Can I hold contact pads, demonstrate tackles or join in opposed practices with my players?

Q: Can I hold contact pads, demonstrate tackles or join in opposed practices with my players?

No. RFU Regulation 15 says adults must not join in any aspect of contact training with age grade players. That includes: holding contact shields or tackle bags; demonstrating tackling or any contact technique (rucks, mauls, scrums, lineouts); playing in semi-contact or opposed practices. This applies at every age grade up to and including Under 18. The only route for an age grade player to train in contact with adults is the separate process for 17-year-olds approved to play adult rugby (and, with RFU approval, certain academy and player development group players).

Question

Accepted Answer

No. RFU Regulation 15 says adults must not join in any aspect of contact training with age grade players. That includes:

holding contact shields or tackle bags;
demonstrating tackling or any contact technique (rucks, mauls, scrums, lineouts);
playing in semi-contact or opposed practices.

This applies at every age grade up to and including Under 18. The only route for an age grade player to train in contact with adults is the separate process for 17-year-olds approved to play adult rugby (and, with RFU approval, certain academy and player development group players).