HEALTH AND SAFETY IN MINI RUGBY
Please click HERE to view/print the Accident Report Form!

Benefits of Exercise
Exercise is essential for a growing child. Children who take regular exercise are physically healthier. In addition to the physical benefits we aim to provide an environment in which children can learn and advance their social development. It is our goal to make that sporting environment as safe as possible. The following simple tips relate to health and safety.

Mouth guards
All children should wear mouth guards. Children in the older age groups playing contact rugby will not be allowed to participate without a mouth guard. If your child complains it is essential that you as a parent are firm. Explain the reasons and insist on their use. Children adapt and get used to wearing a mouth guard very quickly.

To improve safety this year in age groups playing tackle rugby, the
club is issuing all children in the U9 to Colts teams with an
improved mouthguard which provides better moulding to the teeth. It
is the Signature Type 3 mouthguard, manufactured by Signature
Mouthguards www.signature-mouthguards.com. Please see the fitting
instructions below or consult the Signature Mouthguard website and
follow the instructions carefully. These are "Warm and Fit" NOT
"Boil and Bite" and using boiling water risks losing shape and
strength.

Please note that this mouthguard is NOT SUITABLE for children with
braces and/or orthodontic bands. Please consult your dentist for the
appropriate protection.

Click here for Fitting Instructions for Signature Type 3 Mouthguards

Footwear
All children should wear rugby boots with moulded rubber studs. Younger children may prefer training shoes. Boots Metal Studs are NOT allowed - HKMRFU. Non-metal bladed studs are allowed in mini-rugby.

Hydration
For much of the year Hong Kong is hot and humid. Exercise in this environment requires a significant intake of fluid. Hydration not only makes an individual feel better, it also improves athletic performance and reduces the risk of injury. Thirst is not a very good indicator of the amount of fluid the body needs. If you are thirsty you are already dehydrated. This is especially true of children who learn to suppress thirst. They must be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids. Children should drink water before and during training. They should drink enough to ensure a regular output of dilute urine.

Diet
Sport and exercise can be a good medium to encourage children to lead a healthy lifestyle. They should be actively discouraged from eating an excessive amount of refined carbohydrate. Sweet fizzy drinks, crisps and burgers are junk. Children learn by observing peers and adults. Set them a good example and be firm in enforcing a healthy diet.

Sunburn
Even on overcast days sunburn is a problem in Hong Kong. Use plenty of sun screen and keep children out of direct sunlight when possible.

Injury Risk
Rugby in older age groups is a contact sport. There is always a small risk of injury. Fortunately the vast majority of injuries are minor scratches, cuts and abrasions. It is important that all wounds are treated with respect. They should be thoroughly cleaned with salt water or antiseptic solution.

The risk of more serious injuries is a concern to all parents. The risk of injury is less when children learn the skills in a structured way. They must learn to tackle and be tackled in a safe environment. We strive to avoid physical mismatch and strictly enforce age restrictions. Skills are taught only when the children are physically and mentally ready. Please do not push your child or the coaches to accelerate this process.

In order to minimize the risks of injury it is important that children should maintain a good level of physical fitness. Studies in sports medicine have demonstrated that a child or adult who is physically fit and healthy is significantly less likely to be either ill or injured than an unfit person in the same position. Giving children an appreciation and enjoyment of sport and physical exercise is a significant step in encouraging a healthy lifestyle in later life.

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