About the Game

American Flag Rugby developed an effective and fun method of introducing young players and their parents to the game.

The game is divided into 4 divisions over an eight year period: Owls (Division 4) (entering Kindergarten, and 1st grade, approx. ages 5-6) Falcon (Division 3) (entering 2nd and 3ed grade, approx. ages 7-8) Hawks (Division 2) (entering 4th, 5th, and 6th grades, approx. ages 9-11) Eagles (Division 1) (entering 7-9th grades, ages 12-14).

This 4-division format addresses the significant ability differences within defined age categories, particularly among the younger children. American Flag Rugby has identified age and developmental levels warranted a limited and specific type of game. As well as creating a good environment for the players, the very nature of the divisions proved highly effective in allowing entire families to participate together.

The game develops as the players’ skill levels increase. The youngest groups focus more on fun and rugby concepts. The groups progress to passing and flat defense and move on to a ruck-like simulation for the oldest group. All age groups have a slow introduction to scrums and lineouts and convert tries using drop kicks.

Parents with no previous rugby experience evolve as coaches and administrators as their knowledge of the game grows in parallel with their child’s interest and participation. It has also demonstrated an ability to instill the culture of rugby in household where the parents never played. The value of this kind of organic growth in the overall rugby community should not be underestimated.