Age Grade Law Variations (AGLVs)

Rugby is a game for everyone; all ages, levels of experience and body types. Children can prosper through rugby in an environment where having fun, learning and building confidence are prioritised.

It is the responsibility of all adults in the game to create an environment that is player-centred, development-driven and competition-supported. This applies to coaches, parents, teachers, volunteers and supporters.

The Age Grade Law Variations (AGLVs) are in place to ensure an enjoyable and inclusive game for players in across the micro, mini, boys (U13-U15) and girls (U12-U16) youth games.

The AGLVs provide game play environments that allow players to learn the skills of Rugby Union in a progressive manner, eventually building towards the 15-a-side game, whilst allowing the flexibility

Videos and further information on the AGLVs can be found on Scottish Rugby’s new digital learning platform – Gainline. This can be accessed through your SCRUMs account

The following document details reminders and updates for the youth game in season 24/25: S&Y Key Messages

Click on the drop downs below for detailed documents about the AGLVs for each specific age group:

The only change to season 24/25 AGLV’s for season 25/26 is the removal of the mark from restart as mentioned in Rugby Right. 

Tackle Height Law Trials for the Age Grade Game

2023/24 saw the introduction of the new Tackle Height Law Trials in Scotland. The AGLVs have always promoted a low tackle, with U9-U14 having a ‘waist and below’ tackle height. Some amendments have been made to the tackle laws to ensure consistency with trials laws. Please see the below PDF for further details:

AGLV Tackle Height

The diagrams below show the amended tackle heights for the Age Grade Game

Key Principles

A key principle behind the new AGLVs is to provide a playing format with building blocks up to the 15-a-side game, aligning to the Blueprint ‘The Scottish Way’. The laws allow players time to get to grips with the basics of running, evading, catching and passing the ball before tackling and contact skills are gradually introduced, with the aim of having a positive impact on player safety.

2023/24 will see a continual review of the current AGLVs. During this period Scottish Rugby will continue to undertake a match analysis project to determine the impact of each set of laws in comparison with the previous set of AGLVs, as well as asking coaches, referees and players for their feedback.