Mini Teams
The Hamilton Hornets run mini rugby programs for boys and girls from the ages of 5 to 12. No previous team sport or rugby specific experience is necessary. Everyone is welcome!
For players 13 - 18 years old see our Juniors page.
For players 19+ see our Seniors page.
Our minis programs are designed to introduce young players to the very basics of the sport in a safe environment by adjusting rules to fit the age group. Using flag rugby rule variations for younger divisions and gradually introducing the more physical aspects of rugby as players get older. Practices and games focus on running, passing, sportsmanship, teamwork and above all else, having fun!
Under 8 years old - Flag Rugby:
The U8 co-ed program is open to boys and girls from 5-7 years old. They compete in this division under the Niagara Rugby Union's Flag Rugby Rules.
Under 10 years old - Flag Rugby:
The U10 co-ed program is open to boys and girls from 8-10 years old. They compete in this division under the Niagara Rugby Union's Flag Rugby Rules.
Under 12 years old - Modified Contact Rugby:
The U12 co-ed program is open to boys and girls from 10-12 years old. This age group is the first introduction to contact rugby with modified rules to encourage safe play and a positive learning experience for all. They compete in this division under the Niagara Rugby Union's Junior Rugby Rules.
Practices:
Held at Mohawk Sports Park on Field #1. Tuesdays & Thursdays from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Rugby Games:
Usually held in a festival tournament format at various clubs in the surrounding area throughout the summer months. Typically, the season's schedule is communicated at the start of May. Regular season games start in late May and end in late August. Register now through this link.
Playing Equipment:
- Mouthguard – mandatory for training and games
- Cleats – rugby or soccer
- Jersey – club provided
- Club Shorts & Socks – club provided
As soon as available, practice and game schedules will be posted for each team on our Club Calendar Here.
If you wish to register as a player, get involved as a volunteer, sponsor a Minis team/player or just want to know more about the rugby programs we offer contact our Junior Development Officer Here.
Beginners Guide to Rugby
New to the game and interested in trying it out? You're never too young or too old to start. Rugby is a game for everyone!
Rugby's Safety Policies: Stay safe, have fun, enjoyable for all
Rugby is a physical, contact sport and as such has inherent dangers. The Hamilton Hornets Rugby Club as a member of Rugby Ontario is committed to reducing the risks of a serious injury through the implementation of World Rugby, Rugby Canada, and Rugby Ontario safety policies. By making yourself aware of these safety policies, you can play your part in making sure that our sport remains safe, fun and enjoyable for all!
Rugby Values Around the World
INTEGRITY
Integrity is central to the fabric of the game and is generated through honesty and fair play.
PASSION
Rugby people have a passionate enthusiasm for the game. Rugby generates excitement, emotional attachment and a sense of belonging to the global rugby family.
SOLIDARITY
Rugby provides a unifying spirit that leads to life-long friendships, camaraderie, teamwork and loyalty which transcends cultural, geographic, political and religious differences.
DISCIPLINE
Discipline is an integral part of the game both on and off the field and is reflected through adherence to the laws, the
regulations and rugby’s core values.
RESPECT
Respect for teammates, opponents, match officials and those involved in the game is paramount.
CODE OF CONDUCT
Game Play:
The purpose of the Hamilton Hornets Rugby Club's Code of Conduct is to detail a set of guidelines for expected behaviour which all members of the Hamilton Hornets Rugby Club are to observe. The Hamilton Hornets Rugby Football Club subscribes to the Code of Conduct as detailed in Rugby Ontario’s Disciple Regulations. All Hamilton Hornets members and associates:
- must ensure that the Game is played and conducted in accordance with the principles of disciplined and sporting behaviour and in a safe and proper environment and must acknowledge that it is not sufficient to rely solely upon the Match Officials to maintain those principles or environment
- shall cooperate in ensuring that the Laws of the Game are upheld
- shall accept and observe the authority of all Match Officials
- shall not engage in any conduct or activity on or off the field of play that may impair public confidence or that may bring the reputation of the Game into disrepute
- shall actively promote and protect the reputation of the game
- shall not abuse, threaten or intimidate any teammate/clubmate, match official, spectator, organizer, or player, whether on or off the field of play
Clubhouse:
Furthermore, the additional guidelines detailed below are expected of all club members and associates off the field. All Hamilton Hornets members and associates:
- shall respect club members’ human rights and liberties
- shall be courteous and hospitable to all visitors
- maintain the clubhouse, washrooms, kitchen, and storage shed in good order
- shall contribute to the weekly cleaning activities of the clubhouse and team kits
- shall not wear cleats or other dirty footwear inside the club
- shall not participate in any illegal or illicit behaviour on club property, sponsors' property, or while in club colours
Practice Nights:
Lastly, the following guidelines detailed below are expected of all Hamilton Hornet players on practice nights. All Hamilton Hornets players:
- shall respect the coaches
- shall be punctual for all practices and matches
- shall complete training exercises to the best of your ability
- shall take initiative and assist in the preparation and clean up of practice equipment