Turn Up & Play
Turn Up & Play is a movement from Scottish Rugby to help more young people get active, build confidence and enjoy rugby – through local clubs, schools and community opportunities across Scotland.
You don’t need experience.
You don’t need special kit.
You don’t need to know the rules.
Whether it’s your very first time or you’ve played before and want to get back into it, Turn Up & Play is about making it easy to show up, join in, have fun and feel part of something.
Across Scotland, rugby clubs and schools are opening their doors to young people aged 8–14, creating relaxed and welcoming spaces where rugby is about fun, friendship and feeling good about being active. It’s a chance to move more, try something new, meet friends and build confidence – all at your own pace.
There’s no pressure to be good, no trials to impress at and no expectations to live up to. Just turn up, get involved and enjoy it.
Play at your local club
Local rugby clubs are at the heart of Turn Up & Play.
From towns to cities and everywhere in between, clubs across the country offer mini and youth rugby sessions designed to help young people enjoy the game in a safe, friendly and welcoming environment. Sessions are led by trained coaches and focus on games, activity and enjoyment – supporting young people to stay active, have fun with friends and feel confident trying rugby for the first time.
Mini rugby (for younger age groups) and youth rugby (as players get older) are a great way to build skills gradually, grow in confidence and feel part of a local team and community.
Reach out to your local club for more information, or contact us at: [email protected]
What about schools?
Turn Up & Play also happens in and through schools, helping pupils enjoy rugby as part of school life while staying active and connected with others.
This might be through fun PE-based sessions, schools festivals and competitions, school activities linked to local mini and youth rugby clubs, or opportunities to play and build confidence alongside classmates.
If you are unsure what rugby activity happens at your school, speak to your PE teacher about opportunities at your school.
Events: another way to get involved
In some areas, Turn Up & Play events bring young people together from schools and clubs for high‑energy, social days focused on fun, teamwork and confidence‑building.
Events are open to beginners and those who have played before and are designed to be welcoming, active and inclusive. Most events are for girls and boys together, with some girls‑only Turn Up & Play opportunities available in certain areas.
Keep your eyes on our social media for details of upcoming events!
Events are just one way to get involved – many young people start simply by joining mini or youth rugby at their local club.
Who’s it for?
Turn Up & Play is for young people aged 8–14, from primary through to early secondary school. It’s for anyone who wants to play with friends, meet new people, be more active and enjoy rugby in a relaxed, supportive environment.
You don’t have to feel confident yet.
You don’t have to have played before.
Confidence comes from doing – and enjoying it together.
Take your first step
Whether you’re looking to join mini or youth rugby at a local club, take part through school, or come along to a Turn Up & Play event, getting started is simple. Enter your postcode below to find opportunities near you!
