an official letter head within (48 hours)
22.16 The League on receipt of the citing requests and video evidence in relation to Rule 23.11 / 23.12 the league will determine if such request be sent to the Match Review Committee for further action.
22.17 Video evidence may be used for support when defending a charge at a Judiciary or disciplinary tribunal.
17 Accepted 4th November 2019
22.18 All penalties handed down by a Judiciary tribunal may be appealed in writing, within ten (10) days to the QRL Northern Division Manager, such appeal will attract a fee of $500 which shall be paid in conjunction with the written appeal and a refund may occur if the appeal is successful.
22.19 The judiciary tribunal shall be made up of people who are independent to the league or any associated club.
22.20 Clubs may nominate members in writing for the Match Review Committee or the Judiciary Tribunal, such nominations are to be in the hands of the Secretary prior to the Annual General meeting each year and will be tabled at the annual general meeting for consideration by the Board.
22.21 All off field indiscretions will be dealt with by a disciplinary tribunal however Coaches, Managers League Safe and Sports Trainers may be suspended under the following three (3) levels of consequence: • Low Range (Abusive) • Medium Range (Threatening) • High Range or Extreme Range (Physical or Violent) For periods ranging from 1 to 8 weeks
22.22 The disciplinary tribunal may be made up of any three (3) members of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League board (excluding members involved with the clubs concerned) or suitable independents providing they are not associated with clubs involved with the incident.
22.23 All penalties handed down by a disciplinary tribunal may be appealed in writing, within ten (10) days to the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League, such appeal will attract a fee of $500 which shall be paid in conjunction with the written appeal and a refund may occur if the appeal is successful.
22.24 Clubs may nominate members in writing for the Disciplinary Tribunal, such nominations are to be in the hands of the Secretary prior to the Annual General meeting each year and will be tabled at the annual general meeting for consideration by the Board.
23 Complaints 23.2 All complaints submitted to the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League must be on an official club letter head, such complaints must be received within 48 hours of the incident occurring, clubs than have a further 24 hours to provide the league with video evidence and or witness statements.
23.3 If the requirements in rule 24.1 is not provided within the required timeframes than no action will be taken by the league.
23.4 Anyone found to have provided wrongful verbal or written statements may be charged with vilification and required to face a disciplinary tribunal.
24 Appeals 24.1 Rules, Regulations and By-Laws of Queensland Rugby Football League Limited ...Part 5.3.1: “Where a player has entered a plea of not guilty or wishes to argue the severity of the grading of the charge then that player must submit to the Local League, a brief outline of the grounds on which he or she wishes to rely together with such further evidence (e.g. video evidence of the original incident) which is directly relevant to the appeal and which has not been considered/available by or to the Match Review Committee. Such summary must be included with the written referral to the Judiciary Tribunal together with all further relevant evidence.”
18 Accepted 4th November 2019
24.2 All appeals must be in relation to the following: - (a) New evidence that can support such appeal (b) Process not followed (c) Length of suspension (if exceeding eight (8) weeks)
25 Points / Positions 25.2 Competition points will be awarded as follows: - a. Win = 4 points b. Bye = 4 points c. Draw = 2 points d. Loss = 1 point e. Forfeit / disqualification = 0 points
25.3 Teams shall automatically lose points for the following: - a. Playing an unregistered player. b. Playing a suspended player. c. Playing a player over the allowable capped numbers d. Playing a player from another team (unless that player is playing up a grade). e. Playing a player from another club (without being suitably transferred). f. Having more than the allowable number of players on the field during a game g. Swapping of jerseys between players during a game h. Turning jerseys inside out to participate in a game i. Not abiding by the rules set down by the league. j. Players not playing in their designated club colours and displaying the current QRL Logo (unless prior approval has been obtained from the League). k. Players playing in a younger grade. [unless exempted under the 18month rule] l. Where there are two (2) or more teams in one grade within a club that are not levelled to the satisfaction of the league. m. Loss of points shall only apply to affected games and clubs shall be notified with a Breach Notification (E-mail).
25.4 There will be no appeals to the League in relation to teams losing points for any of the breaches identified in Rule 25.2. If you wish to Dispute the loss of points you can write to the QRL Northern Division and lodge a Dispute as per QRL Rules Part 5.
25.5 Positions on the table will be determined by: a. First team with the highest competition points. In the event that teams are on the same points, then points for and against will determine the top position. b. Second team with the second highest competition points. In the event that teams are on the same points, then points for and against will determine second position. c. Third team with the third highest competition points. In the event that teams are on the same points, then points for and against will determine third position. d. If competition points and points difference are the same in relation to first, second or third position than a count back of the games played between the teams concerned during the rounds will determine the position. e. There may be two (2) or more group finals if there are more than 12 teams in a competition age group. f. Fourth team with the fourth highest competition points. In the event that teams are on the same points, then a playoff will take place on the Wednesday evening following the last fixture game. The winner of the play off will take fourth position. If there is more than one play off in any one grade than they shall be played on the Tuesday and Thursday nights? g. Where a competition is broken into two (2) groups than it will determined which group teams will play in for the finals as per Rule 25.4f.
19 Accepted 4th November 2019
h. Play offs for fourth place shall be hosted by the team on the highest points for and against, or at a neutral ground determined by the league. i. Semi-finals are to be played for teams Under 12 to 18. j. A Knock out round robin will be played for Under 10 and Under 11 grades, concluding with a Final on Grand Final Day.
25.6 If there are five [5] teams or less in a competition than the top three [3] will participate in finals, however the league may consider playing a grand final only. Depending on the number of teams in the older age groups Under 15 – 17’s a six [6] team final may be played e.g. teams finishing first and second will have a week off, third will play sixth and forth will play fifth with the losers eliminated, winner of third and sixth will play the team finishing first etc.
25.7 Semi-finals will be played as follows: - Week 1: ▪ 4 Team - Major Semi: Team finishing first versus team finishing second; winner progresses to grand final, loser to play winner of the minor semi-final. ▪ 6 Team – Teams finishing first and second will have the week off, team finishing third will play the team finishing sixth, loser eliminated, team finishing fourth will play team finishing fifth, loser eliminated.
▪ 4 Team - Minor Semi: Team finishing third versus team finishing fourth; winner to play loser of the major semi-final; loser is eliminated.
Week 2: ▪ 4 Team - Preliminary Final: Loser of major semi-final versus winner of minor semi-final; winner proceeds to grand final; loser is eliminated. ▪ 6 Team - Qualifying Final: Team finishing first will play the winner of the semi final between the team finishing 3 and sixth, the team finishing second will play the winner of the semi-final between the team finishing fourth and fifth, both losers will be eliminated
25.7.1 Semi / Preliminary Finals a. There will be no time off for injury, however; b. It will be the discretion of the Ground Manager to decide if additional time should be played if significant time has been lost.
Week 3: ▪ 4 Team - Grand Final: Winner of preliminary final versus winner of major semi-final. ▪ 6 Team – Grand Final: Winner of qualifying final 1 verses winner of qualifying final 2. ▪ In the event of a tied game at full time, golden point rules will apply, golden point for under 10 to under 12 will be the way of a try. ▪ At full time the referee will conduct a coin toss to commence a 5 minute each way period, there will be a 1-minute break prior to the commencement of additional time and again at halftime of the additional period, the referee will call an end to the game as soon as either team scores a point. ▪ If scores are still tied at the end of the additional 5 minute each way period than the game will continue with no break until either side scores a point at which time the referee will call time.
25.7.2 Grand Finals: a. There will be no time of for injury, with the following exception; b. Once an ambulance has been called c. Time off in the last five (5) minutes may occur in international games (u13 to u18) if the game is in the balance and shall be at the discretion of the Ground Manager/Time Keeper.
20 Accepted 4th November 2019
25.8 No player shall be eligible to take part in the finals unless they have previously met the following criteria:- • Under 12 to under 18 inclusive - played six (6) games for that team during the season • Floating players must have played six [6] games in their allocated team and a minimum of three [3] games in their nominated team players playing up a grade are required to play three [3] games for that team in the higher grade.
25.9 Players may request exemptions in writing in the case of injuries where doctor’s certificates have prevented them from playing (doctors’ certificates to be attached to the request), it will then be up to the discretion of the league to grant such exemptions.
25.10 Players participating in higher levels of league e.g. Blackhawks preventing them from playing for their club may be eligible to play in finals providing they have played 3 games for their club in the relevant grade.
25.11 The league reserves the right to disqualify teams from participating in the competition or finals if there have been continued indiscretions by that team.
25.12 The league reserves the right to disqualify teams from participating in the finals if there are invoices overdue.
26 Club Championships 26.2 Club championships shall be determined by the total aggregate competition points for all teams between under 12 and under 18, divided by the number of teams in those age groups to determine an average.
26.3 Clubs must field a minimum of four (4) teams as per Rule 26.1 to be eligible for the club championships
27 Trials / Carnivals 27.2 Trials shall not be played without the following: a. Insurance has been paid for current year. b. Permission obtained by both clubs from the league. c. Games being played prior to the 1 of March shall not proceed until after 5pm.
27.3 Teams wishing to take part in carnivals must: a. Seek approval from the league. b. Provide the league with a team list. c. Provide a copy of the carnival application form (affiliated club name to be used). d. Gain permission from the league if clubs are combining to form an invitational side cannot use either affiliated club name).
28 Home Games 28.2 Out of town clubs will be allocated seven (7) home games per year.
28.3 In Town clubs will be allocated six (6) home games per year including trials if practicable.
28.4 Clubs hosting home games and wishing to change game times must: • Must be done within a suitable timeframe; • Seek agreement from the visiting club [if both clubs agree] • Seek approval from the league to proceed with change of the game times. • If sanctioned by the league it will be the responsibility of the Hosting club to advise the referee’s and the operation manager of the change.
21 Accepted 4th November 2019
28.5 Clubs Conducting home games shall be responsible for providing touch judges for all games from under 13 to under 18 inclusive if required
28.6 Player’s benches must be together and are to be cordon off, no one other than players and coaching staff taking part in the game are allowed within the vicinity of the players bench area
28.7 Clubs conducting home games shall be responsible for the payment of referees, referee’s association will invoice the clubs after each home game, clubs are to pay the referees invoice within fourteen [14] days from the date of the invoice.
28.8 Clubs conducting home games shall nominate a Ground Manager and advise the league and visiting clubs with a contact name and number prior to the day of the fixture/s.
28.9 In the case of a home game being cancelled due to inclement weather or any other reason beyond the club’s control, the league will determine if the game can / should be rescheduled. a. If yes - the League will nominate a date and times for the game to be played. b. If no - cancel the game and award a draw with shared points. c. The leagues decision shall be final.
28.10 Clubs conducting home games shall have field marshals in attendance for all games
28.11 It is the responsibility of clubs conducting home games to advise the league of any send offs, misconduct or bad behaviour immediately which shall include the following information, offenders name, club, position, address and age group.
28.12 In the case of issues between the hosting and visiting clubs where issues can be resolved with an agreed outcome, the host club shall advise the league of such outcome.
28.13 The league may take further action if outcomes are unacceptable or notification is not received within 3 days.
28.14 Clubs conducting home games shall provide the league with game results (by phone, scan or text) immediately at the end of the last game of the day.
28.15 Clubs conducting home games in round 15 shall ring, scan or text the results immediately at the completion of each game from under 12 – under 18) so that a finals draw can be completed for each grade.
28.16 A field marshal’s duties shall be; to ensure that all rules of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League and Queensland Rugby League are followed throughout the day, investigate any complaints or queries and provide the league with a report on the events of the day if required.
28.17 All match officials shall be registered with the Townsville and District Referees’ Association.
28.18 All match official appointments shall be the responsibility of the Townsville and District Referees’ Association, however the league reserves the right to query or make recommendations in relation to appointments.
29 Recording of Games 29.2 Clubs shall video all international grade games 29.3 Clubs shall provide a copy of the video to the league or match review committee if required for judiciary tribunals for grading of player citing’s or send-offs. 29.4 Failure to video games will result in disciplinary action as per Rule: 7.5
22 Accepted 4th November 2019
30 Forfeits 30.2 If a forfeit occurs than it is the responsibility of the forfeiting club to provide the league within five [5] working days, an explanation as to why a forfeit was necessary.
30.3 The league will determine if the explanation given is legitimate with the following to occur a. If a club’s reason is found to be legitimate and have met the requirements of Rule 30.4 than no further action is required. b. If a club fails to provide a written explanation or that reason is found not to be legitimate than the league reserves the right to fine that club an additional $300.00 to that shown in Rule 30.5
30.4 Forfeiting club shall notify each of the below mentioned no later than 6:30 pm on the Thursday preceding the Friday and Saturday fixtures: - [notification can be done verbally but must be confirmed in writing e.g. E-mail] ▪ The opposing club ▪ Referee’s Junior Coordinator Michael Kirkwood [email protected] - 0412 055 051 ▪ League Secretary [email protected] – 0424 757 262 ▪ Operation Manager [email protected] - 0401 012 153
30.5 Hosting league/clubs shall be eligible to receive $300 (per team) in the way of fines, from visiting teams for games lost due to forfeits, this shall double if this occurs in the last 5 rounds of the competition. Note it is the responsibility of the hosting league/club to provide an invoice for the applicable amount, the forfeiting club shall pay such invoice within fourteen [14] days.
30.6 The following fees will apply in all age groups when a club travels to find the opposing team has forfeited: $600.00 compensation to the travelling club to be paid within 14 days of invoice. Note: it is the responsibility of the travelling club to provide an invoice for the applicable amount as per the above-mentioned penalties.
30.7 In the case of forfeits the non-forfeiting team is still required to submit a team sheet for qualification purposes, if team sheets are not completed and submitted than qualifications for that forfeit will not be recorded.
31 Games 31.2 Teams shall sit together on the same bench during matches.
31.3 No one other than players and team officials (coach, manager, league safe officer or sports trainer) are allowed to be within the bench area at any time.
31.4 Each team participating in a match shall provide a scorer, who shall sit together at the scorer’s table, between the teams reserve bench or allocated position, failure to do so may result in disciplinary action as per Rule: 7.5.
31.5 All international games [under 13 to under 18] are required to have sideline officials and shall not commence until sideline officials are present.
31.5.1 If sideline officials have not been appointed, then each club are to provide a sideline official before the game can commence, Note* touch line officials must have obtained the age of 14.
31.5.2 If either club fails to provide a sideline official, then that club will forfeit the game and shall be treated under Rule 30 Forfeits.
23 Accepted 4th November 2019
31.6 Players must report to the touch judge where applicable before entering the field of play when replacing another player.
31.7 Interchange shall not take place once a scrum has been indicated or during the forming of a scrum.
31.8 If Coaches, Managers, club members, supporters, or players run / walk up and down the sidelines during the course of a game than penalties may apply.
31.9 All persons entering the field of play to provide water must have attained the age of 14 years and completed a on league safe course and be registered with the league. Enclosed shoes must be worn at all times when entering the field of play
31.10 All persons entering the field of play to provide a kicking tee must have attained the age of 14 years be registered with the league. Enclosed shoes must be worn at all times when entering the field of play.
31.11 Coaches, managers, Parents or spectators shall not enter the field of play under any circumstances while a game is in progress.
31.12 Under no circumstances is anyone other than Sports Trainers, or League safe officers allowed to enter the field while players are on the field, however If the game has been stopped due to a serious injury, a coach, manager or a parent may enter the field providing approval has been granted by the Ground Manager.
31.13 At full time during finals, no one under any circumstances other than Sports Trainers, or League safe officers allowed on the fields, while players are still on the field
31.14 Players or team officials shall not approach a referee or direct derogatory or abusive remarks towards a referee, touch judge, player, club officials or spectators.
31.15 Club / Team officials and or club members shall always conduct themselves in a professional and courteous manner when entering the office or dealing with officials.
31.16 Clubs shall be accountable for their players, officials, members and supporters, if a club does not take action or assist the league in taking action against bad behaviour by their players, officials, members and supporters than a fine will be placed on the club, the fine shall be determined by the League.
24 Accepted 4th November 2019
32 Coaches:
32.2 Shall have obtained a National Rugby League folio number or has completed the appropriate level coaching course by May 1st, if this is not obtained by the designated dated than the coach will be directed to stop coaching immediately.
32.3 Shall have obtained and be able to present a suitability card on demand or provide a copy of a Volunteer Blue Card Application form.
32.4 Shall have registered online through their club Website with NRL/QRL prior to Trial 1.
32.5 Shall be registered with their club
32.6 Coaches who are not registered with their club as per the requirements by Trial 1 will not be able to take up their positions with the team.
32.7 Coaches who allow unregistered or suspended players to take the field shall be suspended for a period of one [1] month or be requested to appear before a disciplinary tribunal.
32.8 Coaches who are not allocated to or listed on team sheets, or who participate with a team, are not fully registered with the League or, on line will result in the team losing points and may be required to appear before a disciplinary tribunal.
32.9 Coaches, careers or any other person working with or caring for players prior to or during training, matches or while on tour are prohibited from partaking of alcohol or drugs, and have been found to have done so shall be banned from holding any position within the Townsville junior rugby league indefinitely.
32.10 Coaches shall wear closed in footwear while officiating
32.11 Coaches, are to remain seated or standing beside their players’ reserve bench adjacent the scorer’s table.
32.12 If the league receives complaints from game stakeholders e.g. (referees, parents, field marshals etc.) in relation to a coach’s behaviour / actions the league shall request the coach appear at a disciplinary tribunal.
32.13 Coaches shall not approach or talk to a match official in relation to their performance at any time.
32.14 Coaches, are to ensure that parents, spectators or anyone not participating in the game do not sit on the player’s bench or stand within the immediate area.
32.15 Coaches, will be recognised as club officials and are required to monitor and deal with bad behaviour of parents and spectators associated with their team / club.
32.16 Coaches, who breach the rules of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League shall be requested to appear at a disciplinary tribunal.
25 Accepted 4th November 2019
33 Managers:
33.2 Shall have obtained and be able to present a suitability card on demand or provide a copy of a Volunteer Blue Card Application form.
33.3 Shall have registered online through their club Website with NRL/QRL prior to Round 1.
33.4 Shall be registered with their club
33.5 Managers who are not registered with the League as per the requirements by Round 1 will not be able to take up their positions with the team.
33.6 Managers who allow unregistered players to take the field shall be requested to appear before a disciplinary tribunal.
33.7 Managers who are not allocated to or listed on team sheets, or who participate with a team, are not fully registered with the League or, on line will result in the team losing points and may be required to appear before a disciplinary tribunal.
33.8 Managers, careers or any other person working with or caring for players prior to or during training, matches or while on tour are prohibited from partaking of alcohol or drugs, and have been found to have done so shall be banned from holding any position within the Townsville junior rugby league indefinitely.
33.9 Managers shall wear closed in footwear while officiating
33.10 Managers, are to remain seated or standing beside their players’ reserve bench adjacent the scorer’s table.
33.11 If the league receives complaints from game stakeholders e.g. (referees, parents, field marshals etc.) in relation to a manager’s behaviour / actions the league shall request the manager appear at a disciplinary tribunal.
33.12 Managers shall not approach or talk to a match official in relation to their performance at any time.
33.13 Managers are to ensure that parents, spectators or anyone not participating in the game do not sit on the player’s bench or stand within the immediate area.
33.14 Managers will be recognised as club officials and are required to monitor and deal with bad behaviour of parents and spectators associated with their team / club.
33.15 Managers who breach the rules of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League hall be requested to appear at a disciplinary tribunal.
26 Accepted 4th November 2019
34 Sports Trainers:
34.2 Have completed a NRL Registered first aid course 34.3 Shall have obtained and be able to present a suitability card on demand or provide a copy of a Volunteer Blue Card Application form. 34.4 Shall have registered online through their club Website with NRL/QRL prior to Round 1. 34.5 Shall be registered with their club 34.6 Sports Trainers who are not registered with their club as per the requirements by Round 1 will not be able to take up their positions with the team. 34.7 Sports Trainers who are not allocated to or listed on team sheets, or who participate with a team, are not fully registered with the League or on line will result in the team losing points and may be required to appear before a disciplinary tribunal. 34.8 It is the responsibility of the Sports Trainer to call an Ambulance if required and provide them with the following information: - a. The name of the grounds and address b. The gate number they should come to 1. TDJRL – gate 1 services the mini fields field 3 and northern end field 2 2. TDJRL – gate 2 services the northern of field 1 3. TDJRL – gate 3 services the southern ends of field 1 and 2 c. The condition of the player and any other relevant information required by the operator
34.9 Sports Trainers, careers or any other person working with or caring for players prior to or during training, matches or while on tour are prohibited from partaking of alcohol or drugs, and have been found to have done so shall be banned from holding any position within the Townsville junior rugby league indefinitely. 34.10 Sports Trainers shall wear a designated fluorescent Blue (Level 1) or Orange (Level 2) shirt displaying a QRL Logo identifying them as sports trainers. 34.11 Sports trainers shall wear closed in footwear while officiating 34.12 Sports Trainers when not running water or attending players are to remain standing beside their players’ reserve bench adjacent the scorer’s table. 34.13 If the league receives complaints from game stakeholders e.g. (referees, parents, field marshals etc.) in relation to a sports trainer’s behaviour / actions the league shall request the sports trainer appear at a disciplinary tribunal. 34.14 Sports Trainers who are found running / walking up and down the sidelines during the course of a game will be advised of rule 32.12 in the first instance and if continues they may be asked to leave the grounds: 34.15 Sports Trainers may enter the field of play at any time to administer first aid or to provide assistance. 34.16 Sports Trainers shall not approach or talk to a match official in relation to their performance at any time. 34.17 Sports Trainers are to ensure that parents, spectators or anyone not participating in the game do not sit on the player’s bench or stand within the immediate area. 34.18 Sports Trainers and League Safe Officers will be recognised as club officials and are required to monitor and deal with bad behaviour of parents and spectators associated with their team / club. 34.19 Sports Trainers who breach the rules of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League shall be requested to appear at a disciplinary tribunal.
27 Accepted 4th November 2019
35 League First Aide Officers
35.2 Shall have completed an online league first aid course 35.3 Shall have obtained and be able to present a suitability card on demand or provide a copy of a Volunteer Blue Card Application form. 35.4 Shall have registered online through their club Website with NRL/QRL prior to Round 1. 35.5 First responders who are not registered with their club as per the requirements by Round 1 will not be able to take up their positions with the team. First responders who are not allocated to or listed on team sheets, or who participate with a team, are not fully registered with the League or, on line will result in the team losing points and may be required to appear before a disciplinary tribunal. 35.6 It is the responsibility of the first responders or League Safe officer to report that an ambulance is on its way and obtain a key for the appropriate gate, wait and escort the ambulance into and out of the grounds, then return the key. 1. Keys for gate 1 and 2 available at the main office 2. Key for gate 3 is available at the southern end ticket office. 35.7 First responders, careers or any other person working with or caring for players prior to or during training, matches or while on tour are prohibited from partaking of alcohol or drugs, and have been found to have done so shall be banned from holding any position within the Townsville junior rugby league indefinitely. 35.8 First responders shall wear a designated fluorescent Green shirt displaying a QRL Logo identifying them as a first responder. 35.9 First responders shall wear closed in footwear while officiating 35.10 First responders when not running water or attending players are to remain standing beside their players’ reserve bench adjacent the scorer’s table. 35.11 If the league receives complaints from game stakeholders e.g. (referees, parents, field marshals etc.) in relation to a league first aid officer’s behaviour / actions the league shall request the League first aid officer appear at a disciplinary tribunal. 35.12 First responders who are found running / walking up and down the sidelines during a game will be advised of rule 33.13 in the first instance and if continues they may be asked to leave the grounds: 35.13 First responders are only permitted to enter the field of play while their team is in possession of the football, unless a player is down injured. 35.14 First responders are only to provide players with water or assistance (no coaching will be permitted) coaches are allowed on the field in under 6 and under 7 grades to direct players only, any negative interaction with the referee will see the game stopped until the coach leaves the field, in this instance the incident shall be referred to the League. 35.15 No more than one first responder per team will be permitted on the field at any one time while the game is in progress or a combination of league safe, first responders or sports trainer. 35.16 An additional league safe, first responder or sports trainer may enter the field of play only while goal conversions are taking place. 35.17 First responders shall not approach or talk to a match official in relation to their performance at any time. 35.18 First responders are to ensure that parents, spectators or anyone not participating in the game do not sit on the player’s bench or stand within the immediate area. 35.19 First responders will be recognised as club officials and are required to monitor and deal with bad behaviour of parents and spectators associated with their team / club. 35.20 First responders who breach the rules of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League shall be requested to appear at a disciplinary tribunal.
28 Accepted 4th November 2019
36 League Safe Officers:
36.2 Shall have completed an online league safe course 36.3 Shall have obtained and be able to present a suitability card on demand or provide a copy of a Volunteer Blue Card Application form. 36.4 Shall have registered online through their club Website with NRL/QRL prior to Round 1. 36.5 League Safe Officers who are not registered with their club as per the requirements by Round 1 will not be able to take up their positions with the team. League Safe Officers who are not allocated to or listed on team sheets, or who participate with a team, are not fully registered with the League or, on line will result in the team losing points and may be required to appear before a disciplinary tribunal. 36.6 It is the responsibility of the League Safe officer or first responder to report that an ambulance is on its way and obtain a key for the appropriate gate, wait and escort the ambulance into and out of the grounds, then return the key. 1. Keys for gate 1 and 2 available at the main office 2. Key for gate 3 is available at the southern end ticket office. 36.7 League Safe Officers, careers or any other person working with or caring for players prior to or during training, matches or while on tour are prohibited from partaking of alcohol or drugs, and have been found to have done so shall be banned from holding any position within the Townsville junior rugby league indefinitely. 36.8 League Safe Officers shall wear a designated fluorescent Yellow shirt displaying a QRL Logo identifying them as league safe officers. 36.9 League Safe Officers shall wear closed in footwear while officiating 36.10 League Safe Officers when not running water or attending players are to remain standing beside their players’ reserve bench adjacent the scorer’s table. 36.11 If the league receives complaints from game stakeholders e.g. (referees, parents, field marshals etc.) in relation to a safe officer’s behaviour / actions the league shall request the League Safe Officer appear at a disciplinary tribunal. 36.12 League Safe Officers who are found running / walking up and down the sidelines during the course of a game will be advised of rule 340.12 in the first instance and if continues they may be asked to leave the grounds: 36.13 League Safe Officers are only permitted to enter the field of play while their team is in possession of the football, unless a player is down injured. 36.14 League Safe Officers are only to provide players with water or assistance (no coaching will be permitted) coaches are allowed on the field in under 6 and under 7 grades to direct players only, any negative interaction with the referee will see the game stopped until the coach leaves the field, in this instance the incident shall be referred to the League 36.15 No more than two League Safe Officers per team will be permitted on the field at any one time while the game is in progress or a combination of league safe officer, first responder or sports trainer. 36.16 An additional league safe officer, first responder or sports trainer may enter the field of play only while goal conversions are taking place. 36.17 League Safe Officers shall not approach or talk to a match official in relation to their performance at any time. 36.18 League Safe Officers are to ensure that parents, spectators or anyone not participating in the game do not sit on the player’s bench or stand within the immediate area. 36.19 League Safe Officers will be recognised as club officials and are required to monitor and deal with bad behaviour of parents and spectators associated with their team / club. 36.20 League Safe Officers who breach the rules of the Townsville and District Junior Rugby League shall be requested to appear at a disciplinary tribunal.
29 Accepted 4th November 2019
APPENDIX A
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR OFFICIALS / SPECTATORS
1. All persons attending matches controlled by the League do so with the permission and license of the League and not otherwise.
2. At the time of registration or at some other time, all carers of players, coaches, trainers and other persons are to be handed a copy of this Code.
3. At such time carers, coaches, trainers and other persons must agree to be bound by this Code prior to acceptance of registration of their child or themselves.
4. No person/s attending a match controlled by the League shall:
4.1. Use offensive or obscene language to any player, coach, referee, touch judge, official or other spectator; 4.2. Enter the Field of Play during the course of a match without the prior approval of the Ground Manager appointed by the home club and/or league; 4.3. Dispute the decision of a referee or touch judge either during or after a match; 4.4. Assault or act with aggression to any person/s; 4.5. Behave in a way contrary to this Code of Conduct and/or the spirit of the game; 4.6. Behave in a way which disturbs the enjoyment of the match by any other person/s, or brings discredit to the home club and/or league; 4.7. Act in such a way as to exhibit racial intolerance, by language or other conduct, to any other person/s; 4.8. Refuse to accept the reasonable direction of the Ground Manager, official of the home club and/or league, or official of the team/club which that person/s is supporting.
5. Any person/s contravening Rule 4 may be reported by the Ground Manager to the Team Manager or other official of the team which that person/s is supporting. Where a team does not have a Team Manager present, a request or direction from the Ground Manager to any official of the team or the team’s club shall be regarded as a direction to the Team Manager for the purposes of this Code.
6. The Ground Manager and/or Team Manager must advise the offending person/s of the relevant breach of the Code. The Ground Manager must note the details of their report to the Team Manager on the reverse of the team sheet.
7. In the event that the inappropriate conduct continues, the Ground Manager and/or Team Manager may request the offender/s to immediately leave the ground. This should also be noted on the team sheet.
8. In the event the person/s refuses to obey the direction of the Ground Manager and/or Team Manager, the Ground Manager may direct the referee to terminate the match. In the event that the match is so terminated, the club’s and/or league’s committee may, at its absolute discretion award the competition points to the non-offending team, or declare that neither side shall be awarded competition points for that match.
9. Clubs are responsible for the conduct of their players, parents/carers of players, coaches, officials and spectators.
10. Clubs who do not exercise control over their players, parents/carers of players, coaches, officials or spectators may be called upon by the league to accept responsibility for their actions and the penalties that may apply (in addition to penalties which may be imposed by the league’s judiciary):
30 Accepted 4th November 2019
APPENDIX B
REPRESENTATIVE PLAYERS CODE OF BEHAVIOUR
It is a Townsville and District Junior Rugby League requirement that all representative players and officials always abide by the following Code of Behaviour while representing the League.
1. Be friendly and courteous always
2. Act in a proper manner
3. Exercise self-control and do not be persuaded by your peers
4. No smoking
5. No partaking in alcohol or prohibited substances
6. Do not use derogatory, discriminative or abusive language on or off the field
7. Do not deface or damage property belonging to others
8. Always be punctual
9. Dress appropriately at all times
10. Obey and respect directions given by officials
11. Be responsible for your own property
12. Ensure rubbish is always placed in bags or bins
13. Remain seated and respect the bus driver’s requests when travelling on buses
14. Consider others when being accommodated in motels
Failure to abide by the above code of behaviour will result in disciplinary action being taken.
31 Accepted 4th November 2019
APPENDIX C TOWNSVILLE AND DISTRICT JUNIOR RUGBY LEAGUE ANTI-BULLYING POLICY 1. Statement of Intent Townsville and District Junior Rugby League (TDJRL) is committed to providing a safe, caring and friendly environment for all our players and members. TDJRL supports and embraces the notion that all persons shall always be provided with dignity and respect. Bullying is unacceptable and shall be treated as a serious matter. Should bullying occur, it is incumbent upon all associated with our League to ‘tell’ what is happening and more importantly have knowledge that bullying incidents will be dealt with promptly and effectively. We are a ‘telling league’ that does not tolerate bullying. 2. What Is Bullying? Bullying is unwelcomed behaviour experienced by a person. This unwelcomed behaviour could take the form of physical attacks, verbal abuse, teasing, name calling, intimidating/derogatory physical (hand) signals, drawings, or purposely being excluded from activities. Unwelcomed behaviour may also be directed towards another person within social media such as Facebook. 3. Bullying can be but is not just limited too ➢ Attributes - Being taunted for having a different build or physically disadvantaged in any way; ➢ Emotional - Being unfriendly, excluding, tormenting (e.g. threats of violence, threatening gestures); ➢ Physical - Pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence; ➢ Racist - Racial taunts, graffiti & gestures; ➢ Sexual - Unwanted physical contact or sexually abusive comments; ➢ Homophobic - Because of, or focussing on the issue of sexuality; ➢ Verbal - Name-calling, sarcasm, spreading rumours & teasing; and ➢ Cyber – Misuse of all areas of internet/social media, such as email, internet chat room, Facebook, snapchat etc. And misuse of electronic devices such as digital cameras, mobile phone streaming etc.
4. Why is it important to respond to Bullying? Everybody has the right to be treated with dignity and respect. Bullying hurts, no one deserves to be a victim of bullying. 5. Policy and Procedure 1. Any person reporting bullying shall be protected and supported. 2. Those that have knowledge/information concerning instances of bullying shall refer the matter to TDJRL Board Executive: President – Bert Petersen; [email protected]
Secretary – Renee Ashleford; [email protected]
Treasurer – Sharon Beaumont; [email protected]
3. Any player or person who feels they are being bullied and or alternatively have information that bullying is occurring, shall be given the time and opportunity to explain what is happening and be reassured they are right to “tell.” 4. The bullying behaviour must be investigated, and outcomes identified within 14 days from receipt of initial information & if necessary, police will be consulted. 5. All energies must also be undertaken to identify educational programmes and processes to assist in rehabilitating and modifying a bully’s behaviour. 6. If the behaviour cannot be rehabilitated, then the TDJRL Board may suspend or deregister the player/person concerned at the absolute discretion of the Board. This decision would be final.
32 Accepted 4th November 2019
7. In all cases, the TDJRL Board executive shall appoint an investigative team or investigator that shall undertake all necessary inquiries and investigations and carry out remedial action as is deemed necessary. However, in all cases the investigative priorities shall be three-fold a) immediately stop bullying; b) reform the behaviour of the bully; and c) protect victims and informers. 8. All investigations are to be treated in strict confidence and the executive TDJRL Board shall only be able to access records of bullying complaints. 9. All players, parents, guardians, volunteers, team and club officials are to make it known to all concerned that bullying will not be tolerated. It shall be emphasised that anyone can be the victim of bullying and that being bullied is not a sign of weakness and does not make the victim a less valuable person.
6. Prevention 1. All players, parents, guardians, volunteers, team and club officials shall have knowledge and comply with this policy; 2. A copy of this document shall be available to every registered player; 3. A copy of this document shall be available to every registered official; 4. Copy of this document published on TDJRL social media and Web pages; 5. Have open discussions about bullying and why it matters; 6. Utilise the Senior Players Group to assist in selling the message; 7. Educating our team officials about bullying and how to deal with it; 8. Making sure we take the matter of bullying at any level serious; 9. Respect every individual’s feelings and views; 10. Support everyone, including bullies to understand the seriousness of this problem; & 11. Promote the NRL Tackle Bullying Hand – See attachment one
Here is the NRL Tackle Bullying Hand. Follow each step-in order if you or a friend, classmate or teammate is experiencing bullying. Remember bullying is never acceptable and is not something you have to put up with.
Step One, Stand Strong - Imagine you are a goal post on an NRL field, it stands strong and upright and can withstand the force of the game of Rugby League. Look down at your feet, imagine that they are planted firmly on the ground, like goalposts on a field. Make sure your body is standing upright and tall – even your shoulders and head. A bully will know from your body language if you are confident or not. If you appear confident the bully might back off.
33 Accepted 4th November 2019
Step Two, Stay Calm - Appearing calm and in control is important, particularly as bullies like to get a reaction from you. Stay calm with your body, eyes, and voice. On the inside you will be feeling any number of emotions including sad, angry, lonely or frustrated. This is all very normal and understandable. If you stay calm though the bully doesn’t get the reaction they want. The bullying might stop as a result.
Step Three, Respond Confidently - It is important to respond to bullies in a strong, clear voice. You should let them know that you would like the bullying to stop. Practise this skill at home in the mirror or to a teddy bear. It is important to choose your words carefully as you do not want to make the situation worse. Be polite and keep the statement short. Examples could include “Please stop bullying me I don’t like it” or “I would like the bullying to stop”. This gives the bully an opportunity to correct their own behaviour or put themselves in your shoes.
Step Four, Walk Away - It is important for victims of bullying to walk away and remove themselves from an unsafe situation. Walk away in a confident manner and never stay in a situation where you think you are at risk.
Step Five, Report - There are several reasons why ½ of children who are bullied do not report it. It could be that the victim is scared that reporting will make it worse. No one should have to put up with bullying and you are encouraged to tell two trusted adults about what you are experiencing. These adults could include your classroom teacher, parents, family members or a coach. If you are unsure about who to report to then you can also contact the Kids Helpline 1800 551 800.
34 Accepted 4th November 2019
APPENDIX D
Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Smoke Free Policy
The Townsville and District Junior Rugby League recognises that passive smoking is hazardous to health and those non- smoking club members and visitors have the right to be protected from exposure to tobacco smoke.
Accordingly, the following policy shall apply to all club facilities, functions, meetings and activities undertaken by the club and will apply to all members, officials, players and club visitors.
Facilities All club facilities are to be completely smoke free and shall include: • The social rooms inclusive of bar, kitchen, meeting room, toilets and storage area • Player change rooms inclusive of warm up area, toilets and showers, medical room and property room.
Cigarettes will not be sold (including vending machines) at any time at or by the club
Players, Officials & Coaches Coaches, players, trainers, volunteers and officials will refrain from smoking and remain smoke free while involved in an official capacity for the club, on and off the field.
Functions All club functions including social and fund raising events and meetings are to be completely smoke free: • Ashtrays will be removed from all club facilities. • Cigarette butt bins will be provided at outdoor locations for smokers to dispose of cigarette butts before entering/ re-entering smoke free areas at club facilities • Smokers leaving the designated licensed area of the clubs social rooms will not be permitted to take alcohol from that area.
All club functions held away from the club facilities are to be completely smoke free and shall require an assurance from the venue management of compliance with the club policy before a booking is confirmed by: • Removing all ashtrays from venue where function is to be held • Enforcing a smoke free policy during the function • Not selling cigarettes (including vending machines) at any time during the function.
Invitations and advertising for all functions, meetings and events will be promoted as smoke free.
Non-compliance All club committee members will enforce the smoke free policy and any non-compliance will be handled according to the following process: • Explanation of the club policy to the person/people concerned, including identification of the areas in which smoking is permitted • Continued non-compliance with the policy should be handled by at least two committee members who will use their discretion as to the action taken, which may include asking the person/ people to leave the club facilities or function.
Policy Promotion The club will promote the smoke free policy regularly by:
35 Accepted 4th November 2019
• Putting a copy of the policy in club newsletters, notice boards, website and printed member/player information • Displaying a copy of the policy in the club social rooms • Periodic announcements to members at functions.
The club recognises the importance of educating club members, particularly players, of the benefits of implementing a smoke free policy and will endeavour to provide information to assist this process.
The club will actively participate in the Australian Drug Foundation’s Good Sports program with an ongoing priority to achieve Level 3 accreditation.
Policy Review This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant to club operations and reflects both community expectations and legal requirements.
36 Accepted 4th November 2019
APPENDIX E ALCOHOL / DRUG FREE POLICY (Alcohol, Illegal Drugs, Smoking & Safe Transport) Townsville and District Junior Rugby League
1. PURPOSE This policy outlines our league’s position on providing an alcohol free and smoke free environment to ensure the league continues to provide a safe and healthy place for families to play and enjoy Rugby League. The purpose of this policy is to also ensure the league committee and league members understand the league’s position regarding illegal drugs and how it will respond to a drug-related incident within its jurisdiction. This policy assists our league to: • Meet its duty of care in relation to the health and safety of our members, volunteers and visitors who attend any league training, games, special events, functions and other activities. • Uphold the reputation of the league, our sponsors and partners.
This policy applies to all our members, volunteers and visitors.
2. ALCOHOL Townsville and District Junior Rugby League is alcohol free. We do not permit the consumption of alcohol at league related events and activities including meetings, after training or games, end of season/presentation functions, sponsors’ functions, trivia nights and other fundraising events. We understand alcohol misuse can lead to unsafe or unacceptable behaviour, drink-driving and other alcohol-related harm.
Our league will ensure: • Alcohol is not advertised, promoted, served or consumed at any league games, events, functions or activities. • Alcohol is not brought into the league premises and grounds during league games, events, functions or activities i.e. no BYO. • Committee members, members, players and officials will not compete, train, coach or officiate if affected by alcohol or other drugs. • Any person who comes to league-related activities and seems intoxicated will be asked to leave and provided with options for safe transport from our club, where available. Police may be contacted to remove the person, if required. (For the purposes of this policy, a person is defined as being in a state of intoxication if his or her speech, balance, co-ordination or behaviour is noticeably affected and there are reasonable grounds for believing that this is the result of the consumption of alcohol.) • Our league will avoid providing awards (e.g. at end of season presentations) and fundraising prizes that have an emphasis on alcohol. • Alcohol sponsorship, brands and products are not sought, promoted or advertised by the league and are not placed on club apparel. • Alcohol is not provided as an award to a player or official for any reason. • League organised trips, particularly end of season player trips strictly adhere to responsible behaviour in accordance with the principles of this policy and the values of the league.
37 Accepted 4th November 2019
3. SMOKING Townsville and District Junior Rugby League is smoke free. We understand the harmful effects of smoking on health, fitness and performance in sport and that passive smoking (second-hand tobacco smoke) is also hazardous to health. Non-smokers should be protected from the involuntary inhalation of tobacco smoke at our games, events, functions and other activities.
Our league will ensure: • All events will be promoted as smoke-free, regardless of where they are held. • Members, volunteers and visitors will know we are a smoke free club and will abide by our league policy. • No-smoking signage and/or signage promoting events as smoke-free will be displayed around the league and at games, events or functions (where possible).
4. ILLEGAL DRUGS Illegal drugs are defined as “a substance that is not permitted to be taken or used according to state or national laws such as cannabis (marijuana), amphetamines (speed and “ice”), ecstasy, cocaine, heroin and a range of new psycho- active substances known as synthetic drugs. This policy does not apply to pharmaceutical drugs or performance enhancing drugs (unless they are captured in the above definition). Townsville and District Junior Rugby League does not allow the use, distribution or selling of illegal drugs by any league member or any visitors within our league’s jurisdiction. The committee will investigate all illegal drug-related concerns or incidents in a timely and discreet manner. Once all relevant facts and circumstances are known, the president will recommend appropriate approaches and/or disciplinary measures to the league committee based on the guiding principles outlined in league document “Responding to Illegal Drugs”.
5. SAFE TRANSPORT Townsville and District Junior Rugby League recognises mixing drugs (including prescription medication) with other drugs or alcohol can seriously affect the ability to drive safely. Driving when over the legal blood alcohol limit is illegal and hazardous to individuals and the wider community. If any committee members, members, players or officials are suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or other drugs, our league will take steps to help them get home safely. For example, offer them a ride home or call a taxi or sober person to collect them.
6. PROMOTING THIS POLICY Our league will: • Educate members, volunteers and guests about our policy and the benefits of having such a policy. • Ensure this policy is easily accessible and will promote it via [our website, newsletters, social media, announcements during events and functions]. • Use our social media platforms to actively demonstrate our league position in relation to alcohol and smoke free environments. • Actively participate in the Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Good Sports program with an ongoing priority to [achieve/maintain] the highest Good Sports accreditation.
7. NON-COMPLIANCE Our league will respond to all breaches of this policy. Any disciplinary measures imposed under our policy must:
38 Accepted 4th November 2019
• Be fair and reasonable and will focus on the safety and welfare of those directly and indirectly involved. • Be based on the evidence and information gathered and the impact on the league, other members, players, patrons, visitors and the community. • Consider the age and personal circumstances of the people involved.
8. POLICY REVIEW This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains relevant to club operations and reflects both community expectations and legal requirements.
39 Accepted 4th November 2019
APPENDIX F Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Anti- Discrimination and Equal Opportunities
Our commitment is to eliminate discrimination whether by reason of gender, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or ability and to encourage equal opportunities. The League will ensure that this Policy is communicated to spectators and participants of the League by publishing on the League’s website.
The following policies should be endorsed, enforced and at the heart of all associated club’s activities.
Anti-Discrimination Policy Townsville and District Junior Rugby League is responsible for setting standards and values to apply throughout the game at every level.
Rugby League belongs to, and should be enjoyed by, everyone equally. Our commitment is to eliminate discrimination whether by reason of gender, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or disability.
Equality of opportunity at Townsville and District Junior Rugby League means that in all our activities we will not discriminate or in any way treat anyone less favourably, on grounds of sex, sexual orientation, race, nationality, ethnic origin, colour, religion or disability.
This includes: ➢ The advertisement for volunteers. ➢ The selection of candidates for volunteers. ➢ Training. ➢ External coaching and education activities and awards. ➢ Rugby League development activities. ➢ Selection for teams. ➢ Appointments to honorary positions.
Townsville and District Junior Rugby League will not tolerate sexual or racially based harassment or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal and will work to ensure that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever context it occurs.
Townsville and District Junior Rugby League is committed to the development of the programme of ongoing training and awareness raising events and activities in order to promote the eradication of discrimination within its own organisation and in the wider context, within rugby league as a whole.
40 Accepted 4th November 2019
Equal Opportunities Policy for Clubs
1. General Townsville and District Junior Rugby League is committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and requires all members of whatever level or authority, to abide and adhere to this general principle and the requirements of the Codes of Practice issued by the Equal Opportunities Commission and Commission for Racial Equality. All members are expected to abide by the requirements of the Race Relations Act 1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1986 and Disability Discrimination Act 1995. Specifically, discrimination is prohibited in:
➢ Treating any individual on grounds of gender, colour, marital status, race, nationality or ethnic or national origin, religion, sexual orientated or disability less favourably than others.
➢ Expecting an individual solely on the grounds stated above to comply with requirement(s) for any reason whatsoever related to their membership, which are different to the requirements for others.
➢ Imposing on an individual requirement which are in effect more onerous on that individual than they are on others. For example, this would include applying a condition (which is not warranted by the requirements of the position) which makes it more difficult for members of a particular race or sex to comply than others not of that race or sex.
➢ Victimisation of an individual.
➢ Harassment of an individual (which for the purposes of this policy and the actions and sanction applicable thereto is regarded as discrimination).
➢ Any other act or omission of an act, which has as its effect the disadvantaging of a member against another, or others, purely on the above grounds. Thus, in all the League’s recruitment, selection, promotion and training processes, as well as disciplinary matters etc. – in other words all instances where those in control of members are required to make judgements between them – it is essential that merit, experience, skills and temperament are considered as objectively as possible.
Townsville and District Junior Rugby League commits itself to the immediate investigation of any claims of discrimination on the above grounds and where such is found to be the case, a requirement that the practice cease forthwith, restitution of damage or loss (if necessary) and to the investigation of any member accused of discrimination.
Any member found guilty of discrimination will be instructed to desist forthwith. Since discrimination in its many forms is against the league’s policy, any members offending will be dealt with under the disciplinary procedure.
The league commits itself to the disabled person whenever possible and will treat such members, in aspects of their recruitment and membership, in exactly the same manner as other members, the difficulties of their disablement permitting assistance will be given, wherever possible to ensure that disabled members are helped in gaining access. Appropriate training will be made to such members who request it.
41 Accepted 4th November 2019
Townsville and District Junior Rugby League Complaints Procedure
In the event that any member feels that he or she has suffered discrimination in any way or that the league Policies, Rules or Code of Conduct have been broken should follow the procedures below.
1. They should report the matter to the Club Secretary or another member of the Committee.
Your report should include:
i. Details of what, when, and where the occurrence took place.
ii. Any witness statement and names.
iii. Names of any others who have been treated in a similar way.
iv. Details of any former complaints made about the incident, date, when and to whom made.
v. A preference for a solution to the incident.
2. The League will sit for any hearings that are requested.
3. The League will have the power to:
i. Warn as to future conduct;
ii. Suspension;
Exclude; any person found to have broken the League’s Policies or Code of Conduct.
42 Accepted 4th November 2019
APPENDIX G
Disciplinary Tribunal Committee Reference Guide Preamble: This reference guide focuses on 3 main areas involved with the game of rugby league:
1. League Safe and Sports Trainers 2. Coaches 3. Spectators / others
This guide references three (3) levels of consequence: • Low Range (Abusive) • Medium Range (Threatening) • High Range or Extreme Range (Physical or Violent)
Remember this is only a Reference Guide to assist our Tribunal members and to let the rugby league community know the consequences and the parameters for inappropriate behaviour in our game
Low Range (Abusive) • 1-8 week’s suspension from participating in the game Who Action Examples Coach Verbally abuses match Coach who verbally abused a match official after a game in a non-threatening officials, player’s spectators or way was given a 3-week suspension from participating in the game i.e. Can’t other coaching staff including play, coach or hold any official role in the game for a period of 3 weeks but trainers can attend games
Plays bogus players and / or Coach who verbally abused another coach during and after a game was given unregistered players a 1 year suspended sentence from coaching in the game i.e. He was allowed to continue coaching but had a suspended sentence that would be activated if Makes physical contact with he acted inappropriately in any way during that year players that is non-threatening and / or not considered to be Coach who stood in the road of two players during an altercation after the inflaming a situation such as game and accidently made contact with an opposition player was suspended physically restraining a junior for 6 weeks player that poses a risk to themselves and others Coach who played an unregistered player had his club fined and they lost their competition points despite winning the match and was suspended from coaching for 6 weeks League safe / Verbally abuses match League safe runner made non-threatening contact with a player in a melee Trainer officials, player’s spectators or and received an official warning and a fine on his club other coaching staff including trainers Sports trainer had a verbal altercation with another league safe officer was suspended from participating in the game for 6 weeks with a year’s Makes physical contact with suspended sentence also provided players that is non-threatening and / or not considered to be League safe office who verbally abused a referee was suspended from inflaming a situation such as participating in the game for 4 weeks physically restraining a junior player that poses a risk to themselves and others
Spectators Verbally abuses match Disorderly conduct by a club official at a junior league game (verbal (defined as any officials, player’s spectators or altercation with another club official) 4 weeks’ suspension from participating individual other coaching staff including officially in the game attending a trainers
43 Accepted 4th November 2019 venue Disorderly conduct by a club official at a junior league game (verbal regardless of Makes physical contact with altercation with another club official) 6 weeks’ suspension from participating position held) players that is non-threatening officially in the game and / or not considered to be Includes others inflaming a situation such as Spectator who yelled obscene and derogatory remarks towards a match such as Club or physically restraining a junior official was excluded from attending rugby league for 8 weeks League Office player that poses a risk to Bearers and / or themselves and others Committee members Includes such things as drunken behaviour and obscene language usage
Medium Range (Threatening) • Penalties vary from 2-month suspension / exclusion to 2 years, applied only to the Division where the incident occurs Who Action Example Coach Threatens match officials, players, spectators, other Coach was charged with bring the game into coaching staff with physical violence disrepute for going to the referees room after the game to threaten the referee and was suspended Play bogus players and unregistered players knowingly from participating in the game for a period of 9 and not an isolated case months i.e. he was not allowed to have any active involvement in the game for 9 months Dealt with by the League under QRL Rules Coach who threatened and intimidated a coach at the conclusion of a match was suspended for a period of 1 year with another year suspended i.e. was not allowed to coach for 1 year
Coach who player an unregistered in a senior game was given 1 year’s suspension from participating in the game i.e. Can’t play, coach or hold any official role in the game for a period of 1 year but can attend games
Coach you played a bogus player in a senior game was given a 1 year’s suspension from participating in the game i.e. Can’t play, coach or hold any official role in the game for a period of 1 year but can attend games
League safe / Threatens match officials, players, spectators, other League safe runner had a minor physical altercation Trainer coaching staff with physical violence with another trainer in a senior’s finals match and was suspended from participating in the game for a Dealt with by the League under QRL Rules period of 1 year
League safe officer who abused and threatened a match during a match and was suspended from participating in the game for 6 months
Spectators Threatens match officials, players, spectators, other Disorderly conduct by a spectator at a junior rugby (defined as any coaching staff with physical violence league match received a 1 year warning off with a individual further year suspended attending a Dealt with by the League under QRL Rules venue A spectator who abused and threatened a match regardless of official at the end of a senior match was warned off position held) for 1 year
Includes others Spectator who approached a match official in a such as Club or threatening way was warned off from attending League Office QRL venues for a period of 5 months Bearers and / or
44 Accepted 4th November 2019
Committee Threatening abuse by an office bearer of a club to members another club office bearer resulted in a 1.5-year suspension from participating in the game of rugby league
High Range (Physical) • Penalties vary from 2 years to 10 years’ suspension / expulsion from the game of rugby league can be applied state-wide Who Action Example Coach Physical violence displayed towards a match officials, Coach who threatened physical violence to a referee players, spectators, or coaching staff after a game and went to their dressing room and had been effectively locked out was given a 3.5 year The warning off or exclusion period from the game should suspension from participating in the game also be applied in these cases Coach who physically threatened and physically Dealt with by the League under QRL Rules assaulted a match official was warned off for 10 years i.e. The person is not allowed to attend any match held under the control /auspices of the QRL for a period of 10 years
Coach who played a bogus player for the second time in a season was suspended from participating in the game for 5 years League safe / Physical violence displayed towards a match officials, Trainer who physically threatened and physically Trainer players, spectators, or coaching staff assaulted a match official was warned off for 10 years i.e. The person is not allowed to attend any Dealt with by the League under QRL Rules match held under the control /auspices of the QRL for a period of 10 years
Spectators Threatens a match official, players, spectators, other Spectator abused and physically threatened an officer (defined as any coaching staff with physical violence bearer of a club and a match official and was warned individual off for 5 years attending a Dealt with by the League under QRL Rules venue Spector entered the field of play and approached and regardless of threatened an opposition player and was warned off position held) for 2 years
Includes others Spector who initiated and had a serious physical such as Club or altercation with another spectator was warned off for League Office 10 years – Criminal charges were also initiated Bearers and / or Committee Spectator who displayed serious disorderly conduct members and physical violence resulting in police intervention was warned off for life
Spectator who displayed physical violence to another stakeholder way from the game (not at a rugby league venue) was suspended indefinitely from the game and their children deregistered for the remainder of the league season awaiting results of a police investigation
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APPENDIX H
JUNIOR LEAGUE LAWS UNDER 6 TO UNDER 12 6 & 7 YEARS The Laws of the International Game of Rugby League shall apply in the 6 & 7 years age groups subject to the following modifications, where applicable.
GENERAL (1) Classification of groups is by age. Age applies as on January 1 of each year.
(2) Players, in each age level of competition, must be of the same age group. Players are not to play “up an age” (to a maximum of one age group) or in higher age groups without parental approval. Where combined age competitions exist state, governing bodies may apply playing criteria.
TEAM/PLAYING TIME (3) Maximum number of players on the field at any one time is 6. When more than 6 players are in attendance at a match then all players MUST play in accordance with Law 6. Where possible, team numbers should not exceed 10, in order to allow maximum opportunity for all players to participate in game time.
(4) The minimum number of players allowed on the field per team per match is 4. Should less than 4 players be present then, for safety reasons, the match is to be forfeited. A game must not commence if there are fewer players available for either team than the minimum number stipulated. During a game, should the number of players on the field for a team fall below the stipulated minimum number, and the team has no further replacements that can be used, the game must be forfeited, with the following exceptions:
(5) If the number falls below the stipulated minimum because of – (a) AN INJURY, the game can continue for the 3 minute injury period but must be forfeited if the player does not return; (b) A PLAYER BEING ‘REPLACED’ FOR MISCONDUCT, for the remainder of that period only. The game can continue at least until the end of that period. (This does not apply if the player is ‘replaced’ for the remainder of the match.) (C) All matches are to be played over four eight (8) minute quarters with a one (1) minute interval between quarters. This may be extended to 3 minutes for half time.
(6) Each player is to play a MINIMUM OF TWO UNBROKEN QUARTERS of eight (8) minutes. [This is a MINIMUM playing time only and, should numbers allow, all present should be given a maximum amount of time possible on-field.] See Pg. 33 for further clarification.
(7) A player may be temporarily replaced if injured - but, for a maximum of three (3) minutes at any one time. If the three minute period is exceeded the replacement is permanent (for the purpose of compliance with Law 6). The replacement player shall play another unbroken period of play (to comply with Law 6). NOTE: Temporary replacement of three (3) minutes is to count as part of the injured player’s playing time. (Refer to Law 6). The injured player may return to the field later in the match if able to do so. FIELD/BALL
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(8) The field at ages 6 and 7 years measures 40 metres x 20 metres. A full description is in Appendices under “Size of Field/Field of Play”.
(9) A smaller ball (size 3) is used in the 6 & 7 years age groups (refer to page 9).
TACKLES/TACKLE COUNT (10) Possession is retained for a period of six (6) tackles unless a nullification of the count occurs in that time. The Referee will both signal and call out the number of tackles with the “5th and last” being signalled by the raising of an arm vertically with five fingers fully extended [Reference: International Law; Section 11; Note to Law 6 should be noted here regarding a tackle being completed.]. On the sixth (6th) tackle the Referee will blow the whistle and signal the change of possession in accordance with International Law. The tackle count will commence after each set play or change of possession. Zero tackle occurs as per the International Laws of Rugby League (Glossary Pg. 7, Section 11, Pg. 25, Law 7(c); Section 8, Pg. 18, Law 2. NOTE (1) There is no “stripping” or stealing the ball in any contact situation at any time. NOTE (2) For under 6 years, when a player knocks-on, runs into touch, is tackled into touch, or passes the ball forward to a teammate in the field of play, the Referee shall call “chance” (and then direct the ball to be played) and the number of the tackle advanced by one, so that the team in possession retains possession, other than after the 5th (and last) tackle, at which time a handover will occur. Should a player lose possession forward and an opposing player gain possession, it should be play on, and zero tackle. Should a player knock-on and the ball is gathered by an onside teammate, then the “Chance Rule” shall apply. (International Laws apply to breaches in the in-goal-area).
PLAY THE BALL (11) The play-the-ball shall be as normal in the International Laws. However: (a) No markers are allowed. (b) The Dummy Half (DH) may, on receiving the ball, either pass the ball or run themselves. Should they elect to run, not score and be tackled, then their team forfeits possession. A member of the opposite team will then play the ball for play to recommence. (One Pass Law) (c) At the play-the-ball, no member of the team not in possession is to move forward until the ball is in the hands of the First Receiver or the Dummy Half elects to run or mishandles the ball. Each member of the team not in possession must retire 5 metres from the play-the-ball and any player who is within this area shall be deemed to be offside. Members of the team in possession must retire behind the Dummy Half.
SCRUMS/HANDOVER NOTE: Scrums are not to be formed in the 6 – 12 year age groups. (12) Where an infringement, or an error, has occurred and a scrum normally be formed (in the International Laws), the non-offending team shall play the ball to recommence play, but no closer than 5 metres from the touch line and goal line. 6
Where there has been an infringement involving the Referee, a Touch Judge or a spectator (a mutual infringement), the Referee accidentally blows the whistle, or the ball bursts, the team which would have had the scrum feed (in the International Laws of the Game) will be awarded a play-the-ball. For a mutual infringement, this will be the attacking team (team with the territorial advantage). The initial play-the ball will not be counted for the purposes of the tackle count (i.e. A new set of 6 tackles will begin). NOTE: Refer to page 6 for Chance Rule (Under 6’s only)
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TRY/CONVERSIONS (13) A try is scored in the normal way and is worth 4 points. There are no conversion attempts after a try in the 6 & 7 year age groups.
STARTS/RE-STARTS OF PLAY (14) Following a try, the non-scoring team will re-start play with a tap kick. The ball must be placed on the ground in the centre of the field 5m forward of the non-scoring teams goal line. The ball need not travel any prescribed distance. Ground cannot be made from the tap kick re-start. For other kicks to start or re-start play, the non-kicking team is to retire five (5) metres and, except for a quarter way (i.e. 10m line) optional kick, allow the ball to travel five (5) metres. At penalties and free kicks, the non-kicking team is to retire five (5) metres. The kick off to commence each quarter is by place kick from the centre of the halfway line. The ball must travel at least 5 metres toward the opponent’s goal line and land in the playing field. NOTE: Should a team kick the ball downfield, the Referee will blow the whistle and instruct the team to retake the tap kick re-start in a correct manner.
(15) Penalties for in-goal breaches will be taken 5 metres from the goal line.
KICKING (16) Kicking is NOT ALLOWED in the 6 & 7 year age groups except at - » starts of play - i.e. halfway, goal line and quarter way line; » penalty kicks; » free kicks (these kicks must be tap kicks); NOTE 1: Should a kick (other than the above) be attempted during a match there will be a change of possession at the spot at which the kick was taken unless ADVANTAGE LAW applies. NOTE 2: Any permitted kick must not be a “bomb”. A “bomb” can be regarded as any kick aimed at gaining time for the “chasers”, rather than distance, and to exert pressure on the receiver.
PLAYER MISCONDUCT- SIN BIN/REPLACEMENTS (17) The sin bin does not apply in the 6 & 7 years game. Should a player be guilty of such conduct that it “merits” a suspension from the field, then the Referee is to advise the player’s team captain of the problem and direct that the player be replaced. In this case the offending player would take no further part in the remainder of that quarter or the match (or any other match in any older age group on that day) depending on the Referee’s instruction re quarter or match. A player replaced for a quarter, who resumes playing in a later quarter and is guilty of further misconduct must be dismissed without replacement (International Laws apply here). Any further action would be taken at the discretion of the match’s controlling body. NOTE: Match officials should signal whether a player has been rotated until the end of the period or permanently dismissed for the duration of the match. To differentiate between the two, the Referee will rotate his/her arms several times for a player needing to be rotated; a permanent dismissal shall be signalled as per the International Laws of the Game. 1. SIZE OF FIELD/FIELD OF PLAY 40x20m – 4 Field Matrix ball may either be yellow or white. E. The ball should be inflated to a pressure of approx. 60kpa B C 10 GAME MODEL 1 Pass
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8 & 9 YEARS NOTE The Laws of the International Game of Rugby League shall apply in the 8 & 9 years age groups subject to the following modifications, where applicable.
GENERAL (1) Classification of groups is by age. Age applies as on January 1 of each year.
(2) Where possible, all players should be of the same age group, and play in that age group. Players may not play “up an age group (to a maximum of one age group)” without parental permission. Where combined age competitions exist state governing bodies may apply playing criteria.
TEAM/PLAYING TIME (3) Maximum number of players per team on the field at any one time is 8. Where possible, team numbers should not exceed 12, in order to allow maximum opportunity for all players to participate in game time. At each game all players must play in accordance with Law 6. A game must not commence if there are fewer players available for either team than the minimum number stipulated. During a game, should the number of players on the field for a team fall below the stipulated minimum number, and the team has no further replacements that can be used, the game must be forfeited, with the following exceptions: If the number falls below the stipulated minimum because of – (a) AN INJURY, the game can continue for the 3 minute injury period but must be forfeited if the player does not return; (b) A PLAYER BEING ‘REPLACED’ FOR MISCONDUCT, for the remainder of that period only. The game can continue at least until the end of that period. (This does not apply if the player is ‘replaced’ for the remainder of the match.)
(4) Minimum number of players per team to be on the field per game is 6.
(5) The game is played over four eight (8) minute quarters with a one (1) minute interval between quarters (this may be extended to 3 minutes for half time).
(6) Each player in the team is to play a MINIMUM of TWO UNBROKEN quarters of a match. See Pg. 33 for further clarification.
(7) A player may be temporarily replaced if injured - but, for a maximum of three (3) minutes at any one time. If the three minute period is exceeded the replacement is permanent (for the purpose of compliance with Law 6). Any replacement player, coming on in the first half, shall play out the match (to comply with Law 6). NOTE: Temporary replacement of three (3) minutes is to count as part of the injured player’s playing time (refer to Law 6.) The injured player may return to the field later if able to do so.
FIELD/BALL (8) The field at ages 8 & 9 years measures 68 metres by 30 metres. A full description is in the Appendices under “SIZE OF FIELD”. (9) A smaller ball (size 3) is used in the 8 & 9 years age groups (refer to page 17).
TACKLES/TACKLE COUNT (10) Each team, upon gaining possession, has six (6) tackles during which to maximise the use of this possession unless the tackle count is nullified in that time [Reference : International Law; Section 11, Note to Law 6 should be noted here re tackle completed].
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The tackle count will commence after each set play or change of possession. Zero tackle occurs as per the International Laws of Rugby League (Glossary, pg 7; Section 11, pg 25,Law 7(c); Section 8, pg 18; Law 2 – last paragraph.) The Referee will count the tackles and signal the “5th and last” tackle in a fashion similar to the International Laws prescription. On the sixth tackle, the signal for the change of possession is in accordance with the International Laws. NOTE (1) There is no “stripping” or stealing the ball in any contact situation at any time.
PLAY THE BALL (11) The play-the-ball shall be as normal to the International Laws game except for the following: (a) No marker to be present in the under 8’s game; (b) One marker only should be present in the under 9’s game. The marker is not to touch the ballcarrier or ball or interfere with the play-the-ball in any way. The marker is not to move until the ball has been received by the first receiver - UNLESS the dummy half elects to run, kick or mishandles the ball; (c) The Two Pass Law applies, with the following exemption that applies to ALL parts of the field:
FOR 8 YEARS: The player at First Receiver (FR) will be identified with a vest of one colour (i.e. yellow). FR vests must be used in all 8 years matches, with nominated FR’s to be substantially active in those positions. Players identified with vests are permitted to run from their nominated position, and be tackled before a minimum of two passes is performed, without their team turning over possession (unless it is after the 5th play-the-ball). If any player without the FR vest runs from First Receiver, is tackled in possession without a minimum of two passes being performed, then his/her team will forfeit possession. At a minimum in 8 years matches, players will be required to rotate vests following each half. (i.e. after two quarters.) A player who has worn a vest and rotates with another player, may not wear the vest again during the game. * 12 FOR 9 YEARS: The player at First Receiver (FR) will be identified with a vest of one colour (i.e. yellow) and a player at Dummy Half will be identified with a vest of another colour (i.e. pink). DH and FR vests must be used in all 9 years matches, with nominated DH and FR’s to be substantially active in those positions. Players identified with vests are permitted to run from their nominated position and be tackled before a minimum of two passes is performed, without their team turning over possession (unless it is after the 5th play-the-ball). If any player without the DH vest (including the player nominated as First Receiver) runs from Dummy Half, is tackled in possession without a minimum of two passes being performed, then his/her team will forfeit possession. If any player without the FR vest (including the player nominated as Dummy Half) runs from First Receiver, is tackled in possession without a minimum of two passes being performed, then his/her team will forfeit possession. At a minimum in 9 years matches, players will be required to rotate vests following each half. A player who has worn a vest and rotates with another player, may not wear the vest again during the game. * NOTE: Vested players must be “substantially active” in these positions. Referees shall enforce this Law in the following manner, where there is a need to do so on field by: i) issuing a warning to offending players; ii) if the warning is not heeded, a penalty may be given against the offending team at the ruck, and a warning issued to the coach of the offending team; iii) If warnings continue to go unheeded the Referee may award further penalties, and subsequently write an incident report at the completion of the match. The team may be
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the subject of sanctioning by the League’s governing body under the Code of Conduct. (d) At the play-the-ball, no member of the team not in possession is to move forward until the ball is in the hands of the First Receiver or the Dummy Half elects to run, kick or mishandles the ball. Players of the side not in possession - apart from the marker, must retire five (5) metres from the play-the-ball area. Members of the team in possession must retire behind their Dummy Half. NOTE 1: In the case where a player wearing a vest is injured and leaves the field, the vest may be provided to another player who may only wear the vest until the expiry of that period of play The injured player may not wear the vest again. (Remember - one vest worn once during a match). NOTE 2: A kick in general play can be regarded as a pass if re-gathered by an onside teammate. NOTE 3*: In the event of extra time being played to determine a winner, teams may choose to use the two original DH and FR players in those positions for the first half of extra time, and the two second half vested players in those positions during the second half of extra time.
SCRUMS/HANDOVER NOTE: Scrums are not to be formed in the 6 – 12 year age groups. (12) Where an infringement or an error has occurred – and where the advantage law cannot be applied – the non-offending team shall play-the-ball to recommence play (Note: No closer than 10m from the goal line and 10m from the touchline). Where there has been an infringement involving the Referee, a Touch Judge or a spectator (a mutual infringement), the Referee accidentally blows the whistle, or the ball bursts, the team which would have had the scrum feed (in the International Laws of the Game) will be awarded a play-the-ball. For a mutual infringement, this will be the attacking team (team with the territorial advantage). The initial play-the- ball will not be counted for the purposes of the tackle count (i.e. A new set of 6 tackles will begin).
TRY (13) A try is scored in the normal way and is worth 4 points.
GOALS/CONVERTING A TRY (14) A goal may be attempted ONLY after a try has been scored. The attempt may be taken by either place kick or drop kick. Once a player has attempted a kick at goal (whether successful or not), that player may not attempt another until all others of the same team (on the field at the time) have been given an attempt at a goal. This also applies at the awarding of an additional kick at goal following the awarding of a try when the try-scorer has been fouled in the act of scoring the try. NOTE: In the event that a player, who has already attempted a kick at goal, attempts another kick at goal, prior to all other players (on the field at the time) being given a chance to kick, the points will not be awarded, if successful, and another attempt will not be provided to the team to convert that try. All attempts at goal are taken from immediately in front of the goalposts. There is no minimum distance that the goal kicker is required to go back to from the goal line (as per International Laws). The kicker must, by either place or drop kick, kick the ball between the uprights and over the cross bar of the goalposts. The goal is worth two points. Only approved kicking tees may be used when a goal is attempted using a place kick.
STARTS/RE-STARTS OF PLAY (15) Following a try, (and subsequent conversion attempt) the non-scoring team will re-start play with a tap kick - the ball must be placed on the ground from the centre of the halfway line – the ball need not travel any prescribed distance. Ground cannot be made from the tap kick
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re-start. The initial tackle after the tap kick re-start shall be Tackle 1. The kick off to commence each quarter is by place kick from the centre of the halfway line. The ball must travel at least 5 metres toward the opponent’s goal line and land in the playing field. NOTE: Should a team kick the ball downfield, the Referee will blow the whistle and instruct the team to retake the tap kick re-start in a correct manner. 14 KICKING (16) Goal kicks are prescribed in Law (14). A kick at goal at a penalty is NOT ALLOWED. Kicking, in general play is not allowed in the under 8 years. In the under 9 years, kicking in general play, is allowed - APART from - (a) “bombs” or “high up-and-unders” NOTE: A “bomb” can be regarded as any kick aimed at gaining time for the “chasers”, rather than distance, AND exerting pressure on the receiver. “Bomb-like” kicks are unacceptable at any (and all) phases of play. (b) attempts to score a drop/field goal. If either of these kicks are attempted (unless the ADVANTAGE LAW applies) there will be a change of possession at the spot at which the kick was taken. The Referee will signal the changeover in accordance with International Law. “Chip” punts, grubber kicks and kicks for touch are permissible. A handover (play-the- ball) to the non-kicking team shall be awarded at the point where the ball was kicked out on the full in general play (but no closer than 10 metres from the touchline and goal line).
PLAYER MISCONDUCT – SIN BIN/REPLACEMENTS (17) The sin bin does not apply in the under 8 & 9 years game. Should a player be guilty of such conduct that it “merits” a suspension from the field, then the Referee is to advise the player’s team captain of the problem and direct that the player be replaced. In this case the offending player would take no further part in the remainder of that period or the match (or any other match, regardless of age group, on that day) depending on the Referee’s instruction re period or match. A player – replaced in one quarter, who later resumes in another quarter and is guilty of further misconduct must be dismissed without replacement (International laws apply here). Any further action would be taken at the discretion of the match’s controlling body. NOTE: Match officials should signal whether a player has been rotated until the end of the period or permanently dismissed for the duration of the match. To differentiate between the two, the Referee will rotate his/her arms several times for a player needing to be rotated; a permanent dismissal shall be signalled as per the International Laws of the Game. safety. 3m Figure 1 2m 1.5m B C 18 Minimum Chance Rule 6 Players Per Team No Kicking
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10, 11 & 12 YEARS NOTE The Laws of the International Game of Rugby League shall apply in 10 11 & 12 years subject to the following modifications, where applicable.
GENERAL (1) Classification of groups is by age. Age applies as on January 1 of each year.
(2) Where possible, all players should be of the same age group, and play in that age group. Players may not play (to a maximum of one age group) “up an age group” without parental permission. Where combined age competitions exist state, governing bodies may apply playing criteria.
TEAM/PLAYING TIME (3) Maximum number of players per team on the field at any one time is - (a) eleven (11) at ages 10 & 11 years; (b) thirteen (13) at age 12 years. At each game all players must play in accordance with Law 6. At each game all players must play in accordance with Law 6. A game must not commence if there are fewer players available for either team than the minimum number stipulated. During a game, should the number of players on the field for a team fall below the stipulated minimum number, and the team has no further replacements that can be used, the game must be forfeited, with the following exceptions. If the number falls below the stipulated minimum because of – (i) AN INJURY, the game can continue for the 3 minute injury period but must be forfeited if the player does not return; (ii) A PLAYER BEING ‘REPLACED’ FOR MISCONDUCT, for the remainder of that period only. The game can continue at least until the end of that period. (This does not apply if the player is ‘replaced’ for the remainder of the match.)
(4) Minimum number of players per team to be on the field per game is - (a) eight (8) at ages 10 & 11 years; (b) eleven (11) at age 12 years.
(5) The game is played over two twenty (20) minute periods or halves with a five (5) minute interval between.
(6) Each player in the team is to play a MINIMUM of ONE UNBROKEN HALF of a match (i.e. twenty (20) minutes). See Pg 33 for further clarification. A player, having played an unbroken half of a match and been replaced, may be used in the latter half of a match to replace a player who has also completed an unbroken half or for a player who has been injured or suspended.
TEAM/PLAYING TIME (7) A player may be temporarily replaced if injured - but, for a maximum of three (3) minutes at any one time. If the three minute period is exceeded the replacement is permanent (for the purpose of compliance with Law 6). Any replacement player, coming on in the first half, shall play out the match (to comply with Law 6). The injured player may return to the field later in the match if able to do so. NOTE: Temporary replacement of three (3) minutes is to count as part of the injured player’s playing time (refer to Law 6.) The injured player may return to the field later in the match if able to do so.
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FIELD/BALL (8) The field at ages 10 & 11 years measures 80 metres by 48 metres. A full description is in the Appendices under “SIZE OF FIELD”. The field at 12 years is the International Laws field. i.e. 100 metres by 68 metres.
(9) A smaller ball (size 4) is used in under 10, 11 & 12 years age groups (refer to page 25).
TACKLES/TACKLE COUNT (10) Each team, upon gaining possession, has six (6) tackles during which to maximise the use of this possession unless the tackle count is nullified in that time [Reference : International Law; Section 11, Note to Law 6 should be noted here re tackle completed]. The tackle count will commence after each set play or change of possession. Zero tackle occurs as per the International Laws of Rugby League (Glossary, pg 7; Section 11, pg 25,Law 7(c); Section 8, pg 18; Law 2 – last paragraph.) The Referee will count the tackles and signal the “5th and last” tackle in a fashion similar to the International Laws prescription. On the sixth tackle, the signal for the change of possession is in accordance with the International Laws. NOTE 1: There is no “stripping” or stealing the ball in any contact situation at any time.
PLAY-THE-BALL (11) The play-the-ball shall be as normal to the International Laws game except for the following: (a) One marker only should be present. The marker is not to touch the ball-carrier or ball or interfere with the play-the-ball in any way. The marker is not to move till the ball has been received by the first receiver – UNLESS the Dummy Half (DH) elects to run, kick or mishandles the ball; (b) The Two Pass Law applies, with the following exemption that applies to ALL parts of the field: The player at First receiver (FR) will be identified with a vest of one colour (i.e. yellow) and a player at Dummy Half will be identified with a vest of another colour (i.e. pink). 20 DH and FR vests must be used in all 10-12 Year matches, with nominated DH and FR’s to be substantially active in those positions. Players identified with vests are permitted to run from their nominated position and be tackled before a minimum of two passes is performed, without their team turning over possession (unless it is after the 5th play-the-ball). If any player without the DH vest (including the player nominated as First Receiver) runs from Dummy Half, is tackled in possession without a minimum of two passes being performed, then his/her team will forfeit possession. If any player without the FR vest (including the player nominated as Dummy Half) runs from First Receiver, is tackled in possession without a minimum of two passes being performed, then his/her team will forfeit possession. At a minimum, in ages 10 and 11 years, players will be required to rotate vests following each period (i.e. half) of play. (The rotation of vests in the 12 year age group shall be optional. If, however the vests are rotated, then all other elements of Law 11 shall apply as per 10 and 11 year age groups). A player, who has worn a vest and rotates with another player, may not wear the vest again during the game. * NOTE 1: Vested players must be “substantially active” in these positions. Referees shall enforce this Law in the following manner, where there is a need to do so on field by: i) issuing a warning to offending players; ii) if the warning is not heeded, a penalty may be given against the offending team at the ruck, and a warning issued to the coach of the offending team; iii) If warnings continue to go unheeded the Referee may award further penalties, and subsequently write an incident report at the completion of the match. The team may be the subject of sanctioning by the League’s governing body under the Code of Conduct.
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(c) At the play-the-ball, no member of the team NOT IN POSSESSION is to move forward until the ball is in the hands of the FIRST RECEIVER or the Dummy Half elects to run, kick or mishandles the ball. Players of the side not in possession - apart from the marker, must retire five (5) metres from the play the ball area. Members of the team IN POSSESSION must retire behind their Dummy Half. NOTE 1: In the case where a player wearing a vest is injured and leaves the field, the vest may be provided to another player who may only wear the vest until the expiry of that period (i.e. half) of play. The injured player may not wear the vest again. (Remember - one vest worn once during a match). NOTE 2: A kick in general play can be regarded as a pass if re-gathered by an onside teammate. NOTE 3*: In the event of extra time being played to determine a winner, teams may choose to use the two original DH and FR players in those positions for the first half of extra time, and the two second half vested players in those positions during the second half of extra time.
SCRUMS/HANDOVER NOTE: Scrums are not be be formed in the under 10, 11 & 12 years. (12) Where an infringement or an error has occurred – and where the advantage law cannot be applied – the non-offending team shall play-the-ball to recommence play. (Note: No closer than 10m from the goal line and 10 m from the touchline). Where there has been an infringement involving the Referee, a Touch Judge or a spectator (a mutual infringement), the Referee accidentally blows the whistle, or the ball bursts, the team which would have had the scrum feed (in the International Laws of the Game) will be awarded a play-the-ball. For a mutual infringement, this will be the attacking team (team with the territorial advantage). The initial play-the- ball will not be counted for the purposes of the tackle count (i.e. A new set of 6 tackles will begin).
TRY (13) A try is scored in the normal way and is worth 4 points.
GOALS/CONVERTING A TRY (14) FOR 10 AND 11 YEARS A goal may be attempted ONLY after a try has been scored. The attempt may be taken by either place kick or drop kick. Once a player has attempted a kick at goal (whether successful or not), that player may not attempt another until all others of the same team (on the field at the time) have been given an attempt at a goal. This also applies at the awarding of an additional kick at goal following the awarding of a try when the try-scorer has been fouled in the act of scoring the try. NOTE: In the event that a player, who has already attempted a kick at goal, attempts another kick at goal, prior to all other players (on the field at the time) being given a chance to kick, the points will not be awarded, if successful, and another attempt will not be provided to the team to convert that try. Goalposts are those of the International Laws field. Method for use is outlined in Appendices. All attempts at goal are taken from immediately in front of the goalposts. There is no minimum distance that the goal kicker is required to go back to from the goal line (as per International Laws). The kicker must, by either place or drop kick, kick the ball between the uprights and over the cross bar of the goalposts. The goal is worth two points. Only approved kicking tees may be used when a goal is attempted using a place kick.
FOR 12 YEARS Conversion attempts - only after a try has been scored - are to be taken by a place kick only. Once a player has attempted a kick at goal (whether successful or not), that player may not attempt another until all members of the same team (on the field at the time) have been given an attempt at a goal; this
55 Accepted 4th November 2019 also applies at the awarding of an additional kick at goal following the awarding of a try when the try- scorer has been fouled in the act of scoring a try. NOTE: In the event that a player, who has already attempted a kick at goal, attempts another kick at goal, prior to all other players (on the field at the time) being given a chance to kick, the points will not be awarded, if successful, and another attempt will not be provided to the team to convert that try.
NOTE – FOR AGES 10 – 12 YEARS: In the event of extra time being played in Final Series matches, conversion attempts shall be taken in accordance with Law 14 above (i.e. players who have previously attempted a conversion may do so again – in rotation – during extra time). 22 Goalposts are those of the International Laws field. There is no minimum distance that the goal kicker is required to go back to from the goal line (as per International Laws). The position from which the kick will be taken will alter: (a) For a try scored between the touch line and a line 20 metres in-field from touch, the conversion attempt will be taken along the 20 metre line in-field from the touch line. (b) For tries scored between the 20 metre lines inside each touch line, the conversion attempt will be taken in line with where the try was scored (as in International Law). See diagram Pg 26.
STARTS/RE-STARTS OF PLAY (15) Following a try, (and subsequent conversion attempt) the non-scoring team will re-start play with a tap kick – the ball must be placed on the ground from the centre of the halfway line - the ball need not travel any prescribed distance. Ground cannot be made from the tap kick re-start. The initial tackle after the tap kick re-start shall be Tackle 1. The kick off to commence each half is by place kick from the centre of the half way line. The ball must travel at least 10 metres toward the opponent’s goal line and land in the playing field. NOTE: Should a team kick the ball downfield, the Referee will blow the whistle and instruct the team to retake the tap kick re-start in a correct manner.
KICKING (16) Goal kicks are prescribed in Law (14). A kick at goal at a penalty is NOT ALLOWED. Kicking, in general play, is allowed - APART from - (a) “bombs” or “high up-and-unders” NOTE: A “bomb” can be regarded as any kick aimed at gaining time for the “chasers”, rather than distance, AND exerting pressure on the receiver. “Bomb-like” kicks are unacceptable at any (and all) phases of play. (b) attempts to score a drop/field goal. If either of these kicks are attempted (unless the ADVANTAGE LAW applies) there will be a change of possession at the spot at which the kick was taken. The referee will signal the changeover in accordance with International Law. “Chip” punts, grubber kicks and kicks for touch are permissible. A handover (play-the-ball) to the non- kicking team shall be awarded at the point where the ball was kicked out on the full in general play (but no closer than 10 metres from the touchline and goal line). (c) The 40/20 International Law applies (Under 12 Age Division only).
PLAYER MISCONDUCT – SIN BIN/REPLACEMENTS (17) The sin bin does not apply in the 10-12 years game. Should a player be guilty of such conduct that it “merits” a suspension from the field, then the Referee is to advise the player’s team captain of the problem and direct that the player be replaced. In this case the offending player would take no further part in the remainder of that half or the match (or any other match in any older age group on that day)
56 Accepted 4th November 2019 depending on the Referee’s instruction re half or match. A player - replaced in the first half, who later resumes in the second half (e.g. injury replacement) and is guilty of further misconduct must be dismissed without replacement (International Laws apply here). Any further action would be taken at the discretion of the match’s controlling body. NOTE: Match officials should signal whether a player has been rotated until the end of the period or permanently dismissed for the duration of the match. To differentiate between the two, the Referee will rotate his/her arms several times for a player needing to be rotated; a permanent dismissal shall be signalled as per the international Laws of the Game.
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