What laws, team sizes and pitch sizes apply at each age from Under 13 to Under 18?
Rule- England
- RFU
- Age grade rugby
- Regulation 15
- World Rugby laws
- Under 13-Under 18
- 2026/27
- Coaches
RFU Regulation 15 (effective 1 August 2026) makes its Rules of Play mandatory for clubs, schools and colleges:
| Age | Laws | Max a side | Max pitch | Ball |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 13 | RFU Under 13 Rules of Play (Appendix 7) | 13 | 90m x 60m | 4 |
| Under 14 | RFU Under 14 Rules of Play (Appendix 8) | 15 | 100m x 70m | 4 |
| Under 15 to Under 18 | World Rugby Laws, World Rugby Under 19 variations and RFU Appendix 9 variations | 15 | World Rugby Law 1 | 5 |
- Pitch sizes at Under 13 and Under 14 are maximums plus 5-metre in-goals; the referee and coaches can agree a smaller pitch if safe.
- At Under 13, 6 players are forwards; at Under 14, 8 are.
- Under 13 and below can also play reduced-number games while moving towards full contact.
- Coaches aren't allowed on the pitch during play at Under 13 and Under 14.
- Age grades follow school years: Under 13 = Year 8, Under 14 = Year 9, Under 15 = Year 10, Under 16 = Year 11, Under 17 = Year 12, Under 18 = Year 13. Girls play in two-year bands (Under 14/13, Under 16/15, Under 18/17).
- All players must be registered on GMS each season (new players within 45 days of joining).
Added 21 Oct 2026