What’s Changing in Community Rugby?

World Rugby has announced a major safety update for the grassroots game. Starting this July, any tackle that makes contact above the bottom of the breastbone will be illegal. The change applies to amateur and community rugby everywhere, not just in one country.

Why the Rule Is Being Updated

The goal is to reduce head injuries and concussions at the community level. By lowering the legal tackle height, officials hope to protect players who don’t have the same training or protective gear as professionals.

• Tackles must now aim at the waist or below.
• Any hit above the sternum will result in a penalty.
• The rule applies to all men’s, women’s, and youth grassroots matches.

How Players and Coaches Should Prepare

Clubs and teams need to adjust their training before July. Coaches should drill safer tackling techniques that focus on the hips and legs. Players will have to lower their body position when making contact to avoid breaking the new rule.

• Practice tackling from a lower stance.
• Use pad drills that target the waist area.
• Review match footage to spot high-tackle habits.

What This Means for Rugby’s Future

This change shows World Rugby’s commitment to making the game safer for everyone. While some players might need time to adjust, the long-term aim is to keep rugby exciting but free from dangerous head contact. The new rule officially kicks in from July, so check with your local union for exact start dates.