Six things to know about SA Rugby’s new tackle rules and why standardising the tackle age makes sense

SOUTH African youth rugby is about to undergo one of its most significant shifts in years. SA Rugby has officially standardised the age at which tackling may begin — a move driven by safety concerns, developmental research, and a desire to bring the entire rugby ecosystem into alignment.

For thousands of schools, clubs and coaches, this change goes beyond a rule adjustment, because as it turns out, it is a new way of preparing young players for the game they love. Here are six key reasons why adapting the tackle age makes sense — and why this matters.

1. Tackling officially moves to Under-9

After years of inconsistency, SA Rugby has drawn a clear national line: tackling will now only begin at Under-9.

Children in the Under-5 to Under-8 groups will play TAG and Touch Rugby only, focusing on movement, ball skills and enjoyment.

Clint Readhead, SA Rugby’s General Manager of Medical, said the lack of a defined tackle age made South Africa “the only major rugby nation without one” — a gap that created confusion and unnecessary risk.

2. A structured “Confidence and Safety in Contact” programme will ease players into it

Instead of switching suddenly from non-contact to full tackling, Under-8s will follow a carefully designed introductory phase in the second half of their season.

The programme teaches controlled falling, rolling, wrestling basics and absorbing contact — the foundations of safe tackling.

It then forms part of a six-week pre-season block before the Under-9 campaign kicks off.

3. The change aligns South Africa with proven international practice

Many leading rugby nations, as well as unions such as the Blue Bulls locally, have already delayed tackling with strong results.

Prioritising fun, agility, confidence and core skills early on helps young players stay in the sport longer and reduces early burnout and injuries.

Readhead believes the proposal marks “a decisive step toward ensuring player safety and protecting development pathways.”

4. The decision followed a year-long research process

A task team established in 2024 examined medical data, international models, scientific studies and South Africa’s own participation trends.

They consulted schools, clubs, provincial unions and academies to determine the safest developmental point to introduce contact.

Former SASRA chairperson Noël Ingle says survey results showed clear support: 91% of primary school coaches wanted national guidelines, while 65% backed a minimum tackle age.

5. Every coach will now need updated certification

To support the change, all youth and primary school coaches will be required to complete World Rugby and BokSmart online certifications — including Tackle Ready, Breakdown Ready, and Tackle Height Change Education.

These resources will be added to SA Rugby’s website in 2026, ensuring coaches everywhere receive the same tools and information.

6. A uniform national rollout begins in 2026

From 2026, the standardised tackle age becomes compulsory across all schools, clubs, associate members, and non-affiliated groups.

For the first time, every young South African rugby player will move through the same developmental pathway, with the same expectations and safety standards.

Conclusion: A shift designed to protect both children and the sport

The standardised tackle age is definitely about reducing injuries, but it goes far beyond just that. It’s about giving young players the confidence, grounding and love for the game that keeps them playing for years.

By slowing the introduction of contact, SA Rugby hopes to build a safer, stronger, and more sustainable pipeline of future players.