Cranbrook Rugby Club - Under 6s

Welcome to Cranbrook RFC U6s!

The U6s is our entry level group for girls and boys in Reception and Year 1. Everyone of all abilities is welcome to join and we focus on having fun and introducing foundational rugby skills. We follow the latest coaching guidance and curriculum recommended by the RFU with an emphasis on ball skills, running, footwork, communication, and most importantly being part of a team.

We average 40-50 children each week and have a fantastic mix of both female and male coaches. You can see some pics of us in action at the bottom of this page.

FAQs

When does the new season start?

The next season starts in September 2022 and runs through until late April / early May 2023. Please register your child asap!

When is training?

We train every Sunday from 09:45-10:45. Please arrive 5-10 mins early. Please check the tranining calendar in our team app for the latest updates.

Where is training?

We train at Cranbrook RFC (Tomlin Ground), Angley Road, Cranbrook, TN17 2PN. The U6s (generally) train right next to the clubhouse where there is a marquee and coffee for spectators. There’s also parking on-site.

What school year is U6s?

Your child can join in the fun if they are in Reception or Year 1. However, they must be aged over 4 (by DOB) before they can participate.

What does a typical training session involve?

We follow the RFU age grade guidelines emphasising the core values of rugby - Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship (TREDS). We focus on the basic foundational rugby skills including ball skills, running, footwork, communication, and most importantly being part of a team. We also use tag belts as well as other pieces of kit. The sessions are very informal and based around short fun games.

How do I register my child?

Please contact our Team Manager (Tanzi) at tanzi.crfc@gmail.com in advance who can register your child in the first instance. We offer the first few training sessions as a taster, so your child can see if they enjoy the sessions. After that paid club membership is required. Every child must be pre-registered before they can start.

How do I stay up to date with what's going on each week?

We use Stack Team App for all communication and social interaction with parents and guardians. Please make sure you register your child's attendance each week and check in for the latest news. Our Team Manager can send you the login details for our group.

What kit do they need?

Kit needs to be appropriate for the weather. In the warmer and drier months - shorts / t-shirt / jumpers / trainers are fine. Come winter we ask children are appropriately dressed for warmth and waterproofing. Hats / skins / waterproof gloves (not mittens) / fleeces / hoodies / thin coats / rugby boots will be needed. Multiple layers are better and offer more movement as well. Various high street sports retailers do great children’s ranges. There’s also a ‘boot box’ in the clubhouse where second-hand boots can be picked up.

Do I need official Cranbrook kit?

We find many children enjoy being branded up in club colours, but it’s completely optional at this age group There is an on-site and online club shop.

What about when it’s cold and wet?

We aim to train each week come rain or shine. Please make sure your child is appropriately dressed for the weather. The best sessions are often the muddiest!

My child is a bit nervous about joining – can you help?

Of course! Please let us know when you arrive, and we will do our best to make sure they have a great time and make some new friends.

Is there any contact involved?

No – there is no tackling or contact at this age level. You don’t need a gum shield or scrumcap (unless of course you want to provide one for your child).

Can I become a coach / helper?

Absolutely - yes please! All the coaching staff are volunteers and we welcome as much help as you can offer. Most of our coaches are parents / guardians who started off on the side-lines and have moved pitch side. If you would like to join in, please speak to one of the coaches and we will welcome you with open arms. The RFU has various online and in-person coaching courses that the club will help you take. You will also need to take a DBS check.

What is the connection with Cranbrook and Harlequins?

We are very proud that Cranbrook has recently become an affiliated club of Harlequins. We have regular club wide trips to The Stoop, have hosted Harlequins players at our Sunday training sessions, have Harlequins coaches training our Cranbrook coaches, plus Harlequins also run their own rugby camps at Cranbrook during the school holidays. Keep an eye on the CRFC social media channels for the latest details.