Millers Rugby

Welcome! Putting your kid into U14 Boys rugby is one of the best things you can do for them. At this age, rugby in Ontario is all about developing skills, fitness, strategy, and teamwork - with full-ish contact that prepares them for the junior game while keeping things safe and exciting.
Here's what you can realistically expect:

1. The Game Itself - Closer to the Real Deal!

U14 Boys in Ontario play 13-a-side (or sometimes piloting 10-a-side) on a larger field (half or three-quarter size).

Full contact: proper tackling, contested rucks and mauls.
Scrums: contested push allowed (but safely managed).
Lineouts: contested, lifting introduced.
Kicking in open play is common now.

Games are longer: two 25-30 minute halves, with subs to keep everyone involved.
Separate boys teams - more structured positions (forwards vs backs).

2. Season & Schedule (Typical in Ontario)

Millers Rugby intention is to bring youth rugby to rural Ontario. We are actively working to establish teams in a number of communities.

If you have a communityinterested in starting a team, please contact us.

For the upcoming season, we are looking to grow our existing team out of Middlesex Centre (Komoka, Mt. Brydges, Strathroy, West London etc.)

Spring/summer training and leagues/festivals happen throughout the summer (May-August).

Practices: usually 2 nights a week (90-120 minutes).
Games: Sunday mornings, usually 3-4 teams travel to one field to play a mini tournment playing 2-3 games each.
Total time commitment: a bit more than younger ages, but still family-friendly.

3. Cost

Mouthguard is mandatory
Rugby or Soccer cleats (no toe studs).
Some kids wear scrum caps for extra head protection or to keep their hair out of their eyes.
No other big expenses at this age.

4. What Your Kid Will Actually Do

Run, pass, tackle hard, contest breakdowns, pack into scrums and lineouts.
Learn positional roles, basic tactics, fitness work.
Lots of contact drills (padded at first) to build confidence.
Coaches are certified volunteers trained by Rugby Ontario with big focus on technique and safety.

5. Safety

Rugby Canada and Rugby Ontario have strict progressions - contact builds on U12 foundations.

Coaches trained in concussion protocols, safe scrummaging, and tackle technique.

Refs monitor dangerous play closely; injuries are managed well with good habits taught early.
It's physical, but designed to be safer than it looks with proper coaching.

6. Parent Life

You'll probably be asked to help with driving to away games, snacks, or field setup.
You'll stand on the sideline with other parents drinking coffee, cheering massive hits and big runs (for all the kids!).
Kids come home muddy, bruised, exhausted, super proud, and already planning next game.
By the end of the first month, your kid will be begging to go to rugby.

This is the age where boys often get totally hooked - the physicality, strategy, and camaraderie make it addictive. It builds tough, respectful young men. You've got this! 🏉