Rugby Core Values

Rugby is a game for all shapes and sizes. As a result, a complete cross section of the community is involved in rugby union in England, with over 2 million players, 1,900 rugby clubs, 3,100 schools, 37,000 referees, 57,000 coaches, and some 40,000 volunteers involved.

All share a common purpose, and core values, which are captured here by the Rugby Football Union, the governing body of the sport in England, based on an extensive dialogue with the whole game.

• Teamwork
• Respect
• Enjoyment
• Discipline
• Sportsmanship

Teamwork

Teamwork is essential to our sport

We play selflessly: working for the team, not for ourselves alone, both on and off the field

We speak out if our team or sport is threatened by inappropriate words or actions

We take pride in our team, rely on one another and understand that each player has a part to play

We welcome all new team members and include all because working as a team enriches our lives

Respect

Respect forms the basis of our sport

We hold in high esteem our sport, its values and traditions and earn the respect of others by the way we behave

We respect our match officials and accept their decisions

We respect opposition players and supporters

We value our coaches and those who run our clubs and treat clubhouses with consideration

Enjoyment

Enjoyment is the reason we play and support rugby union

We encourage players to enjoy training and playing

We use our sport to adopt a healthy lifestyle and build life skills

We safeguard our young players and help them have fun

We enjoy being part of a team and part of the rugby family because it enhances confidence and self esteem

Discipline

Strong discipline underpins our sport

We ensure that our sport is one of controlled physical endeavour and that we are honest and fair

We obey the ” Laws of the Game” which ensure an inclusive and exciting global game

We support our disciplinary system, which protects our sport and upholds its values

We observe the sport’s Laws and regulations and report serious breaches

Sportsmanship

Sportsmanship is the foundation rugby union is built upon

We uphold the rugby tradition of camaraderie with team mates and opposition

We observe fair play both on and off the pitch and are generous in victory and dignified in defeat

We play to win but not at all costs and recognise both endeavour and achievement

We ensure that the wellbeing and development of individual players is central to all rugby activity