Rugby Texas

Risk & Safety

Risk and Safety

Securing a safe area for training sessions and matches is important. Programs should make every effort to use adequately sodded or turf surfaces to prevent injuries. Fields must be void of hazards such as broken glass, protruding rocks, sprinkler heads and holes. When examining playing surfaces, size, availability, access for emergency vehicles, available parking, lights, and usage requirements should also be considered.

As a member of USA Rugby, all clubs have access to liability insurance which provides protection in case of property damage or bodily injury to third parties. These parties may include the venue owner, coaches, referees, sponsors, spectators and others. Most venue owners will require this type of insurance before a club is allowed to step on the field of play.

Severe Weather

Use common sense when it comes to severe weather! Early communication is critical, the home team should be in regular contact with the visiting team, the assigned referee, and the Rugby Texas Director of Competitions to confirm match changes, cancellations and or reschedules.

If there is any concerns, questions or disagreement between the parties (home, away & referee) regarding the playing of the match please contact the Rugby Texas Director of Competitions, or Rugby Texas President directly for final resolution.

Safety Guidelines

Rugby Texas adheres to USA Rugby’s Safety Guidelines.

Field Requirements

*Does not apply to beach or social events with modified rules

At least 4 meters of space, that is clear and free from any obstacles such as fencing, stadium walls, concrete surfaces, or anything that would be dangerous for a player to run into or onto, is required to surround the entire playing area.
Field must comply with World Rugby Law 1 – The Ground.
Field must use proper technical zone set up and management All goal posts in the field of play must be padded. All field flags must be break away.
Playing surface should be grass or World Rugby Regulation 22 Certified turf.
Fields are required to be free of debris such as glass, protrusions, divots, etc.

Medical & Safety

Tournaments and events must have the appropriate medical coverage for anticipated tournament size, level of play and participant numbers. Appropriate medical coverage includes, but is not limited to, certified athletic trainer (ATC), a medical area with emergency supplies and ice, and access to an ambulance and hospital (as outlined in the Emergency Action Plan). USA Rugby recommends an on-site ambulance for any event hosting six or more teams.
All events must include an Emergency Action Plan.
We recommend reviewing all World Rugby Player Welfare policies. Please refer to the section “Guidelines” for more information on how to handle specific injuries.

Alcohol

Alcohol sales are prohibited at any youth and high school events.

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