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Tag makes an impact at Wynberg Boys Junior School

Last Saturday saw the beginning of what promises to be an exciting season of Tag Rugby for grade 1 boys, when the season kicked off with matches played between four WBJS teams. Nine-a-side matches were played in a hearty spirit which saw the boys revel under slightly muddy conditions. Coaches made up predominantly of fathers, coached and refereed on-field, organising the boys on defence and attack, while encouraging them to support each other. While the rules of Tag Rugby were adhered to, the boys were allowed to make minor errors (e.g., the odd forward pass) to ensure a flowing game that all the boys could enjoy.

Tag rugby is a non-contact sport introduced to junior level schools to ensure safety while promoting the use of appropriate attacking and defensive lines. Boys wear waist high Velcro belts with two detachable tags on either side. To make a tackle one of the tags has to be ripped by a defensive player. Attacking teams are allowed three tags while taking the ball up. Thereafter possession is handed to the defensive side. Tacklers are required to yell “TAG” while coaches then encourage the ball carrier to pass to a team mate. No contact is allowed and boys may not kick, hurl themselves in the tackle or dive over the try line to score, thereby minimising the likelihood of injury and promoting opportunities for the little guys to get their hands on the ball.

While the matches were played in the spirit of fun, the boys were highly competitive with plenty of tries being scored and some sublime tags being made. Clearly mistakes were evident but this will improve as the boys learn to pass accurately, organise their attacking and defensive lines, improve communication and come to terms with the non-contact nature of the sport. Spare a thought for Ryan Thompson who dislocated a thumb, we wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him back playing Tag shortly. With the exception of this one injury, tag has generally proved to be safer than full contact mini rugby. Boys not participating are encouraged to join up and experience the fun of it all.