SA Rugby has announced a major change to the country’s youth rugby pathway, officially standardising the age at which tackling is permitted. From 2026, children from Under-5 to Under-8 (U5–U8) will play non-contact rugby only, with tackling introduced from Under-9 (U9).
The decision follows medical reviews, international comparisons and wide consultation with junior coaches. With more than 400 000 primary-school players involved nationwide, SA Rugby says the new system aims to improve player safety and create consistent development across all provinces.
To prepare players for tackling, a structured “Confidence and Safety in Contact” programme will be introduced in the second half of the U8 season. This includes teaching safe falling, rolling, wrestling and controlled-contact skills, followed by a compulsory six-week readiness block before U9 rugby begins.
The updated policy will apply to all schools, clubs and youth rugby organisations, including unaffiliated groups. SA Rugby noted that South Africa had previously been the only major rugby nation without a defined minimum tackle age, which created inconsistencies and increased safety concerns.
The governing body says the new unified approach is designed to strengthen safety and development in junior rugby ahead of the 2026 season.