When is tackling introduced in junior league?

• Under 6: tag only (League Tag with 6 tags). There is no tackling.
• Under 7: tag until the team has completed a tackle readiness program. After that the team can switch to the tackle format. The laws recommend the program run for at least 10 weeks.
• Under 8 and older: the tackle format is played, with a 6-tackle count.

In tag, a tackle is made by pulling a tag off. The ball-carrier cannot fend off defenders, protect the tag with the arm or ball, or run directly at a defender, and a try needs two tags attached when the ball is grounded.

The NRL's TackleReady program teaches correct, safe tackling techniques in six sessions run by accredited deliverers, and is designed to reduce the effect of differences in size, maturity and skill.

Source: Junior Rugby League Laws 6-12 years (Official 2026), https://www.playrugbyleague.com/media/18199/2026-national-6-12-junior-league-laws.pdf and TackleReady, https://www.playrugbyleague.com/framework/tackleready/