JUNIOR MATCH RULES - WRFL
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JUNIOR MATCH RULES
Issue Date: 27 March 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION PAGE 1
GAME TIMES
2018 GAME TIMES PAGE 1
2019 GAME TIMES PAGE 1
UNDER 9 & 10 UMPIRES PAGE 2
JUNIOR RULES MATRIX PAGE 3
2019 RULES UPDATE BY AGE GROUP
UNDER 8 COMPETITION PAGE 5
UNDER 9 & 10 MIXED COMPETITIONS PAGE 8
UNDER 12 MIXED COMPETITION PAGE 11
UNDER 14 MIXED COMPETITION PAGE 12
UNDER 16 BOYS COMPETITION PAGE 12
UNDER 10 GIRLS COMPETITION PAGE 13
UNDER 12 GIRLS COMPETITION PAGE 16
UNDER 15 GIRLS COMPETITION PAGE 18
UNDER 18 GIRLS COMPETITION PAGE 18
EVENING UP OF PLAYERS RULE PAGE 19
ORDER OFF RULE PAGE 20
MERCY RULE PAGE 21
AFL RULE CHANGES PAGE 22
JUNIOR GIRLS OVER AGE PERMITS PAGE 24
Issue Date: 27 March 2019
INTRODUCTION The following document provides Clubs with vital information in regards to changes to game start times and match rules which take effect for the 2019 Season. GAME TIMES In order to assist with umpiring availability and the extra capacity for games on a Sunday the League in consultation with Clubs and our WRFL umpires believed that re-scheduling matches to accommodate five (5) time slots would assist with these 2 major issues being faced. 2018 GAME TIMES 8:50am Under 8, Under 9 and Under 10 10:20am Under 11, Under 12 and Under 12 Girls 12:05pm Under 13, Under 14 and Under 15 Girls 2:05pm Under 15, Under 17 and Under 18 Girls * These are general starting times for each specific age group 2019 GAME TIMES 8:40am Under 8 and Under 9 9:50am Under 12 and Under 12 Girls 11:25am Under 10 and Under 10 Girls 12:50pm Under 14 and Under 15 Girls 2:40pm Under 16 and Under 18 Girls * These are general starting times for each specific age group Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 1 of 25
Many of our junior umpires who play football are playing Under 14s football, which under the
2018 scheduling stops them from umpiring Under 12s. If the Under 10 and Under 12
matches are swapped in their order of scheduling this then allows those who play Under 14s
or Under 15 Girls to umpire the Under 12s with a gam break. This would also allow a senior
umpire to umpire the Under 9 and Under 10 matches.
UNDER 9 & 10 UMPIRES
Season 2017 and 2018 saw Under 9 and Under 10 matches having very limited official
umpires appointed given that they have modified rules. In Season 2019 instead of the WRFL
providing umpires very randomly and very limited every team will be allocated a senior
umpire at least once during the first seven (7) rounds of the season to officiate (one umpire
only) so that teams understand the “spirit” of the modified rules, therefore creating the
desired environment in which modified football should be played.
Clubs will need to elect two (2) club umpires to undertake an umpire’s accreditation (1.5 hour
coaching session) prior to the season and then be on the ground the day in which the
allocated senior umpire officiates.
Total Match
Start Time Competition Finish (no later)
Time
Under 8 and Under 9 60 mins 9:40am
8:40am
9:50am Under 12 & Under 12 Girls 76 mins 11:09am
11:25am Under 10 & Under 10 Girls 72 mins 12:37pm
12:50pm Under 14 & Under 15 Girls 90 mins 2:30pm
2:40pm Under 16 & Under 18 Girls 98 mins 4:15pm
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 2 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019
JUNIOR RULES MATRIX
JUNIOR / YOUTH JUNIOR GIRLS
Under Under Under Under Under Under Under Under Under Under
8 (Mixed) 9 (Mixed) 10 (Mixed) 12 (Mixed) 14 (Mixed) 16 (Boys) 10 (Girls) 12 (Girls) 15 (Girls) 18 (Girls)
ADMINISTRATION
PHASE INTRODUCTORY DEVELOPMENT DEVELOPMENT COMPETITION COMPETITION COMPETITION INTRODUCTORY DEVELOPMENT COMPETITION COMPETITION
Full size to half size Full size to half size
Ground size 80m x 60m at discretion of at discretion of Standard Standard Standard 80m x 60m Standard Standard Standard
home club home club
Game Starting
8:40am 8:40am 11:25am 9:50am 12:50pm 2:40pm 11:25am 9:50am 12:50pm 2:40pm
Time
Zones ✓ ✓
# Players on
6 - 12 a side* 18* 18* 18 18 18 6 - 12 a side 18 18 18
ground
# Interchange
Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited Seven (7) Seven (7) Seven (7) Unlimited Unlimited Seven (7) Seven (7)
players
Ball type Synthetic Synthetic Synthetic Leather Leather Match / KB Synthetic Synthetic Leather Leather
Ball size 2 2 2 3 4 Full Size 2 3 4 4
Quarter duration
12 12 15 15 18 20 10 12 15 17
(mins)
Break length
1/4 - 1/2 - 3/4 3-6-3 3-6-3 3-7-3 3-8-5 3 - 10 - 5 3 - 10 - 5 3-7-3 3-8-5 3 - 10 - 5 3 - 10 - 5
time
UMPIRES
# field umpires Club (2) Club (2) / League (1) Club (2) / League (1) League Umpires League Umpires League Umpires Club (2) League Umpires League Umpires League Umpires
Boundary
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
umpires
LAWS
Tackling Modified Modified ✓ ✓ ✓ No Tackling Modified ✓ ✓
Bumping ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Stealing the ball ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Barging ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Smothering ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 3 of 25
Fending off ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Shepherding ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Bouncing the ball 1 max 1 max 1 max Unlimited Unlimited Unlimited 1 Max 1 max Unlimited Unlimited
Kicking off the
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
ground
Players of equal Players of equal Players of equal Players of equal Players of equal
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Ball ups height height height height height
Throw-ins ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Distance over Any distance, Any distance, Any distance, Any distance, Any distance,
which marks are reasonable reasonable reasonable 10m 15m 15m reasonable reasonable 15m 15m
paid attempt attempt attempt attempt attempt
Distance penalty 15m 15m 15m 15m 15m 50m 15m 15m 15m 50m
Zones ✓ ✓
Deliberate out of
bounds
Deliberately
rushed behind
COMPETITION
DETAILS
Premierships ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
ladders/Finals
Mercy Rule N/A N/A N/A ✓ N/A N/A N/A ✓ N/A N/A
Scores kept ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
If Both Teams
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Evening Up Rule Agree
Record best
players/goal ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
kickers
League
representative ✓ ✓ ✓
team selected
Coach allowed
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
on-field
Runner ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Water Person ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
NOTES *Lesser # if agreed *Evening Up Rule Applied
UPDATES / CHANGES FOR SEASON 2019 – HIGHLIGHTED IN BLUE
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 4 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019RULES UPDATE BY AGE GROUP
UNDER 8 COMPETITION
UPDATES
Changes to the Under 8 competition match rules are the following;
• Starting time of match will generally be 8:40am
• Length of quarters increased from 10 minutes to 12 minutes
• Breaks lengths will be 3 minutes ¼ time, 6 minutes ½ time and 3 minutes ¾ time
CURRENT MATCH RULES
The following modified rules shall apply in all Under 8 games. These have not been altered in any way from
season 2018. In all other respects, games shall be conducted in accordance with total WRFL by-laws.
Modifications to Game Conditions:
a) Scores shall not be recorded
b) No scoreboard shall operate
c) No premiership points shall be awarded
d) Ladders shall not be compiled/published
e) No final series to be played
f) No WRFL awards shall be made to individual players
The umpire should at all times:
• Endeavour to apply the rules of the games whilst preferring to award kicks to players in preference
to calling for “ball-ups”
• Understand that the spirit of AFL Junior match rules for this age group is to enable all players to
gather possession and that ‘the player in possession of the ball should be given opportunity to kick
or handball’. For this reason, restrictions are placed upon body contact (refer to contact/tackling)
• Attempt to involve all players as the opportunities arise, particularly when indicating which players
are to receive a ‘free kick’ upon the ball being kicked out of bounds and ensuring the effective
rotation of players through the three zones of play
• Enforce the ‘full possession rule’ at all ball ups (see below)
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 5 of 25Playing Time:
Game duration shall be four (4) quarters of 12 minutes duration (no time on) with breaks as follows:
¼ Time: 3 minutes
½ Time: 6 minutes
¾ Time: 3 minutes
Teams:
Teams shall comprise twelve per side, split into 4 forwards, 4 centres, 4 backs, plus an unlimited amount of
interchange players. Interchange may take place at any time, but all players must play at least three
quarters of the match.
Where one team is short on players, the opposition will loan players to ensure equality of team numbers on
the field.
Players are to be rotated every quarter to provide opportunities in several positions, i.e. players to change
from one zone to another and interchange onto the field.
Playing Ground and Officials:
The size of the playing field should be no bigger than 80m x 60m and divided into three equal zones (thirds)
identified by markers or lines on the ground.
A field umpire is needed, there are no boundary throw-ins (no boundary umpires) but two goal umpires are
required.
Zones:
Backs are restricted to the back zones. Centres are restricted to the centre zone. Forwards are restricted to
the forward zone. Rotate players to provide opportunities in several positions (as above).
Transition of Ball:
When the ball is in transition from the Back Zone to the Forward Zone, it must be touched by a player in the
Mid-Zone. Failure for this to occur will see a free kick awarded to the opposition team at the point at which
the ball entered the end zone.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 6 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019Scoring:
Only players who are positioned as Forward Zone players may score.
Possession Rule:
The ball is possessed by the act of controlling it by catching it, grabbing it, or laying two hands on it when it
is on the ground. Once the ball is possessed, all other players must back off to the side of the player in
possession, so that the player may kick or handball uncontested (there is to be no blocking or standing in
the pathway of the player in possession). Decide doubtful cases with ball-ups.
Start of Play (quarter or post goal):
When all players are inside their own zones, a ball-up is conducted between two centre players of similar
height as nominated by the umpire. The umpire should nominate different pairs of players for subsequent
ball-ups after goals are scored.
Field Ball Ups:
Where a scrimmage develops, unless awarding of a free kick is possible under the spirit of the game the
umpire shall stop play and nominate two opponents of approximately equal size to contest the ball-up. The
nominated players need not be the tallest nor the nearest.
A player contesting a ball-up (either in the centre or around the ground) may not grab the ball and play on.
The player must knock, palm or punch the ball to a teammate or open ground, and may not play the ball
against until it has either been touched by another player or hits the ground.
Contact and Tackling:
There is to be absolutely no contact or spoiling whatsoever except accidental and light ‘shoulder to
shoulder’ contact while running to an at the ball. Players cannot:
• Hold an opponent with their hands
• Steal the ball or knock it out of an opponent’s hands
• Push, bump or barge another player (incidental contact only is permitted)
• Smother an opponent’s kick
• Shepherd
Mark:
A mark is awarded, no matter how far the ball has travelled, to any player who catches, or makes a
reasonable attempt to catch, the ball directly from the kick of another player.
Bouncing the Ball:
A player may bounce the ball only once, and then must dispose of it. In the case of any infringement, the
umpire shall effect a ball-up at the spot where the second bounce occurs.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 7 of 25Kicking off the Ground:
Deliberately kicking the ball off the ground in general play in not permitted and will result in a free kick being
awarded against the offending player.
Out of Bounds:
When out of bounds from a kick, a free kick shall be awarded to nearest opponent. If in doubt to which
team kicked it out, a ball up will take place five (5) metres in from boundary.
Coaches:
The Coach is allowed on the ground during play for the sole purpose of providing immediate feedback to
players; they must not pressure, instruct or make comment to or about officiating umpires decisions that
they make. The Coach must not pressure, instruct or make comment to the opposition team.
UNDER 9 and 10 (MIXED) COMPETITIONS
UPDATES
Changes to the Under 9 competition match rules are the following;
• Starting time of match will generally be 8:40am
• Length of quarters decreased from 15 minutes to 12 minutes
• Breaks lengths will be 3 minutes ¼ time, 6 minutes ½ time and 3 minutes ¾ time
Changes to the Under 10 competition match rules are the following;
• Starting time of match will generally be 11:25am
CURRENT MATCH RULES
Please be reminded of the following important modified rules that apply in all Under 9 and 10 games. These
have not been altered from last season.
Modifications to Game Conditions:
a) Scores shall not be recorded
b) No scoreboard shall operate
c) No premiership points shall be awarded
d) Ladders shall not be compiled/published
e) No final series to be played
f) No WRFL awards shall be made to individual players
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 8 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019Playing Ground: At the discretion of the home club, games may be played on grounds marked to range in size from full-size down to a minimum of half the size of a full ground. Home clubs must notify opposition clubs no later than the Thursday before the game should they determine to play on a reduced sized ground. Clubs are encouraged to use reduced size grounds wherever possible for Under 9 and Under 10 games. Teams: Teams shall comprise of 18 players per side, unless the coaches of both teams agree to a lesser number. Players should be rotated every quarter, eg. Centres, backs, forwards. Coaches are encouraged to share excess players with the opposition team if they are short. All players should be allocated a minimum on- field game time equivalent to half of the game. Start of Play (each quarter): In each quarter, play shall be started by a ball up between rucks. Players must not grab the ball at the ball up. It must be knocked, palmed or punched. This applies to centre throw ups only. Start of Play (following goals): Each time a goal is scored by either team, play will be restarted with a player of the team that did not score the goal given possession in the centre circle. The player awarded such possession will be selected at the discretion of the umpire. All players (both teams) must remain in their positions and on-ballers/wingers must stay behind the centre circle away from the kicker. Penalty for non-compliance is a 50m penalty. Out of Bounds: When out of bounds from a kick, a free kick shall be awarded to nearest opponent. If in doubt to which team kicked it out, a ball up will take place five (5) metre in from the boundary. Tackling: A player in possession of the ball may be tackled by an opponent wrapping both arms around the area below the top of the shoulders and on/above the knees. The tackle may be from either side or from behind, providing the tackle from behind does not thrust forward the player with the ball (i.e. push the player in the back). If the player in possession of the ball is taken to the ground in the act of tackling, they will receive a free kick. If the umpire feels the player drops to the ground deliberately in order to receive a free kick, they will be penalised for holding the ball. Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 9 of 25
A player in possession of the ball, when held by an opponent applying the wrap-around tackle, should be
given a reasonable chance to dispose of the ball by kick or by handball, or by attempting to kick or
handball, otherwise a free kick shall be awarded to the tackler for holding the ball.
The field umpire shall conduct a ball-up when the player with the ball has the ball held to the body of an
opponent, unless the player has had a reasonable time to dispose of the ball prior to being tackled, in which
case a free kick shall be awarded to the tackler for holding the ball.
The field umpire shall allow play to continue if the ball is accidently knocked out of a player’s hands by an
opponent.
There is strictly no bumping, slinging or deliberately bringing the opposition player in possession of the ball
to the ground.
Players cannot:
a) Knock the ball out of an opponent’s hands;
b) Push the player in the side;
c) Steal the ball from another player; or
d) Smother an opponent’s kick
A free kick shall be awarded to any infringed player.
Bouncing the Ball:
A player may bounce the ball only once, and then dispose of it. In the case of any infringement, the umpire
shall effect a ball-up at the spot where the second bounce occurs.
Staying in Position:
Insofar as practical, players must stay in or near their allocated positions. Umpires will have discretion to
stop play and demand players return to their positions when they deem play to be overly congested.
Order off Rule:
The order-off rule applying in other WRFL grades will apply in Under 9 and Under 10 games.
Player Reports & Tribunals:
If a player is reported in an Under 9 or Under 10 game (U10 girls included), he/she will not appear before
the Independent Tribunal or the Independent Hearing Committee. Instead, the following will apply:
a) League will ask both Clubs and umpires for their statements/recollection of events which must be
forwarded onto the League by Tuesday 12pm noon after the game;
b) All information will be handed to the Independent Tribunal who will deal with the matter as it deems
fit and may impose any penalties.
Coach on the Ground:
The coach is allowed on the ground during play for the sole purpose of providing immediate feedback to
players. He or she must not pressure, instruct or make comment to or about officiating umpires or decisions
that they make. The coach must not pressure, instruct or make comment to players or officials of the
opposition team.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 10 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019When the coach elects to remain on the ground during play, then no runner for that team will be permitted
on the ground at the same time as the coach.
The order-off rule (by-law 3.2.1) applies to all players and officials in all junior games.
UNDER 12 (MIXED) COMPETITION
UPDATES
Changes to the Under 12 mixed competition match rules are the following;
• Starting time of match will generally be 9:50am
• Length of quarters decreased from 17 minutes to 15 minutes
• Breaks lengths will be 3 minutes ¼ time, 8 minutes ½ time and 5 minutes ¾ time
• Last touch out of bounds rule will be enforced, removing the requirement of boundary umpires
CURRENT MATCH RULES
The following modified rules shall apply in all Under 12 mixed games. In all other respects, games shall be
conducted in accordance with total WRFL by-laws including new AFL rules.
Kicking off the Ground:
Deliberately kicking the ball off the ground in general play in not permitted and will result in a free kick being
awarded against the offending player.
Mercy Rule:
The Mercy Rule will apply to the Under 12 mixed age group and will be invoked by the umpires if the score
differential at half time or three quarter time of a match is sixty (60) points or greater. Once invoked the rule
will remain in place for the remainder of the match.
Once invoked the following change to match conditions will be implemented by the umpires:
• After any score by the winning team, play is restarted with the losing team given possession of the
ball in the centre circle.
• All players (both teams) must remain in their positions and on-ballers/wingers must stay behind the
centre circle away from the kicker. Penalty for non-compliance is a 50m penalty.
There is no discretion for club officials to agree to non-implementation of the Mercy Rule. The Mercy Rule
does not apply in finals matches.
This rule is not designed to achieve an even sharing of the ball between all players irrespective of their
ability. The purpose of the rule is, however, to create a more fair and even contest once one team has a
significant lead in a match. The WRFL expects all team officials, players and supporters to adhere to the
spirit of this rule and reserve the right to monitor all matches to ensure clubs are meeting this responsibility.
Last Touch out of Bounds:
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 11 of 25When out of bounds from a kick (between the 50 metre arcs only), a free kick shall be awarded to nearest
opponent. If in doubt to which team kicked it out, a ball up will take place five (5) metre in from the
boundary. Within both teams 50m arcs when out of bounds from a kick will result in a ball up five (5) metres
in from the boundary.
Evening Up of Players:
Please refer to the Evening-Up Rule detailed later in this document.
UNDER 14 (MIXED) COMPETITION
UPDATES
Changes to the Under 14 (mixed) competition match rules are the following;
• Starting time of match will generally be 12:50pm
• Length of quarters decreased from 20 minutes to 18 minutes
• Breaks lengths will be 3 minutes ¼ time, 10 minutes ½ time and 5 minutes ¾ time
CURRENT MATCH RULES
No alternations/changes to on-field match rules for the Under 14 mixed competition from season 2018
other than the new AFL rules (detailed at the end of the document).
UNDER 16 (BOYS) COMPETITION
UPDATES
Changes to the Under 16 competition match rules are the following;
• Starting time of match will generally be 2:40pm
• Length of quarters decreased from 22 minutes to 20 minutes
• Breaks lengths will be 3 minutes ¼ time, 10 minutes ½ time and 5 minutes ¾ time
CURRENT MATCH RULES
No alternations/changes to on-field match rules for the Under 16 boys competition from season 2018 other
than the new AFL rules (detailed at the end of the document).
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 12 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019UNDER 10 (GIRLS) COMPETITION
CURRENT MATCH RULES
The following modified rules shall apply in all Under 10 girls games. The Under 10 girls competition is a
brand new competition for the WRFL in season 2019 and will be played in accordance with the Australian
Football Match Policy. In all other respects, games shall be conducted in accordance with total WRFL by-
laws.
Modifications to Game Conditions:
g) Scores shall not be recorded
h) No scoreboard shall operate
i) No premiership points shall be awarded
j) Ladders shall not be compiled/published
k) No final series to be played
l) No WRFL awards shall be made to individual players
The umpire should at all times:
• Endeavour to apply the rules of the games whilst preferring to award kicks to players in preference
to calling for “ball-ups”
• Understand that the spirit of AFL Junior match rules for this age group is to enable all players to
gather possession and that ‘the player in possession of the ball should be given opportunity to kick
or handball’. For this reason, restrictions are placed upon body contact (refer to contact/tackling)
• Attempt to involve all players as the opportunities arise, particularly when indicating which players
are to receive a ‘free kick’ upon the ball being kicked out of bounds and ensuring the effective
rotation of players through the three zones of play
• Enforce the ‘full possession rule’ at all ball ups (see below)
Playing Time:
Game duration shall be four (4) quarters of 10 minutes duration (no time on) with breaks as follows:
¼ Time: 3 minutes
½ Time: 7 minutes
¾ Time: 3 minutes
Teams:
Teams shall comprise twelve per side, split into 4 forwards, 4 centres, 4 backs, plus an unlimited amount of
interchange players. Interchange may take place at any time, but all players must play at least three
quarters of the match.
Where one team is short on players, the opposition will loan players to ensure equality of team numbers on
the field.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 13 of 25Players are to be rotated every quarter to provide opportunities in several positions, i.e. players to change
from one zone to another and interchange onto the field.
Playing Ground and Officials:
The size of the playing field should be no bigger than 80m x 60m and divided into three equal zones (thirds)
identified by markers or lines on the ground.
A
field umpire is needed, there are no boundary throw-ins
(no boundary umpires) but two goal umpires are required.
Zones:
Backs are restricted to the back zones. Centres are restricted to the centre zone. Forwards are restricted to
the forward zone. Rotate players to provide opportunities in several positions (as above).
Transition of Ball:
When the ball is in transition from the Back Zone to the Forward Zone, it must be touched by a player in the
Mid-Zone. Failure for this to occur will see a free kick awarded to the opposition team at the point at which
the ball entered the end zone.
Scoring:
Only players who are positioned as Forward Zone players may score.
Possession Rule:
The ball is possessed by the act of controlling it by catching it, grabbing it, or laying two hands on it when it
is on the ground. Once the ball is possessed, all other players must back off to the side of the player in
possession, so that the player may kick or handball uncontested (there is to be no blocking or standing in
the pathway of the player in possession). Decide doubtful cases with ball-ups.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 14 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019Start of Play (quarter or post goal):
When all players are inside their own zones, a ball-up is conducted between two centre players of similar
height as nominated by the umpire. The umpire should nominate different pairs of players for subsequent
ball-ups after goals are scored.
Field Ball Ups:
Where a scrimmage develops, unless awarding of a free kick is possible under the spirit of the game the
umpire shall stop play and nominate two opponents of approximately equal size to contest the ball-up. The
nominated players need not be the tallest nor the nearest.
A player contesting a ball-up (either in the centre or around the ground) may not grab the ball and play on.
The player must knock, palm or punch the ball to a teammate or open ground, and may not play the ball
against until it has either been touched by another player or hits the ground.
Contact and Tackling:
There is to be absolutely no contact or spoiling whatsoever except accidental and light ‘shoulder to
shoulder’ contact while running to an at the ball. Players cannot:
• Hold an opponent with their hands
• Steal the ball or knock it out of an opponent’s hands
• Push, bump or barge another player (incidental contact only is permitted)
• Smother an opponent’s kick
• Shepherd
Order off Rule:
The order-off rule applying in other WRFL grades will apply in Under 10 girls matches.
Mark:
A mark is awarded, no matter how far the ball has travelled, to any player who catches, or makes a
reasonable attempt to catch, the ball directly from the kick of another player.
Bouncing the Ball:
A player may bounce the ball only once, and then must dispose of it. In the case of any infringement, the
umpire shall effect a ball-up at the spot where the second bounce occurs.
Kicking off the Ground:
Deliberately kicking the ball off the ground in general play in not permitted and will result in a free kick being
awarded against the offending player.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 15 of 25Out of Bounds:
When out of bounds from a kick, a free kick shall be awarded to nearest opponent. If in doubt to which
team kicked it out, a ball up will take place five (5) metres in from boundary.
Coaches:
The Coach is allowed on the ground during play for the sole purpose of providing immediate feedback to
players; they must not pressure, instruct or make comment to or about officiating umpires decisions that
they make. The Coach must not pressure, instruct or make comment to the opposition team.
UNDER 12 (GIRLS) COMPETITION
UPDATES
Changes to the Under 12 girls competition match rules are the following;
• Starting time of match will generally be 9:50am
• Standard playing ground size will be used
• 18 players permitted on the ground per side (evening up rule to apply if teams have less than 18
players)
• Breaks lengths will be 3 minutes ¼ time, 8 minutes ½ time and 5 minutes ¾ time
• Last touch out of bounds rule modified (in line with Under 12 boys).
• Mercy rule will now be invoked (in line with Under 12 boys)
CURRENT MATCH RULES
Please be reminded of the following important modified rules that apply in all Under 12 girls games.
Out of Bounds:
When out of bounds from a kick (between both 50 metre arcs), a free kick shall be awarded to nearest
opponent. If in doubt to which team kicked it out, a ball up will take place five (5) metre in from the
boundary. Within both teams 50m arcs when out of bounds from a kick will result in a ball up five (5) metres
in from the boundary.
Tackling:
A player in possession of the ball may be tackled by an opponent wrapping both arms around the area
below the top of the shoulders and on/above the knees. The tackle may be from either side or from behind,
providing the tackle from behind does not thrust forward the player with the ball (i.e. push the player in the
back).
If the player in possession of the ball is taken to the ground in the act of tackling, they will receive a free
kick. If the umpire feels the player drops to the ground deliberately in order to receive a free kick, they will
be penalised for holding the ball.
A player in possession of the ball, when held by an opponent applying the wrap-around tackle, should be
given a reasonable chance to dispose of the ball by kick or by handball, or by attempting to kick or
handball, otherwise a free kick shall be awarded to the tackler for holding the ball.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 16 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019The field umpire shall conduct a ball-up when the player with the ball has the ball held to the body of an
opponent, unless the player has had a reasonable time to dispose of the ball prior to being tackled, in which
case a free kick shall be awarded to the tackler for holding the ball.
The field umpire shall allow play to continue if the ball is accidently knocked out of a player’s hands by an
opponent.
There is strictly no bumping, slinging or deliberately bringing the opposition player in possession of the ball
to the ground.
Players cannot:
e) Knock the ball out of an opponent’s hands;
f) Push the player in the side;
g) Steal the ball from another player; or
h) Smother an opponent’s kick
A free kick shall be awarded to any infringed player.
Bouncing the Ball:
A player may bounce the ball only once, and then dispose of it. In the case of any infringement, the umpire
shall effect a ball-up at the spot where the second bounce occurs.
Staying in Position:
Insofar as practical, players must stay in or near their allocated positions. Umpires will have discretion to
stop play and demand players return to their positions when they deem play to be overly congested.
Order off Rule:
The order-off rule applying in other WRFL grades will apply in Under 12 girls matches.
Mercy Rule:
The Mercy Rule will apply to the Under 12 mixed age group and will be invoked by the umpires if the score
differential at half time or three quarter time of a match is sixty (60) points or greater. Once invoked the rule
will remain in place for the remainder of the match.
Once invoked the following change to match conditions will be implemented by the umpires:
• After any score by the winning team, play is restarted with the losing team given possession of the
ball in the centre circle.
• All players (both teams) must remain in their positions and on-ballers/wingers must stay behind the
centre circle away from the kicker. Penalty for non-compliance is a 50m penalty.
There is no discretion for club officials to agree to non-implementation of the Mercy Rule. The Mercy Rule
does not apply in finals matches.
This rule is not designed to achieve an even sharing of the ball between all players irrespective of their
ability. The purpose of the rule is, however, to create a more fair and even contest once one team has a
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 17 of 25significant lead in a match. The WRFL expects all team officials, players and supporters to adhere to the
spirit of this rule and reserve the right to monitor all matches to ensure clubs are meeting this responsibility.
UNDER 15 (GIRLS) COMPETITION
UPDATES
Changes to the Under 15 girls competition match rules are the following;
• Starting time of match will generally be 12:50pm
• 18 players permitted on the ground per side (evening up rule to apply if teams have less than 18
players)
• Kicking off the ground now permitted
• Distance penalty now 15m in line with Under 14 mixed competition
CURRENT MATCH RULES
Other than the rules listed above the Under 15 girls competition on-field match rules will be the same as
season 2018.
Evening Up of Players:
Detailed information regarding the Evening up of Players rule can be found further in the document.
UNDER 18 (GIRLS) COMPETITION
UPDATES
Changes to the Under 18 girls competition match rules are the following;
• Starting time of match will generally be 2:40pm
• 18 players permitted on the ground per side (evening up rule to apply if teams have less than 18
players)
• Distance penalty now 50m in line with Under 16 boys competition
CURRENT MATCH RULES
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 18 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019Other than the rules listed above the Under 18 girls competition on-field match rules will be the same as season 2018. Evening Up of Players: Detailed information regarding the Evening up of Players rule can be found further in the document. Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 19 of 25
EVENING UP OF PLAYERS RULE
Applied in the following competitions;
• Under 12 Mixed
• Under 12 Girls
• Under 14 Mixed
• Under 15 Girls
• Under 18 Girls
*Under 8, 9, 10 (mixed and girls) matches MUST even up players in the spirit of junior football.
Where a team in grades listed above has less than 18 players on their team sheet, the following modified
rules shall apply:
1. If a team does not have 14 of its own registered players a scratch match will be played with the
opposing team receiving a win by forfeit (as per by-law 3.5).
2. Where a team does not have a full 18 players, it must approach the opposing team and request that
players be loaned to even up team numbers. This request should be made at least 15 minutes prior
to the commencement of the match. If the team requiring players does not make this request, then
the opposing team may take the field with an additional two players (up to the maximum player
numbers of 18 e.g. team A has 15 players and does not request players be loaned, team B may
take the field with 17 players).
3. Where a team has requested players to be loaned and still takes the field with less than 18 players,
the opposing team must also take the field with the same amount of players.
4. Any goals kicked or best player votes received whilst playing for the opposing team should appear
for the player’s regular team.
5. Players on loan can be rotated back each quarter.
6. If a club requiring players does not have sufficient jumpers available the evening up rule will not
apply.
7. Player send offs or injuries incurred during the game will not results in evening up of players.
8. The evening up rule does not apply in finals matches
9. The evening up rule can be used for junior grades other than those previously listed, with the mutual
agreement of both coaches.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 20 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019ORDER OFF RULE
1. Any player or match official may be ordered from the field, for any offence of manhandling, assault
or threatening an umpire during the progress of any match and shall be precluded from returning to
the field for the remainder of the match, and shall be reported by the field umpire. The umpire will
show a RED card. Any such player so ordered off cannot be replaced.
2. The field umpire shall have the power to report to the Tribunal and/or order from the field any player
or official who during any match commits a reportable offence or whose actions are not considered
in the best interest of the League. The offender shall be shown a YELLOW card and is to remain off
the field for a period of 15 minutes playing time, in which time they cannot be replaced.
3. Upon being shown the YELLOW card the offender must go directly to the coaches box, save any
match official who must leave the playing arena (behind the fence or four meters behind the
boundary line), and remain there for the duration of the order off period. The official team runner
must report to the timekeepers who will note the time that the report was received (not the time of
the incident triggering the send-off) and advise the official or player through the runner when a
further period of 15 minutes is completed.
4. Any player ordered off who does not go straight to the coaches box, or remain there (unless carried
off or via the blood rule), will not be able to return for the remainder of the match, but can be
replaced after the 15 minutes of playing time has elapsed, unless the player had been ordered off
for the second time in the match.
5. In the event of a player or official failing or refusing to leave the ground when ordered off, they shall
be reported for misconduct, the match shall terminate and the offending player’s team deemed to
have forfeited.
6. Any player or match official ordered from the field for the second time during any match, shall be
precluded from returning to the field for the remainder of the match, and shall be reported by the
field umpire. The umpire shall show a RED card, the player cannot be replaced.
7. In the event of a player or players being ordered off while on the interchange bench, the team shall
be required to remove the equivalent number of players from the field for the duration of the send-
off (example: two players are sent off while on the bench, the team must play with 23 16 players for
the duration of the send-off). The player or players who received the order off cannot play during the
order off period.
8. In all home/away and finals games, all officially appointed umpires in addition to the field umpire
appointed to that game shall have the power to order players or match officials from the playing
field. They shall contact the field umpire at the first opportunity who shall direct the player or match
official in accordance with by-laws 3.21.1and 3.21.2.
9. Any player or match official ordered off for a third occasion during the one (1) season shall
automatically receive a one (1) week suspension. A fourth order off shall incur a two (2) week
suspension, a fifth order off shall incur a three (3) week suspension. Further send offs shall result in
the player appearing before the
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 21 of 2510. Any such suspensions shall be served cumulatively with any penalty handed down by the Tribunal,
IHC or accepted under by-law 3.14.4 (automatic penalty). Any player/official ordered off who is
reported for the incident for which they were ordered off, and subsequently found not guilty, the
send-off shall not apply for the purpose of calculating a suspension under this by-law
WRFL By-Law 3.21 ORDER OFF RULE
MERCY RULE
Mercy Rule:
The Mercy Rule will apply to the Under 12 mixed age group and will be invoked by the umpires if the score
differential at half time or three quarter time of a match is sixty (60) points or greater. Once invoked the rule
will remain in place for the remainder of the match.
Once invoked the following change to match conditions will be implemented by the umpires:
• After any score by the winning team, play is restarted with the losing team given possession of the
ball in the centre circle.
• All players (both teams) must remain in their positions and on-ballers/wingers must stay behind the
centre circle away from the kicker. Penalty for non-compliance is a 50m penalty.
There is no discretion for club officials to agree to non-implementation of the Mercy Rule. The Mercy Rule
does not apply in finals matches.
This rule is not designed to achieve an even sharing of the ball between all players irrespective of their
ability. The purpose of the rule is, however, to create a more fair and even contest once one team has a
significant lead in a match. The WRFL expects all team officials, players and supporters to adhere to the
spirit of this rule and reserve the right to monitor all matches to ensure clubs are meeting this responsibility.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 22 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019AFL RULE CHANGES
The following AFL rule changes will be implemented across all WRFL competitions in season 2019,
including competitions with modified rules (U8, U9, U10 mixed and girls). Competitions with modified rules
will override any of the following AFL rules.
TRADITIONAL PLAYING POSITIONS AT CENTRE BOUNCE
Implementation of a traditional set up at centre bounces – teams must have six (6) players inside both 50-
metre arcs, with one player required to be inside the goal square. Four midfield players are positioned
inside the centre square with the wingmen required to be placed somewhere along the wing.
KICK-INS
• For kick-ins from a behind, a player will no longer need to kick to themselves to play on out of the
goal square
• Following a behind, the player on the mark will be positioned 10 metres from the top of the goal
square (currently 5 metres).
MARKS / FREE KICKS
For all defenders who take a mark or gain a free kick within 9 metres of their own goal, the player on the
mark for the attacking team will be brought in line with the top of the goal square.
WATER CARRIERS
Water Carriers are not permitted to enter the Playing Surface during live play.
UMPIRE CONTACT
Players will be prohibited from setting up behind the Umpire at each centre bounce.
DISTANCE PENALTY
Stricter on the infringing player, allowing the player with the ball to advance the mark without the infringing
player delaying the game.
In addition, the player with the football will be able to play on during the advancement of the penalty
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 23 of 25KICKING FOR GOAL POST SIREN – CENTRE OF GOAL LINE
A player who has been awarded a mark or free kick once play has ended will now be able to kick across
their body using a snap or check-side kick. The player shall dispose of the football directly in line with the
person on the mark and the goal.
MARKING CONTEST
‘Hands in the Back’ rule interpretation to be repealed, allowing a player to place their hands on the back of
their opponent to protect their position in a marking contest but not to push the player in the back.
RUCK CONTESTS – PRIOR OPPORTUNITY
A ruck player who takes possession of the football while contesting a bounce or throw up by a field umpire
or boundary throw in by a boundary umpire, will not be regarded as having had prior opportunity. Where
there is uncertainty over who is the designated ruck, the ruck for each team will continue to nominate to the
field umpire.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Page 24 of 25 Issue Date: 27 March 2019JUNIOR GIRLS OVER AGE PERMITS
Application for junior girls over age exemptions;
To be eligible for an exemption the player must;
1. Be no older than one (1) year above the age group they are requesting to play in i.e. turning 16 in
the competition year to play Under 15 Girls.
2. Must not have played any more than five (5) competitive matches prior to the competition season
There may be no more than three (3) over age players playing in each competition age group from the one
Club.
An individual permit remains at the discretion of the League.
Appendix J to WRFL By-laws: WRFL On-Field & On-Court Apparel Style Guide
Issue Date: 27 March 2019 Page 25 of 25You can also read
