Why Choose Rugby Union for Your Child
Teamwork, fitness, confidence, and lifelong friendships — rugby union gives children more than just a game.
The Benefits of Rugby Union
Rugby union develops the whole child — physically, mentally, and socially.
Teamwork & Social Skills
Rugby is the ultimate team sport. Every position matters, and success depends on working together. Children learn communication, cooperation, and how to support their mates — skills that carry into school and life.
Physical Fitness
Rugby builds overall fitness — running, agility, strength, and coordination. Unlike sports that favour one body type, rugby has a position for every shape and size. Your child stays active and healthy.
Discipline & Resilience
Rugby teaches children to keep going when things get tough, to respect the referee, and to shake hands with the opposition. These lessons in discipline and sportsmanship build character.
Confidence & Self-Esteem
Mastering a new skill, making a tackle, scoring a try — rugby is full of moments that build confidence. Children learn to believe in themselves and push past their comfort zone.
Respect & Values
Rugby's core values — teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline, sportsmanship — are taught from day one. Children learn to respect opponents, referees, and the game itself.
Lifelong Friendships
The bonds formed in rugby are unique. Training together, playing together, winning and losing together — children build friendships that last well beyond the season.
Rugby Union vs Rugby League
Both are great sports. Here are the key differences to help you decide.
| Aspect | Rugby Union | Rugby League |
|---|---|---|
| Players per side | 15 (modified for juniors) | 13 |
| Tackle limit | No limit — play continues via rucks and mauls | 6 tackles then handover |
| Set pieces | Scrums, lineouts, rucks, mauls | Scrums (simplified) |
| Positions | 8 forwards + 7 backs (more variety) | 6 forwards + 7 backs |
| Kicking | Strategic kicking throughout play | Primarily on last tackle |
| Junior pathway | Club → representative → state → national | Club → representative → state |
Safety in Junior Rugby
Junior rugby union is designed to be safe. Rules are modified by age group so children learn progressively.
- Under 5-7s play non-contact or limited-contact rugby on smaller fields
- Rules are progressively introduced as children grow — tackling, rucks, and scrums come gradually
- All junior teams play with modified rules set by Rugby Australia for each age group
- Coaches must hold current accreditations and Blue Cards
- Qualified first aiders present at every training session and game
- Mouthguards are mandatory for all players
- Concussion protocols follow Rugby Australia guidelines
How to Get Started
Getting into rugby union is easy. At Springfield Lakes Hawks, your child can try a session before committing.
1
Come and Try
Turn up to any Tuesday or Thursday training. Juniors at 5:30 PM at Silver Jubilee Park, Spring Mountain.
2
Register Online
Sign up through Rugby Xplorer. Fee includes jersey, shorts, insurance, and all training sessions.
3
Join the Team
Get your gear, meet your coaches, and start your rugby journey with the Hawks.
Serving Families Across South-West Brisbane
We welcome players from across the region. Find out how easy it is to get to Hawks from your suburb.
Give Your Child the Rugby Experience
Springfield Lakes Hawks welcomes players of all ages and abilities. Come see why families across south-west Brisbane choose Hawks.