Parent's Corner.

Straight answers to the questions parents ask us first. If yours isn't here, message Michelle.

Safety
First practice
All questions
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You might picture big hits. Here's what practice really looks like.

You might pictureAt Sharks practice

Kids crashing into each otherT1 is non-contact rugby. A touch replaces the tackle, at every age.

Tackles to the headThere's no tackling in our programs at all. Players who want to tackle later, we connect with clubs that offer it.

Your kid against much bigger kidsPlayers are grouped by age and ability where possible: U6, U8–U10, U12–U14, and U16–U18. (Note: final groups to be determined once we complete signups)

Shrugging off a knock to the headEvery family reads World Rugby's concussion guidance when they register, and coaches follow it.

A touch replaces the tackle

T1 is the official non-contact version of rugby in the United States, adopted by USA Rugby and USA Youth & High School Rugby in 2026. Instead of tackling, a defender touches the ball carrier.

Grouped by age and ability

Lil Sharks (U6, ages 4–6) learn through games and movement. T1 players train in U8–U10, U12–U14, and U16–U18 groups, so kids play with others their size and level where possible.

Boys and girls play together

T1 is built for mixed teams. New players and experienced ones play side by side, and every player gets the ball.

Respect is part of the game

Respect for teammates, opponents, and referees is how we coach, and it shows up in our club motto: Fueled by courage, Grounded by respect, Strengthened by community.

Head knocks are taken seriously

We follow World Rugby and USA Rugby's concussion guidance.

Your first practice is the easy part.

Get the info. Tell us about your kids and we'll reach out with dates, costs, and the free intro practice.
Come try it free. Meet the coaches, learn a few skills, and see how much fun T1 rugby is.
Register online. Sign up for the 6-week program in about five minutes. The first one starts Tuesday, January 12, 2027.
Show up Tuesdays. Practice is in Englewood. Field TBD

What to bring

Water bottle
Sneakers or cleats
Sunscreen and a hat
A snack for after

Every question parents ask us, answered.

What is T1 rugby?

The official non-contact version of rugby in the United States. Teams of seven play on a smaller field, a touch replaces the tackle, and boys and girls play together. It keeps the fun parts of rugby: running, passing, kicking, and scoring tries.

How much does it cost?

Registration is free ($0). There is nothing to pay when you sign up.

When and where are practices?

The first 6-week program runs on Tuesdays, January 12 to February 16, 2027, in Englewood. Practices run 6:00 to 7:00 PM. We are currently identifying available fields in the Englewood area.

See the schedule

Can my kid try it first?

Yes. The first session is free to try. Just bring sneakers or cleats and water.

Can girls play?

Yes. T1 is played on mixed teams of boys and girls.

My kid has never played any sport. Is that OK?

Yes. No rugby experience is needed. Coaches teach the game from the very first pass.

Is there any tackling?

No. All of our regular programs are non-contact. If your kid wants to play tackle rugby later, we'll help connect them with other clubs.

See how we keep kids safe

What ages can play?

Ages 4 to 18, in seven coed divisions: Lil Sharks U6, then T1 Rugby U8, U10, U12, U14, U16, and U18. Which division fits your player is set by their birthdate — the breakdown is in the squad finder on the home page.

Why short programs instead of a season?

Short programs through the year make rugby easier to fit around other sports and let new players join anytime.

What are tournaments like?

We plan to take U12 and U14 Select teams to the Tropical 7s in Tampa over Easter weekend 2027, a tournament with more than 200 teams. We also plan local T1 games and festivals.

Tropical 7s interest form

Can I help out?

Yes, please. We need coaches, volunteers, and families who spread the word. Tell us on the registration form or the info form and we'll find you a job.

Why should kids play rugby?

It builds fitness (running, passing, catching, and thinking all at once), and it teaches teamwork, discipline, resilience, and respect. Kids of every shape, size, and ability have a job on the field, and the friendships run deep.

Does my kid need special gear?

No. Comfortable sports clothes, sneakers or cleats, water, and sunscreen. Cleats help on grass but aren't required. A shirt may be included; we are working on sponsors.

Do parents stay during practice?

Parents are encouraged to stay and watch from the sidelines.

Who coaches?

Wicus Postma, who grew up playing in South Africa and grew a touch rugby program in California to 250 kids with Michelle Postma.

Meet the coaches

The fine print, in one place.

Every family signs the club waiver and photo release when they register.