How high may players tackle, and what may the ball carrier not do?

SA Rugby lowered the legal tackle height for school and club rugby from 2024, and the Primary School Law Variations apply it from U10 to U13:

Tackler

• The tackle must be made below the base of the sternum and above the knees. Sanction: penalty kick.
• A tackle below the knees is allowed only with a clear wrap of the arms around the legs.
• No sling tackles (grabbing the carrier's clothing and swinging them to the ground). Sanction: penalty kick.

Ball carrier

• May brace for contact, but may not run into contact with the body fully bent or horizontal, with the head lower than the hips, or lead head-first into an opponent in open play. Sanction: free kick.
• May not pretend to be tackled in the air. Sanction: penalty kick.

Dangerous contact with the head or neck can still be carded.