SOUTHLAND WIDE RUGBY CLUB COMPETITION RULES - 2021 SEASON Ratified by Rugby Southland Advisory Committee: 13/04/2021
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SOUTHLAND WIDE
RUGBY CLUB
COMPETITION RULES
2021 SEASON
Ratified by Rugby Southland Advisory Committee:
13/04/2021
1Contents
1. Control: ........................................................................................................................................... 5
2. Laws of the Game: .......................................................................................................................... 5
3. Competitions:.................................................................................................................................. 5
3.1. Starting Dates ............................................................................................................................... 5
3.2. Senior Competition ...................................................................................................................... 5
3.3. Other Southland Wide Grades ..................................................................................................... 5
3.4. Playing of Competitions ............................................................................................................... 5
3.5. Promotion/Relegation .................................................................................................................. 6
4. Team Entries: .................................................................................................................................. 6
4.1. Team Entry Dates ......................................................................................................................... 6
4.2. Under 18 Players Playing in Senior Competitions ........................................................................ 6
4.3. Students Playing in Senior Competitions ..................................................................................... 6
5. Registrations: .................................................................................................................................. 6
5.1. Online Registrations ..................................................................................................................... 6
5.2. Registration Sanctions .................................................................................................................. 6
5.3. Gender ......................................................................................................................................... 6
6. Transfers: ........................................................................................................................................ 7
6.1. Players Transferring Clubs Between Seasons ............................................................................... 7
6.2. Players Transferring Clubs Inside Seasons – online applications .................................................. 7
6.3. Overseas Players .......................................................................................................................... 7
6.4. Transfer Sanctions........................................................................................................................ 7
7. Re-grading: ...................................................................................................................................... 7
7.1. Senior Grade ................................................................................................................................ 7
7.2. Academy and Contracted Players ................................................................................................ 7
7.3. Player Eligibility for Semi-finals and Finals ................................................................................... 8
7.4. Higher Graded Players (Senior Grades) ........................................................................................ 8
7.5. Regrades (Secondary School and Below) ..................................................................................... 8
7.5.1. Semi-finals and finals ............................................................................................................ 8
7.6. University and Boarding Students ................................................................................................ 8
7.7. Two Teams in the Same Grade..................................................................................................... 8
7.8. Borrowing of Players – Round Robin Games ................................................................................ 9
7.9. Borrowing of Players – Semi-finals and Finals .............................................................................. 9
8. Age Grade Dispensations: ............................................................................................................... 9
8.1. Age Grade Competitions (Specific Age)........................................................................................ 9
8.2. Primary School (Year 8 and Below) .............................................................................................. 9
8.3. Dispensation Forms...................................................................................................................... 9
28.4. Secondary School Grade Dispensation Numbers (Form H) ........................................................ 10
8.5. Conditional Dispensations .......................................................................................................... 10
8.6. Exceptional Circumstances Case Assessment (Form H2) ........................................................... 10
8.7. List of Dispensated Players ......................................................................................................... 10
8.8. Ineligible Players ........................................................................................................................ 10
8.9. Team Sheet ................................................................................................................................ 10
8.10. Case by Case ............................................................................................................................ 10
8.11. Guidelines for Dispensations.................................................................................................... 10
9. Team Numbers: ............................................................................................................................ 11
9.1. Number of Players in Team ........................................................................................................ 11
9.2. Jersey Numbers .......................................................................................................................... 11
9.3. Front Row Player Information .................................................................................................... 11
10. Team Sheet/Results: ................................................................................................................. 11
10.1. Complete Team Sheet Information .......................................................................................... 11
10.2. Forward Completed Team Sheets to Rugby Southland ............................................................ 11
11. Match Venue and Times: .......................................................................................................... 12
11.1. Match Start Time ..................................................................................................................... 12
11.2. Rescheduling of Games ............................................................................................................ 12
11.3. Preseason Games ..................................................................................................................... 12
11.4. Fixtures Played Under Lights .................................................................................................... 12
11.5. Venues ..................................................................................................................................... 12
11.6. Les George Oval ....................................................................................................................... 13
11.7. Grounds/Barriers and Applaud Match Managers .................................................................... 13
12. Defaults: .................................................................................................................................... 13
13. Abandonment of Games: .......................................................................................................... 14
13.1. Ground and Weather ............................................................................................................... 14
13.2. Conduct .................................................................................................................................... 14
13.3. Injury Stoppage/Lighting Failure .............................................................................................. 14
13.4. Cancellation of Scheduled Rounds ........................................................................................... 14
14. Match Officials: ......................................................................................................................... 14
14.1. No Referee ............................................................................................................................... 14
14.2. No Appointed Assistant Referee .............................................................................................. 15
14.3. Replacement Referee............................................................................................................... 15
15. Protests/Complaints ................................................................................................................. 15
16. Competition (Flag) Points (All Grades): ..................................................................................... 15
17. Match Balls................................................................................................................................ 15
18. Semi-Finals and Finals ............................................................................................................... 16
318.1. Semi-Final Team Ratings .......................................................................................................... 16
18.2. Venues ..................................................................................................................................... 16
18.3. Unregistered or Ineligible Players ............................................................................................ 16
18.4. Scores Tied at the End of Normal Time .................................................................................... 16
19. General ..................................................................................................................................... 16
19.1. Amalgamated Teams ............................................................................................................... 16
19.2. Amalgamation of Clubs ............................................................................................................ 16
19.3. Provincial Players ..................................................................................................................... 17
19.4. Similar Colours ......................................................................................................................... 17
19.5. Sponsorship.............................................................................................................................. 17
20. Age Grade Specific Rules ............................................................................................................. 17
20.1 Half Game Rule ............................................................................................................................ 17
21. Disciplinary ................................................................................................................................ 17
22. Disputes .................................................................................................................................... 18
23. Fines .......................................................................................................................................... 18
Appendix 1 ............................................................................................................................................ 19
Appendix 2: Game On ........................................................................................................................... 22
Appendix 3: Blue Card Concussion Initiative ......................................................................................... 23
RSAC – Rugby Southland Advisory Committee
YRC – Youth Rugby Council
CRLM – Community Rugby Liaison Manager
CRA – Community Rugby Administrator
REO – Referee Education Officer
RDO – Rugby Development Officer
RS – Rugby Southland
RSR – Rugby Southland Referees
DSLV – Domestic Safety Law Variations
World Rugby Laws: https://www.world.rugby/the-game/laws/home
NZR Domestic Safety Law Variations: https://www.nzrugby.co.nz/about-nzr/what-we-do/regulations/domestic-safety-law-variations-dslv/
NZR Disciplinary Rules: https://www.nzrugby.co.nz/about-nzr/what-we-do/regulations/other-regulations/
4SOUTHLAND WIDE RUGBY CLUB COMPETITION AND ASSOCIATED
COMPETITIONS IN SOUTHLAND
RULES
1. Control:
All matches including non-competition games shall be under the control of Rugby Southland and all entries shall
be subject to its approval. Rugby Southland Advisory Committee (RSAC) work co-operatively with Rugby
Southland to assist with the delivery and development for all levels of rugby in Southland including:
• Classifying clubs, teams and players
• Scheduling dates, times and venues
• Dealing with questions arising from competition formats and games
• Making decisions in the best interests for rugby and the rugby community in Southland
Note: This is a live document and with approval from Rugby Southland and in the interest of Southland Rugby
amendments may be made at any time. Changes to these rules will be notified to Clubs by Rugby Southland.
2. Laws of the Game:
All games including non-competition games shall be played under the World Rugby Laws of the Game and in
accordance with the New Zealand Rugby Domestic Safety Law Variations (DSLVs) where applicable. Links to
these can be found on the Rugby Southland website under Forms & Documents. Any significant changes to
these shall be notified to Clubs by Rugby Southland.
3. Competitions:
3.1. Starting Dates
• Senior Male Grades will commence no earlier than Saturday 10th April 2021.
• Senior Women will commence no earlier than Sunday 11th April 2021.
3.2. Senior Competition
The senior competition will encompass the following divisions:
• Premier – Galbraith Shield
• Division 1 – Ack Soper Shield & Gerald Dermody Shield
• Division 2 – C J Soper Trophy & Life Members Trophy
• Presidents – Presidents Cup & Trophy
• Women – Women’s Trophy
The structure of these competitions is outlined in Appendix 4.
3.3. Other Southland Wide Grades
There will also be other age grades as determined by team entries down to “A’ Grade-Primary School (inclusive).
3.4. Playing of Competitions
All competitions will be played dependent on the structure set down by the RSAC. The RSAC and RS will advise
all relevant teams on how their competition will run, for the whole season as soon as practical prior to the
competition starting. This will include how many rounds, the format of semi-finals and finals where relevant
and whether flag points are carried over.
53.5. Promotion/Relegation
Promotion/Relegation will be by application and to be reviewed by RSAC. New entry placements in the Senior
competition will be at the discretion of the RSAC.
4. Team Entries:
4.1. Team Entry Dates
All clubs and schools must supply the Community Rugby Administrator (CRA) with team entries for their Club
for all grades by completing Form A1 and Form A2 as displayed on the Rugby Southland Website. The following
dates will apply:
• Senior Men and Senior Women – Monday 22nd February 2021
• All Other Southland Wide Grades (as determined by the RSAC) – Date TBC
4.2. Under 18 Players Playing in Senior Competitions
Clubs of any U18 player playing in a senior competition as classified under rule 3.2 must:
• Supply that players completed Form C to the CRA prior to playing any Competition or pre-season game.
• Be aware of any other option/team for the player to play in.
• Notify the match referee on every occasion they are playing.
RSAC Members will sight the player playing and have the right to withdraw the players consent to play Senior
Rugby. NB: No player who is 15 years old or younger is eligible to play Senior Rugby.
4.3. Students Playing in Senior Competitions
Any student that attends a Southland Secondary School which participates in a Southland Wide Competition
must have a clearance from the school before they can play any Club by completing Form E and Form C located
on the Rugby Southland Website.
5. Registrations:
5.1. Online Registrations
All clubs/schools must have all players, coaches and mangers in their teams complete an NZR Online registration
on their respective Sporty website prior to their first game.
a) All team coaches and managers must complete the NZR Online Registration Form on their respective
Sporty Website and e-learning course (linked to their Online Registration form for RugbySmart) and
attend a COMPULSORY RugbySmart/Small Blacks Course.
5.2. Registration Sanctions
a) Any club playing unregistered players in the Senior Competition may forfeit the match and the
maximum (5) points may be awarded to the opposing team.
b) Any club/school playing unregistered players in a Secondary/Junior Competition may forfeit the match
and the maximum (5) points may be awarded to the opposing team.
c) Any club/school team may lose competition points if the Coaches/Managers fail to complete a
RugbySmart or Small Blacks course (both e-learning and practical course component).
d) Clubs playing unregistered players (NZR online registration not completed) may be fined $50 per
unregistered player.
5.3. Gender
As per World Rugby mixed gender rugby guidelines, all grades above Under 13 (A Grade) shall be for single
gender only.
66. Transfers:
6.1. Players Transferring Clubs Between Seasons
Any player who transfers from club or school to another within Southland (or from another New Zealand club)
between seasons is NOT required to complete a transfer form. The player MUST however complete an NZR
Online Player Registration form for their new club PRIOR TO PLAYING. Players who have Registration Restricted
tags should arrange with their previous Union for these to be removed.
6.2. Players Transferring Clubs Inside Seasons – online applications
When a club requests the transfer of a player, this is completed within their Sporty page. The club that is
currently the players registered club can accept or decline the request. The system will automatically approve
the transfer after 7 days if the current club does not decline the request.
a) Where a transfer is requested after the fourth week of the commencement of the competition, the
requesting club must notify the CRLM prior to playing for the new club.
b) Any player who transfers after Saturday 29th May 2021 will not be eligible to play in the semi-finals or
finals of any grades.
c) Any player who has been granted transfer to play club rugby in another provincial union after the
commencement of the Southland Wide competition, is ineligible for a return transfer (into the
Southland Wide competition) for a minimum of 28 days from approval of the initial transfer.
6.3. Overseas Players
Overseas players, or NZ players returning from overseas playing commitments, must have a World Rugby
International Clearance from their home Union or for New Zealand players returning home, a World Rugby
International Clearance from the country from which they are returning. Any player who has not completed
this process will NOT be permitted to play club rugby until the necessary World Rugby International Clearance
has been obtained (Form F on the Rugby Southland Website). It is the players responsibility to ensure that they
obtain an international clearance as per NZR international clearance policy.
Note: all players that intend to play overseas need an international clearance. Form F needs to be completed
and forwarded to the CRA at Rugby Southland for processing prior to leaving New Zealand, this should prevent
delays when trying to play in your new Country.
6.4. Transfer Sanctions
If a team fields a player in breach of the Transfer or World Rugby Clearance rules, it will forfeit any competition
points which it may have been awarded for the match in which that player has participated and a monetary fine
of $250.00 will be applied to the club.
7. Re-grading:
7.1. Senior Grade
All Senior Grade teams shall be classified as being one grade. This is to provide for regular interchange of players
between teams, with the exception of those players who fall under Rule 7.2.
Players in combined teams may only return to play for the club to which they are registered.
This rule applies for round robin play only. For semi-final and final eligibility, please refer to rules 7.3. and 7.4.
7.2. Academy and Contracted Players
Academy Players and Southland Contracted Players are not eligible to interchange as per the above rule. The
CRLM of Rugby Southland is in possession of the list of these players.
77.3. Player Eligibility for Semi-finals and Finals
I. For a player to be eligible to play in the semi-finals or final of a Southland Wide Rugby Club Competition,
that player must be solely and continuously registered for community rugby with Rugby Southland or
one of the clubs/schools in Southland in the current and/or previous season. This rule will not apply to
those who meet the requirements under rule 7.3. II.
II. Players not solely and continuously registered for Community Rugby with Rugby Southland, or one of
the Southland Wide Competition clubs/schools in the previous and/or current seasons, including
International and Super Rugby players must be registered and playing club rugby in Southland on or
before Saturday 29th May 2021 to be eligible to play in the semi-final or final of their respective grade.
(The intent of this rule is that the player will continuously play the remainder of the round robin beyond
Saturday 29th May 2021.)
III. Any player who is granted a transfer after Saturday 29th May 2021 is ineligible to play in the semi-finals
or final of any Southland Wide Competition. Rule 7.3.III. overrides both 7.3.I. and 7.3. II.
7.4. Higher Graded Players (Senior Grades)
When a player has been named on a higher graded team sheet on four or more occasions, to then be eligible
to play in a lower graded semi-final or final, they need to have been named (and played) on the lower graded
team sheet on at least 50% of scheduled competition matches during round-robin play. Similarly, for any player
to play in any grade after the completion of the Premier grade regular season, Saturday 3rd July 2020, they must
have already been named on the team sheet of that team for more than 50% of that grades regular season –
including players in combined teams.
Teams who are defaulted to, will be entitled to count the match as having been played as scheduled for the
purpose of eligibility, provided that the team sheet is loaded via the MyRugby app as per Rule 10.2.
7.5. Regrades (Secondary School and Below)
For all grades Secondary School and below, if a player has appeared on the Team Sheet four or more times for
a higher graded team, they will be deemed to be a higher graded player. This player cannot return to play for
their original grade unless they are re-graded. Applications for a re-grade must be submitted via Form G on the
Rugby Southland Website by noon on the Thursday prior to Saturday games, or 48 hours prior for other games
for approval to be given prior to returning to the original grade. Flag points may be deducted from any team
abusing this rule.
7.5.1. Semi-finals and finals
There shall be no new regrades approved for teams who have qualified for semi-finals and finals matches.
Under the Domestic Safety Law Variations, the “Half Game Rule” applies to all levels of domestic rugby below
but not including Secondary School 1st XV Boys grade. Therefore, players who appear on a 1st XV Boys team
sheet and who consistently play off the bench for 15 minutes or less may play for a lower graded team, providing
the player is age eligible. Any decision to allow plater movement between the two grades will be made by the
CRLM in discussion with the YRC Chairperson.
7.6. University and Boarding Students
University and boarding school students may play at club rugby level for a club in their home residential district
during their academic holiday period, but they must have an approved transfer from their current club via the
Sporty system to enable them to play. The CRLM at Rugby Southland MUST be notified prior to such a player
taking the field under these circumstances.
7.7. Two Teams in the Same Grade
Any club or school who has more than one team in the same grade cannot play players between these teams,
except under Rule 7.8.
87.8. Borrowing of Players – Round Robin Games
Where a team, club or school has insufficient numbers to field a team for safety reasons or have less than the
required minimum number to field a team, that team, club or school may put a case to the CRLM to temporarily
borrow players on a ‘game by game’ basis. The team, club or school can approach another team, from within
Southland, to check availability and put their case to the CRLM. Any decision to allow temporary borrowing of
players will be made by the CRLM in discussion with the Chairman or RSAC (where this is the same person, the
discussion will be had between the CRLM and the Deputy Chairman of RSAC) on the basis that rugby in
Southland will benefit as a whole and not any individual team, club or school.
In the event that on the day if 16 registered players to that team are available these players must be played and
any borrowed players omitted.
A player temporarily borrowed must be either from a team in the same grade or from a team in a lower grade.
Contracted and academy players will not be considered.
7.9. Borrowing of Players – Semi-finals and Finals
Only the borrowing of front row players will be considered for semi-finals and finals. Where a team, club or
school is struggling to put front row players on the rugby field, for safety reasons, that team, club or school may
put a case to the CRLM to temporarily borrow a front row player(s) on a game-by-game basis. Other positions
will not be considered for semi-finals and finals.
The borrowed front row player cannot take the field ahead of that team’s front row players unless position
specific (e.g. prop for prop, hooker for hooker).
A known suitably trained and experienced front row player who has consistently played in that teams front row
for the current season must remain as a front row player in that team and cannot be moved into another
position to make way for a borrowed front row player.
A player temporarily borrowed must be either from a team in the same grade or from a team in a lower grade.
Contracted and Academy player will not be considered.
8. Age Grade Dispensations:
8.1. Age Grade Competitions (Specific Age)
Players taking part in an Age Grade competition must be under the specified age as of January 1st preceding the
start of the season. Rugby Southland requires clubs and schools to submit proof of age when making
registrations or at any stage during the season.
8.2. Primary School (Year 8 and Below)
‘Primary School – A Grade’ is classified as Primary School students Year 8 and below. Dispensations will be
considered on a case-by-case basis. (i.e. in a school year higher than their age, live in a remote area etc).
8.3. Dispensation Forms
Located on the Rugby Southland Website – Forms & Documents
An Age Dispensation application must be completed using Form H to play in a grade lower than their age.
An Exceptional Circumstances Case Assessment Form must be completed using Form H2 to play in grades higher
than the players age band. Form H2 defines the bands based on grade/sex.
All dispensation forms for the year must be completed and returned to Rugby Southland two weeks prior to
the commencement of the competition or prior to preseason games so the YRC Dispensation Committee can
make assessments prior to competitions starting. New players arriving at clubs or schools after this date must
complete a Form H or Form H2 and get approval to take the field so they can be assessed if required.
98.4. Secondary School Grade Dispensation Numbers (Form H)
Four dispensated players are permitted per team. A Full dispensation or a Conditional dispensation can be
approved. Once a player has a Full dispensation, they are treated as an ‘of age’ player and there are no game
restrictions. If a team needs to submit more than four dispensations (Form H) the team must also supply their
full playing list and a letter explaining why more dispensations are required.
8.5. Conditional Dispensations
Any player that has a Conditional Dispensation must abide by their conditions.
8.6. Exceptional Circumstances Case Assessment (Form H2)
An application should only be completed in an exceptional circumstance (players should play in their
appropriate grade where it is possible to do so). Form H2 defines the bands based on grade/age/sex and are
located on the RS website under Forms and Documents.
All case assessment requirements must be met:
• Parent/Legal Guardian consent
• Medical Specialist consent (Family physician or a medical specialist)
• Technical assessment sign off (Contact a RS RDO)
• School Principal/Club Chair approval
8.7. List of Dispensated Players
A list of Exceptional Circumstances, Full Dispensations and Conditional Dispensations in Age Grade
Competitions will be available from the YRC.
Dispensation Rulings will be notified to the Club Secretary/School RAiS by RS.
8.8. Ineligible Players
Teams playing ineligible players will lose competition points.
If a dispensated player plays up a grade, their dispensation is automatically revoked.
8.9. Team Sheet
Team sheets must be completed following Rule 10.1, accurate details on the MyRugby app for team sheets is
vital.
8.10. Case by Case
At the discretion of the YRC, individual circumstances for all dispensations will be considered on a case-by-case
basis.
8.11. Guidelines for Dispensations
Dispensation applications should be completed with as much detail as possible to assist with prompt
assessment of players.
Any change to the age dispensation rules to be at the discretion of the YRC.
Dispensation Guidelines are listed below:
a) Number in the team.
b) Does the player pose a safety risk for competition participants, if yes can the risk be mitigated –
Conditional Dispensation.
c) Experience/Height/Weight/Age
d) Is rugby available at an appropriate grade if a request for a dispensation is declined?
10e) The YRC Dispensation Committee has the right to reassess a player if they are having an obvious
influence on a team performance or if the player numbers increase during the season.
f) Common Sense.
g) Dispensations will not be automatic.
9. Team Numbers:
9.1. Number of Players in Team
All teams must not strip more than 22 players for any one game – as per Laws of the Game (World Rugby Law
3.4).
All applicable 2021 DSLVs apply in all matches unless Game On is triggered.
9.2. Jersey Numbers
All players must display an individual number, ideally starting (1-15) and reserves (16-22) as applicable. No
duplicates or inside out unnumbered jerseys are permissible. Teams failing to abide by this rule may lose flag
points and/or incur a fine of $250.
9.3. Front Row Player Information
Prior to the match, each team must advise the referee of their front row players and possible front row
replacements and which position(s) in the front row they can play. Only these players may play in the front row
when the scrum is contested and only in their designated position(s).
It is a team’s responsibility to ensure that all nominated front row players and front row replacements are
suitably trained.
Where a team is unable to provide 15 players (including three trained front rowers) to start the match, this
team shall forfeit the competition points. The match may still be played. This rule does not apply when Game
On is triggered.
10. Team Sheet/Results:
10.1. Complete Team Sheet Information
All teammates must be fully completed by the team coach, administrator or manager, including results, via the
MyRugby App. If the MyRugby App fails, please revert to below sections I-VI.
I. All Team Sheets must be fully completed, including results, managers or coaches’ signature and contain
names and numbers of all players who may take the field. This must include the players first name and
surname and be legible, nicknames are NOT acceptable.
II. If Team Sheets are not supplied, or the information supplied does not meet the requirements of this
regulation, the offending team or teams shall forfeit all competition points earned for that particular
match.
III. The opposition shall not receive these points.
IV. If both sides fail to comply with this regulation, each side will record a loss.
V. The Coach or Manager signing the Team Sheet is the person responsible to certify the information is
accurate.
VI. The referee will be responsible for recording the score and whether there were four (4) or more tries
scored during the match as per Rule 17.1(d).
10.2. Forward Completed Team Sheets to Rugby Southland
Using the MyRugby App, when the game is completed, and the score submitted, the Team Sheet will
automatically be received by Rugby Southland. The Team Sheet is to be completed no later than 48 hours
following the completion of the fixture. If the MyRugby App fails, please revert to below section I:
11I. The Team Sheet is to be forwarded by team management to the CRA at Rugby Southland no later than
the Monday afternoon or 48 hours following the completion of the fixture (whichever is sooner) and
be sent via one of the following methods
a. Email community.rugby@rugbysouthland.co.nz
b. Photo of Team Sheet and Text to 027 325 0631
c. Hard copy delivered to CRA at Rugby Southland
11. Match Venue and Times:
11.1. Match Start Time
All club matches shall start at the time stated in the RS draw, generally on a Saturday (unless otherwise
specified).
Any teams not being on the ground and ready to play at the appointed time shall be deemed to have defaulted
the match unless the RSAC, at its discretion, decides otherwise.
11.2. Rescheduling of Games
Teams can request for a game to be rescheduled by mutual consent between the teams involved by completing
Form B at least seven days prior to the game. Exceptional circumstances will be considered on a case-by-case
basis inside seven days. A Game Change Request can be completed electronically or by hard copy as follows:
The Game Change Request must be completed at least seven days prior to the game by accessing the RS
Website and completing Form B found in the Club Rugby tab under Forms & Documents. When completed, an
automatic email will generate advising Rugby Southland of the request.
Or the Game Change Request Form B can be printed, completed and sent to the CRLM and REO seven days
prior to the game.
Upon the receipt of Form B, Rugby Southland will inform the two teams of whether or not their request was
successful. If teams cannot mutually agree then the match must be played as per the original draw.
On days when Southland are playing at home, games within the Invercargill City Council area are to be played
at least two and a half hours prior to kick off and all other Senior fixtures in Southland will be drawn to not clash
with the representative fixture.
Note: If teams approach Rugby Southland within the seven (7) day period prior to the drawn date, referees may
not be appointed for a game other than the original date and time. Likewise, if teams have given at least seven
(7) days’ notice and subsequently change their mind, referees may not be appointed to games other than the
amended date and time.
11.3. Preseason Games
Form B2 must be filled in at least seven (7) days prior to the date of the game to ensure a suitable refereeing
appointment. The Form B2 must contain the teams involved, the date, time and venue.
11.4. Fixtures Played Under Lights
Any fixtures played under lights must be of 100 lux. Current approved fields are listed in Form M.
11.5. Venues
When practical, games will be played in each Sub-Union each Saturday:
a) Teams to play home games as close as possible to 50%.
b) Home game is defined as Club ground in Central, Western and Northern.
c) Town – Rugby Park Stadium, Centrepoint Park or Club grounds.
d) Eastern – The Gore Showgrounds or Club grounds.
1211.6. Les George Oval
Teams scheduled to play on Les George Oval must complete their warmup on another Centrepoint Park field
where possible. In the event that there are no other fields available or the game is being played under lights,
teams will be permitted to warm up on Les George Oval between the dead ball line and 40m, with the home
team (as listed on the draw) warming up furthest from the changing rooms. If there are no alternative areas to
warm up and there is a game already on progress, teams must warm up in the in-goal areas. Failure to adhere
to this rule may result in a fine of $100.
11.7. Grounds/Barriers and Applaud Match Managers
I. Clubs and schools must ensure that grounds are adequately controlled by appointing an Applaud vested
Match Manager to each field to manage sideline behaviour. Spectators must also be controlled by
suitable barriers. Barriers are compulsory and should be curved where possible to enable good viewing
and should also be a minimum 3 metres from the touchline. Referees will not start the match without
these barriers in place.
II. The only persons entitled to be within the playing enclosure are participating players, the referee and
their two assistants, a maximum of two (2) ball persons per team or appointed medical staff and the
appointed Applaud Match Manager, a coach should not be appointed the Match Manager. In addition,
each team may have one person on either side of the ground covering the watercarrier/tee carrier role.
No other personnel including reserves or team coaches/management are permitted to be inside the
enclosure, if a role is covered by a coach they must be behind the barrier. Clubs are encouraged to
provide a designated area outside the barriers for team reserves and management. The Match Manager
may take the necessary steps to rectify any problem, including in conjunction with the referee, calling
the match off.
III. Clubs or schools failing their responsibilities in 11.6.I. or 11.6.II. may be fined $250 and or lose hosting
rights for their next home game.
IV. In the event an appointed Match Manager is not present
a. The home team manager nominates a responsible adult to become the Applaud vested Match
Manager.
i. The Applaud vested person is not to be involved with the team or game whilst the
match is being played and ideally the nominated adult is independent of the team.
ii. The Applaud vested person is responsible for managing that matches sideline
behaviour.
iii. If there is a refusal to wear the vest or manage the sideline, then clause 11.6.III. applies.
V. Sanctions
a. Matches without an appointed Match Manager will not commence until one has been
appointed.
b. Non-compliance before or during the game results in the abandonment of the game resulting
in a default.
c. Teams failing responsibility may be fined $250 and/or lose their next home game.
d. Continued non-compliance results in the team being removed from the competition.
12. Defaults:
I. Where a team defaults to another, the maximum flag points (5) and a points differential of +20 or their
seasonal average, whichever is the greatest, shall be awarded to the non-defaulting team.
II. Any club defaulting a fixture must advise the following three parties no later than 12noon on the day
prior to the fixture:
a. Opposition Club Captain/President
b. Community Rugby Liaison Manager – Bob Cullen
c. Referee Education Officer – Dermot Hughes
III. Failure to observe all of 12.1.II may attract a fine of $250 and paid to the non-defaulting teams club and
or the Rugby Southland Referees.
13IV. Should a team default two (2) matches in succession, or three (3) at intervals in any grade, it may be
deemed to have withdrawn from the competition and any games it may have played may not be
counted in the competition.
V. The non-defaulting team will host the game in the next round if not already a home game (where
possible).
13. Abandonment of Games:
13.1. Ground and Weather
The referee in a match shall have the power to abandon the game if the condition of the ground or weather
conditions render it unfit to play, but they shall consider any request from the respective team captains for play
to proceed.
13.2. Conduct
If a match is called off by the referee because of bad conduct, the team captain and the team manager or coach
of the team must attend a meeting of the Disciplinary Sub Committee of Rugby Southland for the purposes of
discussing the reason for the match being abandoned. The referee must report the matter in writing by using
the Match Officials Report on Matches Called Off (found on the Rugby Southland and Rugby Southland Referees
Websites) to Rugby Southland within 48 hours of the match and shall attend the meeting of the Disciplinary
Sub Committee of Rugby Southland if required. Both teams shall be suspended until their officials appear before
the Disciplinary Sub Committee may act in accordance with the guidelines set out by NZR in the New Zealand
Rugby Union Disciplinary Rules 2021. No points shall be awarded to a team proven to have caused the
abandonment.
13.3. Injury Stoppage/Lighting Failure
If a match stopping injury or lighting failure occurs, then provided both teams agree, the score at the time can
be taken as the final result. If the teams do not agree and less than 75% of the match has been completed, the
match is to be rescheduled at the original venue at a time and date agreed on by both teams. If no agreement
is reached, RSAC will decide on venue, time and date. If more than 75% of the match has been completed and
the teams do not agree on a result, the result will stand.
13.4. Cancellation of Scheduled Rounds
Where weather and road conditions vary dramatically from one part of Southland to another, meaning that
conditions in some areas may be conducive to playing rugby but not in other areas, matches of the same grade
and competition may continue in areas conducive to playing. In areas not conducive to playing, games will be
postponed and played at a later date.
The postponement date will be set down by Rugby Southland, however if teams agree, rule 11.2. Rescheduling
of Games may take effect. If teams cannot agree on the date, then the date set down by Rugby Southland will
be the confirmed scheduled date. A team not honouring this date will be deemed as defaulting.
Where a full round (all games and teams being of the same grade/competition) is cancelled through weather,
road conditions or a change in COVID-19 Alert Levels, that round of games will not be played (regardless of
points standings there will be no catch-up games).
14. Match Officials:
14.1. No Referee
Should the appointed referee for any game fail to turn up for their appointed game, then clubs must contact
the referee’s emergency phone numbers:
• CRLM Bob Cullen – 027 319 8174
• REO Dermot Hughes – 027 355 3965
1414.2. No Appointed Assistant Referee
In games without an appointed assistant referee (AR) or touch judge (TJ), the team manager appoints a
responsible person, preferably an adult, that is not a reserve off the bench or a child. A coach cannot be
appointed as it is inside the barrier.
14.3. Replacement Referee
Should there be no replacement referee available then the game may be rescheduled prior to the following
weeks game.
If no referee has been appointed the two teams may agree upon a referee. If they cannot agree, the home team
appoints a referee. Non contested scrums must be applied in all fixtures, unless the replacement referee is
registered to the Rugby Southland referees or has completed a RugbySmart course and/or an Associate Referee
course.
15. Protests/Complaints
Where a cause for a protest is known before a match, the opposing team should be notified and if the complaint
is remedied then no further action will be taken.
If the team protested against is unable or unwilling to remedy matters, the game should be played “under
protest” and a written protest be given to the CRLM within 48 hours. The CRLM must also be notified verbally
that the game has been played under protest within two hours of the final whistle.
Where the grounds of protest are discovered during or after the game, the protest must be made within 48
hours of the completion of the game in writing to the CRLM.
Protests must be in writing and accompanied by a fee of $200. That fee will be refunded unless the protest is
considered frivolous.
If any person wants to lodge a complaint about any incident during a game, they must complete Form J and
send to Rugby Southland within 48 hours of the completion of the game.
16. Competition (Flag) Points (All Grades):
Flag points shall be awarded as follows:
a) Win – four (4) points.
b) Draw – two (2) points.
c) Loss by seven or less points – one (1) point.
d) Four or more tries scored – one (1) point.
e) Teams who are defaulted to – five (5) points.
f) Teams who have a BYE – five (5) points.
17. Match Balls
Prior to the commencement of the first Southland Wide Competition game, the home team must present three
new match balls. Thereafter these balls will be used for home games. These balls will be Gilbert Revolution X
or Gilbert Barbarian (Size 5) and available for inspection by the opposing Captain and the Match Referee prior
to the game.
Failure to provide the three match balls may lead to a fine of $100, on the written complaint of the visiting
team’s captain, verified by the Referee.
Note: Primary School A-Grade are to use a Size 4 Gilbert Ball in accordance with the DSLVs.
1518. Semi-Finals and Finals
18.1. Semi-Final Team Ratings
Rating of teams for semi-finals is as follows:
a) Flag points.
b) Where teams are tied on flag points rankings will be determined using the flag points won in games
played between the tied teams.
c) The team having the higher differential between the average of points for and against in the round.
d) The most tries scored in the round.
e) The most successful conversions and penalties in the round.
f) Toss of a coin – facilitated by the CRLM.
18.2. Venues
The venue for semi-finals will be determined by the CRLM and RSAC. The highest qualifiers in all grades are to
get home advantage.
Exception to home game advantage:
a) Club/School Teams outside the Southland province/boundary invited to play in the Southland Wide
Rugby Club Competition will not be considered for a home semi-final – all semi-finals will be played in
Southland at a Southland venue.
18.3. Unregistered or Ineligible Players
Playing unregistered or ineligible players, in semi-finals or finals will result in an automatic loss.
18.4. Scores Tied at the End of Normal Time
In a Senior competitions semi-final or final where the score is tied at the end of the normal time the winner will
be determined by the following criteria, which shall be applied in order of sequence until a result as to the
precedence of one of the relevant teams is determined:
a) A further ten (10) minutes each way will be played. There will be an interval of five (5) minutes before
further time was played. Teams will re-toss to determine kick-off. A further two (2) minute interval will
be observed after the first extra ten (10) minutes.
b) The team scoring the most tries in the match.
c) The highest ranked finalist is declared the winner.
In grades Under 19 and down where no extra time is permitted, the winner shall be determined by the following
criteria:
a) The team scoring the most tries in the match.
b) The highest ranked finalist is declared the winner.
19. General
19.1. Amalgamated Teams
Entries from amalgamated teams will be accepted and will be ranked at the highest ranking of the individual
teams.
19.2. Amalgamation of Clubs
Where there is an amalgamation of Clubs, the new (amalgamated) Club may put a case to the RSAC to have
more than one Senior team so as to protect their player base. The RSAC will consider any case by merit and will
make a decision on the basis that rugby in Southland will benefit as a whole and not just the amalgamated club.
Where there is an amalgamation of Clubs, which has two or more teams registered in the same grade, approval
can be given for the teams to interchange up to three players per game. Abuse of this rule would lead to
discontinuance.
16With regard to Premier, Division 1, Division 2, Presidents Grade and Senior Women, only one team per grade
will be allowed unless exceptional circumstances arise. Application can be made to the RSAC on the basis rugby
in Southland will benefit as a whole and not any individual team, club or school.
19.3. Provincial Players
Any team which plays a representative player, who has been asked by the Provincial Coach to not play Club
Rugby prior to a Representative fixture, may be penalised by loss of flag points.
19.4. Similar Colours
In the event of two teams’ colours being similar, the team to change jerseys to neutral colours will be the away
team or when playing at a neutral venue, the team whose name appears second in the draw.
19.5. Sponsorship
Clubs must make themselves familiar with and observe Rugby Southland requirements on Sponsorship. There
is a maximum size for sponsorship emblems to be on playing kit as determined by World Rugby. If updating
your playing kit, please contact Rugby Southland Marketing Co-Ordinator Jack King. No conflicting uniform will
be authorised.
20. Age Grade Specific Rules
20.1 Half Game Rule
Applicable at all levels of domestic rugby below but not including Secondary School 1st XV grades. ALL players
in a squad off 22 players or less must play a minimum of half a game each match.
A Grade – All players must play a minimum of half a game (this is to include at least two full quarters). Rolling
substitutions are not permitted. Substitutions may be made at half time or approximately halfway through
each half when the referee will allow and signal a Substitution Break. This must be agreed by the referee in
conjunction with both Team Managers before the game starts.
Rolling substitutions are not permitted in any grade below but not including Secondary School 1st XV Grades.
Note: The Half Game Rule is a Team Responsibility.
21. Disciplinary
21.1. The Rugby Southland Judicial Committee will be the tribunal for disciplinary matters arising from incidents
within Rugby Southland’s boundaries. The disciplinary rules of Rugby Southland and the New Zealand Rugby
Union Disciplinary Rules 2021 will determine the process for dealing with Orderings Off, Yellow Cards,
Complaints, Referee Reports, Misconduct and Matches Called Off.
21.2. A player ordered from the field by a Referee for foul play, will receive a mandatory suspension of two
“games” i.e. matches as per the NZR Disciplinary Rules or three “games” where the Ordering Off was for Foul
Play involving contact with the opponents head, without immediate recourse to a disciplinary hearing. Rugby
Southland will inform all parties including the player and their club, in writing, of the period of suspension.
21.3. Should the mandatory suspensions be formally contested by the player or Rugby Southland in writing
within 48 hours of the offence then a Judicial Committee hearing will be convened.
21.4. If a player, following a formal warning for two sin-bin (yellow card) offences within the season, is sin-
binned on a third occasion the player will receive a mandatory suspension of one match, as per NZR guidelines
without immediate recourse to a disciplinary hearing; that is unless the mandatory suspension is contested in
clause 19.3, in which case a hearing will be convened. Contesting of the mandatory suspension needs to be
advised to Rugby Southland (using Form J) within 48 hours of the game’s completion.
1721.5. Where the Rugby Southland Judicial Sub-Committee is satisfied that a team is responsible for the
abandonment of a game as in rule 13.2, they will advise the Rugby Southland Judicial liaison who will in turn
advise the Club that their team was responsible for the abandonment, and all flag points received for the
abandoned game will be deducted. This deduction of flag points may be in addition to any other penalty the
Judicial Committee may impose.
21.6. The Judicial Committee shall have power to deal with acts of misconduct by any person, Club or Union
which occur on or other than on the playing enclosure before, during or after the playing of all matches as the
Judicial Committee may from time to time determine, arising in a rugby setting.
21.7. “Person” shall have the meaning set out in Rule 38 of the NZR Rules for Disciplinary Hearings.
21.8. Any on-field incidents not reported or dealt with by the referee and need to be advised to Rugby Southland
on Form I within 48 hours of the game’s completion.
21.9. The Rugby Southland Judicial Committee may also adopt alternate procedures, such as the Duty Judicial
Officer System, as further outlined in Appendix 1 & under the Judiciary process document found on the Rugby
Southland website under Forms & Documents.
22. Disputes
Any dispute over the interpretation of the guidelines or rulings will be referred to the RSAC that, with Rugby
Southland, controls those competitions for resolution. Where matters arise, which are not covered by these
rules, then RSAC will advise these matters onto Rugby Southland for a decision. Appeals regarding any decision
of the YRC, RSAC or its Sub-Committees shall be heard in the first instance as a re-hearing of the issue by the
full RSAC with legal representation if required.
The intent of these rules is to ensure that the spirit of the game is maintained, on and off the field.
23. Fines
With the exception of Rule 12.1.III, all non-compliance attracting a fine will be paid to Rugby Southland to offset
Rugby Southland Advisory Committee and Youth Rugby Council Costs.
18Appendix 1
Allowance from NZR to Rugby Southland to implement Duty Judicial Officer system
New Zealand Rugby permits Rugby Southland to use the Duty Judicial Officer system indefinitely in Club and
College Rugby competitions. This system (which is permitted in the NZR Disciplinary Rules under clause 18a)
will operate in the below manner which has been agreed by NZR and Rugby Southland.
Approved Amendments to the Disciplinary Rules (NZR Disciplinary Rules) to allow Rugby Southland to
operate a Duty Judicial Officer system:
Alternative Judicial Procedures – Provincial Union
Section 3, Part 1, clause 18(i) is amended as follows:
18(i) a Player Ordered Off is automatically suspended and not permitted to play any game of rugby for a
period of two games or three games if Ordered Off for Foul Play involving contact to the head from the date of
his or her Ordering Off;
Section 3, Part 1, clause 18(iv) is amended as follows:
18(iv) after having received copies of the reports of the Match Officials on the Ordering Off a nominated
member of the Union Judicial Panel or the Union Complaints Review Officer shall perform an assessment of
whether the three-week suspension of the Player is an appropriate sanction taking into account the
requirements of Rule 87 or whether the matter should proceed to a hearing before the Duty Judicial Officer. In
the event that the nominated member of the Judicial Panel or the Union Complaints Review Officer determines
that the three games suspension is not an appropriate sanction in the circumstances then that person should
refer the matter to a hearing before the Duty Judicial Officer;
Duty Judicial Officer
1. The PU will determine in consultation with the Chairperson of the PU Judicial Panel which, if any,
competitions or matches under the jurisdiction of the PU will incorporate a Duty Judicial Officer process into
the hearing and determination of allegations of on-field acts of Foul Play falling within the jurisdictional
provisions of Rule 11. For any competition or Match that a Duty Judicial Officer process is applicable to, the
provisions relating to the operation of that process will be as set in this variation to the rules.
2. In respect of any Match to which these provisions apply, the following disciplinary matters will be
referred to a Duty Judicial Officer:
(a) Where a Player is Ordered Off the playing enclosure during a Match;
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