Rugby League
What is rugby league?
Rugby League can be played as a full, semi, or non-contact game and in many formats, and boys and girls can play together. Team sizes can vary from 5 to 13-a-side on a pitch as small as 15m x 15m up to full size. All you need to play is a ball and a safe space! The sport aims to be diverse, inclusive and deliver positive social impact to participants by offering different ways to play.
The School Games formats encompass a variety of playing offers and are supported by resources to develop players, officials, leaders and teachers alike. Rugby League is built on teamwork and respect, lifelong skills that contribute to a young person’s holistic development.
Primary format
TryLeague Festivals focuses on developing core skills and game sense to prepare pupils for progression into game-based activity in secondary schools or community clubs.
Secondary formats
Touch RL, Tag RL and Rugby League 9s are modified versions of the traditional game played with fewer players, smaller pitches, and varying levels of contact.
Equipment needed
- Rugby ball
- Cones
- Bibs
- Safe space to play in (area dependent on format chosen; maximum needed 60m x 40m)
Get involved
The School Games is inclusive to all young people and provides opportunities for everyone to get involved, either within school, against other local schools, or at county or regional level.
School Games Organisers
School Games Organisers (SGO) help schools coordinate appropriate competitive opportunities for all young people from Key Stage 2-4, to recruit, train and deploy a suitable workforce, and to support the development of club.
Sign up to find your local SGOSchool Games formats
Learn more about the School Games formats suitable for rugby league competitions: