Wellington Rugby Football Union (Inc.) BY-LAWS

Transcription

1 Wellington Rugby Football Union (Inc.) BY-LAWS Effective February 2017

2 SECTION A PRELIMINARY BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE OF BY-LAWS DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION... 7 SECTION B WRFU CLUB COMPETITION RULES, GRADES AND ENTRY CONDUCT OF MATCHES DEFAULTS STANDINGS TROPHIES SECTION C ELIGIBILITY PLAYER ELIGIBILITY AMATEUR STATUS OTHER DISQUALIFIED PERSONS SECTION D BREACHES, PENALTIES, DISPUTES AND APPEALS PROVISIONS RELATING TO BREACHES OF THESE BY-LAWS COMPLAINTS OR DISPUTES BETWEEN CLUBS DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES APPEALS SECTION E OTHER MEMBERS GENERAL MEETINGS AND INFORMATION MATCHES WHICH ARE NOT WRFU CC MATCHES SCHEDULE 1 WRFU FORMS SCHEDULE 2 - TIME PERIODS SCHEDULE 3 WRFU TROPHIES SCHEDULE 4 - PENALTIES FOR BREACHES OF BY-LAWS... 52

3 SECTION A PRELIMINARY 1. Background and Purpose of By-Laws Wellington Rugby Football Union (WRFU) 1.1 WRFU is an incorporated society established to foster, encourage and control the game of rugby within the Wellington Rugby Province. The members of WRFU are its member Clubs, Wellington Rugby Referees Association (WRRA), Wellington Secondary Schools Rugby Union (WSSRU) and Junior Rugby Advisory Board (JRAB). Where does WRFU fit in the Rugby Hierarchy? 1.2 WRFU is part of the rugby hierarchy which includes the following levels: World Rugby (WR), national unions (New Zealand Rugby Union (NZR)), provincial unions, Clubs and individual participants. WRFU is a member of the NZRU which in turn is a member of WR. 1.3 To ensure overall consistency, each level of the rugby hierarchy is required to follow the rules required by the body which is immediately above it. Rugby participants in Wellington must therefore follow the rules of their Club, Schools Union or Referees association. The WRFU then requires those bodies and their members to follow its rules and so on. Who has Responsibility for Club, School and Junior Rugby? 1.4 WRFU is governed by a Board of Directors which has overall responsibility for development and management of rugby in Wellington. WRFU also has a Rugby Board (in effect a council of delegates of WRFU members and some others) to which the Board of Directors have delegated all matters relating: a. to the playing and development of Club, school and junior rugby; and b. all representative rugby below representative B level. 1.5 In turn, the Rugby Board has delegated to: WSSRU: responsibility for the secondary school s competition and all other matters relating to it except for disciplinary procedures which are dealt with by the WRFU Disciplinary Committee (see By-Law 13); The JRAB Sub-Committee: responsibility for all aspects of junior rugby competitions, including club, primary school, primary school zone representative rugby and all other matters relating to it except for an appeal on a disciplinary matter (see By-law 13); WRRA: responsibility for club, school and junior rugby Refereeing. The bodies recorded above have adopted their own rules relating to their areas of responsibility. Page 3

4 What are By-Laws? 1.6 These By-Laws are the specific rules developed by the Rugby Board (and approved by the Board of Directors) to deal with operational and day to day matters primarily relating to Clubs and Club rugby, but also dealing with aspects of representative, school, junior and other rugby. What about Representative Rugby? 1.7 These By-Laws apply to all representative matches held within the WRFU boundaries where NZRU does not have jurisdiction (e.g. NZRU has jurisdiction for Provincial Senior "A" Rugby) but: a. Each By-Law only applies to the extent that it is relevant (as determined by WRFU at any time); and b. if a By-Law is relevant then it is deemed to be read with appropriate changes so that the specific By-Law is appropriately applied to a representative rugby situation; and c. WR s "The Laws of the Game of Rugby Union" apply except as otherwise required by the NZRU Domestic Safety Laws. Who do these By-Laws apply to? These By-Laws apply to all WRFU Members and to their respective members and anyone who participates in competitions, teams or activities organised, recognised or sanctioned by WRFU. Where do I look to obtain information about rugby By-Laws and processes? 1.8 WRFU: Constitution By-Laws (including competition rules, WRFU time periods, WRFU forms) Handbook (an annual publication of useful information) Club Rugby Sub Committee Policies and Procedures WRFU website and also individual Club websites. WRRA Rules and website WSSRU Handbook website WRFU Code of Conduct JRAB Convenors Manual WRFU Junior Rugby By-Laws Page 4

5 1.9 New Zealand Rugby: NZR Domestic Competitions Manual NZR Domestic Safety Laws Small Blacks Development Model Laws NZR Black Book (Rules for Disciplinary Procedures) Website World Rugby: The Laws of the Game of Rugby Union Regulations - Website Purpose of By-Laws: Practical Rules, Forms and Time Periods 1.11 The overall intent of these By-Laws is to provide practical rules, forms and time periods to facilitate the effective rugby operations of WRFU with and among its Members and all participants to foster safe, fair and enjoyable rugby experiences for all participants. To support this overall intent Members and all participants are required to adhere to the By-Laws with the spirit of the game in mind. Members and all participants are expected to display honesty and integrity at all times in promoting the true values of the amateur game To enable the rules, forms and time periods to operate efficiently, it is necessary for WRFU, Clubs, schools, and other persons involved in the game in Wellington to be familiar with the By-Laws including what the By-Laws require of them and how, to whom and at what times they are required to communicate with each other. Who has a role in these By-Laws? 1.13 The bodies or persons that have a role in the operation of the By-Laws primarily includes but is not limited to: Board of Directors approves any changes to By-Laws meets regularly. Rugby Board responsible for Club, School and Junior Rugby - meets regularly. Club Rugby Subcommittee of Rugby Board (CRSC) meets regularly and as required to deal with all Senior Club rugby issues on behalf of the Rugby Board. Page 5

6 Premier Status Eligibility Committee (PSEC) consists of the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the Rugby Board, the Chairperson of the CRSC, and the Community Rugby Manager. WRFU Executive operates through various WRFU staff and volunteers under the control of the Chief Executive including: WRFU Club Rugby Administrator (CRA) - the primary contact for Senior Club Rugby whose role includes, in conjunction with CRSC to formulate match draws and venues, to liaise with WRRA for Referees appointments, to assist the CRSC and to co-ordinate the operation of judicial and disciplinary matters; WRFU Junior & Representative Rugby Administrator - the primary contact for the administration of WRFU Junior rugby and all WRFU amateur representative rugby; WRFU Community Rugby Manager (CRM) the Manager of WRFU Club, School, and Amateur Representative rugby; WRFU Club Development Officer the person responsible for Club governance, and Club development; Club Officials Club Captain, Secretary, Chairman. WRRA Executive Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and Delegate. JRAB Chairperson, 3 elected club members, 4 appointed members including schools representative and WRFU JRA. WSSRU Chairman, Secretary. WRFU Disciplinary Committee - Chairperson. WRFU Appeal Committee Chairperson. How do these persons communicate with each other in respect of these By-Laws? 1.14 All persons who have a role in these By-laws are urged (in addition to complying with any specific By- Law process) to meet with, or to use the telephone in dealing with, other persons as those are often the most immediate and personable ways of commencing and progressing the various requirements of the By-laws. Where any WRFU form, notice or other written information is required by the By-Laws, then it must be communicated to the WRFU CRA, or as otherwise required by these By-Laws Where the WRFU, WRFU executive, Rugby Board, Board of Directors or any of their respective subcommittees or personnel is required by these By-Laws to communicate any information, then it shall be by such communication methods as determined by WRFU. Page 6

7 1.16 Where a Club or other Member is required by these By-Laws to communicate any WRFU form, notice or other written information to another Club or to the WRFU or to any other party, then it shall be undertaken by such communication methods as required by these By-Laws and in the absence of such requirement, then as may be required by the WRFU. Who Acts on Behalf of WRFU? 1.17 The WRFU may act in respect of these By-Laws through the WRFU executive and/or through the Board of Directors and/or the Rugby Board and their respective subcommittees as it so determines. A requirement of any of them is binding on Members (subject to any applicable appeal process). 2. Definitions and Interpretation 2.1 Club means any rugby club that is a Member of the WRFU. 2.2 "Disciplinary Committee" means the Disciplinary Committee of WRFU. 2.3 Junior Club Rugby means all rugby played at the Under 13 level and below. 2.4 Match includes all WRFU CC Matches, and all non-wrfu CC Matches which occur within WRFU boundaries and which involve a Club or a WRFU representative team. 2.5 "Member" means a member of WRFU. 2.6 Overseas Player see By-Law Premier Status Club means a Club that has been granted Premier Status by the PSEC for that WRFU season. 2.8 "Referee" includes a substitute Referee. 2.9 Senior Club Rugby means all rugby played at the Under 19 level and above "WR", "NZRU", WRFU, "WSSRU", "JRAB", "WRRA", "CRSC", CRA, CRM, "CDO" and PSEC are abbreviations for the full name of each such body or person set out in By-Law WRFU CC Match means a match which is part of a WRFU Club Competition "WRFU Season" means the period commencing on 1 October of each year and expiring on 30 September of the following year Additional abbreviations or definitions also appear in these By-Laws including: a. WRFU CC which means WRFU Club Competition (By-Law 3.1). b. Financial Reward (By-Law 9). c. Levels (By-Law 8.11) Page 7

8 d. Grade Hierarchy (By-Law 8.11) Unless a contrary intention is recorded, all words and expressions used in these By-Laws have the same meanings given to them (if any) in the WRFU Constitution Any difference of opinion as to the meaning of these By-Laws shall be decided by the Rugby Board which shall notify all Clubs (and others as deemed appropriate by the Rugby Board) of the decision. The decision shall be recorded in the Minutes of a Rugby Board meeting and (subject to the right of appeal) shall be the true meaning unless otherwise determined by the Rugby Board Where examples are given or where the words including are used, this is to assist interpretation, and the examples and/or circumstances are not limited to the examples and/or circumstances recorded. Page 8

9 SECTION B WRFU CLUB COMPETITION 3. Rules, Grades and Entry 3.1 WRFU organises, controls and is responsible for all aspects of WRFU Club Competition (WRFU CC) and any other WRFU tournaments, competitions or matches for which it takes responsibility. Its role includes but is not limited to: a. Establishing and applying the Rules (including those for disputes, penalties and disciplinary procedures); b. Providing administration and other resources as it determines; c. Deciding eligibility to participate; d. Keeping Members and others informed. 3.2 Matches in all Grades are played under WR s "The Laws of The Game of Rugby Union" as varied by the NZRU Domestic Safety Laws and with the following additional changes: a. Scrums are always non-competitive in the Presidents Grade; b. Scrums may be uncontested in Colts B (Division Two), should a team not have the required front row players c. The number and qualification of players and replacements is set out in By-Law By 30 November each year, the WRFU shall notify all Clubs of the WRFU CC Rules for the next season. 3.4 A Club cannot have more than one team in the Premier Grade (Swindale Shield, Jubilee Cup, Hardham Cup) or Premier Reserve Grade (Harper Lock Shield, Ed Chaney Cup), unless so determined by the Rugby Board. 3.5 WRFU may divide any grade and/or any division into sections and may (subject to By-Law 3.4) determine the composition of the number of teams within any grade, division and section. 3.6 A Club may participate in the WRFU CC in accordance with these By-Laws, and must ensure that its members are aware of and comply with these By-Laws. 3.7 Each year a Club must forward to the WRFU a WRFU Grade Entry Form (WRFU Form 1) covering the grades in which it seeks to enter teams and this must be done at least 7 days before the start of the WRFU Season. The CRSC has full discretion as to whether it will accept late entries, and will work with Clubs in order to maximise the teams involved in WRFU CC. Page 9

10 Club Playing Colours 3.8 The playing colours of each Club must be registered with WRFU and any changes to these must be approved by the Rugby Board before use. New Clubs must have their proposed playing colours approved by the Rugby Board. Team Names (Sponsorship) 3.9 A Club may, with the prior approval of the WRFU Executive, include the name of one sponsor in the title used for one or more of that Club s teams. A sponsor s name must follow the name of the Club. For the avoidance of doubt, a Club may have different sponsors for different teams within the Club. Other Matches 3.10 For sevens and ten-a-aside Matches, and additional information about Matches that are not WRFU CC Matches, see By-Law 16. Eligibility for Premier Status 3.11 To be eligible to play in Premier or Premier Reserve grade, Clubs must meet the criteria as set out by the PSEC Memorandum of Understanding (WRFU FORM 9) as determined by the PSEC. Clubs must meet the Criteria for the entire WRFU season. This will be provisionally assessed by the PSEC If the PSEC provisionally assesses that a Club does not meet the criteria it must notify the Club of that assessment. If within 7 days of being notified of that provisional assessment, the Club notifies WRFU in writing that it disputes the provisional assessment, the PSEC will conduct a hearing to hear the Club on this matter. The Club in question will be invited to attend and make submissions and the PSEC may involve other persons or Clubs as it sees fit. The PSEC will then determine the eligibility of Clubs for Premier Status. The final decision can be appealed as if it were a decision of the Rugby Board, see By- Laws 14.1(c) and If the PSEC provisionally assesses that a Club has failed or may have failed to adhere to the Premier Status Eligibility Criteria, the PSEC will notify the Club and conduct a hearing to determine the matter and any penalty in accordance with By-Law The Club in question will be invited to attend and make submissions, and the PSEC may involve other persons or Clubs as it sees fit The PSEC shall determine its own rules and processes. 4. Conduct of Matches 4.1 WRFU sets and must issue the draw for WRFU CC Matches. Page 10

11 Referees 4.2 The WRRA appoints Referees under the jurisdiction of the WRFU. The WRRA shall notify Clubs of such Referee appointments. Where the Referee does not report to fulfil his or her appointment, or there has been no appointment of a Referee for that Match,, the respective team captains must endeavour to agree upon a substitute Referee who must have completed an Associate Referee and Rugby Smart course. If the respective team captains fail to agree, the home team appoints a Referee who must have completed an Associate Referee and Rugby Smart course. If the appointed Referee arrives he or she shall replace the substitute Referee. If the Referee is unable to complete the Match the Referee s replacement is appointed according to the instructions of the CRA. If the Match organiser has given no instructions, the Referee appoints a replacement who must have completed an Associate Referee and Rugby Smart course. If the Referee cannot do so, the home team appoints a replacement who must have completed an Associate Referee and Rugby Smart course. If no qualified Referee is available, then By-Law 4.3 applies. All relevant information relating to any situation covered by By-Law 4.2 must be notified to the WRFU Club Rugby Administrator within 48 hours. In accordance with NZR National Rugby Policy 2 (RugbySmart Safety Course for Referees and Coaches) a referee who has not completed the RugbySmart course in a calendar year must not be appointed to any WRFU CC Match in that same year. Match Not Played 4.3 If a WRFU CC Match is not played because there was no Referee or for any other reason (other than a default for the consequences of which see By-Law 5) or to the extent provided by By-Law 4.11, both teams may be given the option to play that match at an agreed date and time, with home ground advantage being as per the original draw where possible, but the WRFU will have final say on the venue. If the teams are given the option to play, that match must be played before the end of the round or the commencement of semi-finals or finals. Should the teams not be given the option to play, or be unable to agree on a date and time for that match, then both teams will be allocated three WRFU CC points for that match and no other points are awarded to either team. Number and Qualification of Players and Replacements 4.4 The number and qualification of players and replacements for a Matches is as set out in WR s "The Laws of the Game of Rugby Union" except as varied by the NZR Domestic Safety Laws and/or by the following WRFU requirements: a. The minimum numbers of players and front row players to start a Match is as follows: Page 11

12 Minimum Players Grade To Start the Match Premier 18 The Number of Players Named in the Team Determines The Required Number of Front Row Players 18,19,20,21, or 22 FIVE Premier Reserve First Grade Women's THREE 21 FOUR 22 FIVE Colts A Colts B 15 Under 85kg 15 Reserve THREE* 21 FOUR* 22 FIVE* *Should a team not fulfil the front row player requirements in Colts B grade only, but have 15 players, the team is not forced to default the match, but the Match can be played with uncontested scrums. At no stage should the Match revert to contested scrums THREE FOUR FIVE THREE FOUR FIVE Presidents 12 No Front Row Requirements as Scrums Are Uncontested b. The persons who are nominated as the suitably trained and experienced players to play in front row positions must be designated as such on the WRFU Team Card (WRFU Form 2). A failure to do so is dealt with in By-Law 4.8. c. If either team contesting a Match that is not a WRFU CC Match does not have the minimum required numbers to start the Match, the Match may be played with less than the minimum, provided both teams and the appointed Referee agree to do so. d. If either team contesting a Match that is not a WRFU CC Match does not have the required number front row players, the Match may be played with uncontested scrums provided both teams and the appointed Referee agree to do so. At no stage should the Match revert to contested scrums. e. Subject to 4.4(c) and 4.4(d) a failure to comply with By-Law 4.4 means the Match cannot start and By-Law 4.5 applies. Page 12

13 Commencement Times 4.5 A WRFU CC Match must commence at the start time allocated by WRFU for that match. A WRFU CC Match may not proceed where one or both teams do not meet the requirements as set out in By-Law 4.4. If play has not commenced within twenty minutes of the allocated start time because one or more teams is in breach of By-Law 4.4 the Referee must declare the team(s) which is unable or unwilling to proceed to have lost by default. After this time, a friendly Match (i.e. not a WRFU CC Match) may proceed if both teams and the appointed referee agree. 4.6 All teams must play in the playing colours as approved by Rugby Board for that Club. Approval may also be given by WRFU for a Club team (e.g. a Presidents Grade team) to play in a variation of the Club playing colours but only on application by that Club. The Referee may order from the field of play any player not conforming with this By-Law unless a player or team has a dispensation from WRFU, in which case the WRFU when issuing the dispensation must send a copy to the WRRA. Provision of Ball 4.7 In every WRFU CC Match each of the teams must provide a ball. WRFU may regulate the type and/or brand of ball. WRFU Team Card (WRFU Form 2) 4.8 Before the commencement of every WRFU CC Match (except President s grade) the captain of each team must supply the Referee with a properly completed (including front row designated players see By-Law 4.4 b.) WRFU Team Card (WRFU Form 2). The Referee must not start the game until this has been done. If a team does not comply, the offending team defaults the match and shall be allocated no WRFU CC points while the non-offending team is awarded 5 WRFU CC points. Subject to By-Law 5.2, no points for or against are allocated. If both teams fail to comply, each team shall record a loss and shall be allocated no WRFU CC points. 4.9 Referees are required to insert in the WRFU Team Card the result of the match in which they officiate and the identity of players who are subject to report. The Referee must then sign it. It is the responsibility of the Club to forward the WRFU Team Card to WRFU within 48 hours of the Match. Penalties apply for failure to comply with this by-law as set out in Schedule 4 (except for President s grade). In the case of a substitute Referee the respective teams must ensure compliance with By- Laws 4.8 and 4.9. Page 13

14 WRFU Result Submissions 4.10 Clubs must submit to the WRFU all WRFU CC Match results (and for Premier Grade matches the names of all points scorers) for all grades within 45 minutes of the completion of the match. Penalties apply as set out in Schedule 4. (a) If the result submitted contains an error or omission the Club which has submitted the incorrect WRFU CC Match result/s has until 5pm on the following Friday to rectify the error or omission by notifying the WRFU in writing of the error or omission and submitting an amended Match result. Failure to comply with this time restriction will mean that a Club's error or omission might or might not be rectified. If the WRFU makes an error or omission in recording a Match, the WRFU will rectify the error or omission to the extent that it can practically do so bearing in mind all the circumstances at the time that the WRFU becomes aware of it's error or omission. Abandonment of Games 4.11 In consultation with the CRA (if reasonably practicable to do so), the Referee may abandon a Match if the Referee decides the ground or weather conditions are unfit for play or for any other safety reason (including as a consequence of a serious injury being sustained). If the abandonment for such reason occurs before commencement of the second half, then it will be covered by By-Law 4.3. If it occurs after that time, the score at such time is the final score of the Match. For a Match called off for bad conduct see By-law WRFU Safety Regulations 4.12 Members must comply with the WRFU Club Rugby Sub-Committee Policies and Procedures and in the case of a serious injury in any Match must complete and forward to the WRFU a NZR Serious Injury Form (WRFU Form 8). A serious injury is categorized as: Any concussion or suspected concussion Hospitalisation An injury that is likely to keep a participant out of the game for six or more weeks Mandatory Coaching Accreditation 4.13 In accordance with NZR National Rugby Policy 2 (RugbySmart Safety Course for Referees and Coaches) all coaches and referees of U14 level rugby and above, including assistant coaches, position specific coaches and technical assistants must attend a RugbySmart coaching course prior to the commencement of their team s first competition Matches in that year.. Failure to attend the course will see the person stood down from all coaching activity until they have completed the course. Page 14

15 The coach s team will also be withdrawn from WRFU CC or school or representative competition if any of its coaches fail to attend RugbySmart prior to the WRFU CC or school or representative competition commencing, until such time as the requirement has been fulfilled. 5. Defaults 5.1 Premier Status Clubs must not default a WRFU CC Match in the following grades: Premier; Premier Reserve; Colts (this only applies to a Club s top colts team). a. Should breach of this By-Law 5.1 occur in the first round of WRFU CC, the PSEC: i. must deem the breaching Club s Premier side ineligible to play in the Jubilee Cup; and ii. iii. iv. must remove two WRFU CC points from the team in default, but if that team has already defaulted a WRFU CC Match in that WRFU Season, must remove a total of five WRFU CC points from that team; and must remove two WRFU CC points from the breaching Club's Premier team (unless the Premier team was the defaulting team); and may remove the Premier Status of the offending Club. b. Should breach of this by-law 5.1 occur in the second round of WRFU CC, the PSEC: i. must remove two WRFU CC points from the team in default, but if that team has already defaulted a WRFU CC Match in that WRFU Season, must remove a total of five WRFU CC points from that team; and ii. iii. iv. must remove two WRFU CC points from the breaching Club's Premier team (unless the Premier team was the defaulting team); and may deem the breaching Club s Premier team ineligible for play-offs; and may remove the Premier Status of the offending Club. c. Should a Premier Status Club default in a Premier grade WRFU CC Match, the Club will not be eligible for Premier Status in the following WRFU Season, and each of that Club s Premier Reserve team and top Colts team will lose two WRFU CC points. If the Rugby Board (acting through and by the PSEC) determines that there are special circumstances that partly or fully excuse the default, the penalty may be reduced or waived. 5.2 If a team (including a team which is dealt with under By-law 5.1) loses a WRFU CC Match by default, (and default includes but is not limited to the failure by a team to comply with By-Laws 4.4 or 4.5) a win and five WRFU CC points are recorded to its opponents. The defaulting team receives no WRFU Page 15

16 CC points. No points for and against for the match are allocated except in the tie breaker situations referred to in By-Law Any Club unable to keep its team engagement in any WRFU CC Match (including a team referred to in By-law 5.1) must notify the CRA and the Club Captain of the Club against which it is drawn to play and in all cases must do so no later than 12.00pm (noon) on the day prior to the match to avoid unnecessary expense and inconvenience. Failure to do so results in the loss of two WRFU CC points for the first occasion and five WRFU CC points for every other occasion in a WRFU Season. Failure to notify of a default at all (i.e. a no-show) will result in the loss of five WRFU CC points for the first occasion and subsuqent occasions in a WRFU season. If the Rugby Board (acting through and by the PSEC in relation to a default by a Premier Status Club s Premier, Premier Reserve or Colts team, or acting through and by the CRSC for all other defaults) determine that there are special circumstances that partly or fully excuse the default, the penalty may be reduced or waived. 5.4 Should any team default two WRFU CC Matches in succession, or three at intervals during a WRFU Season, it is deemed to have withdrawn from the grade in which it is entered unless the Rugby Board (acting through and by the CRSC, or through and by the PSEC if the default is by a Premier Status Club s Premier, Premier Reserve or Colts team) determines otherwise, and any WRFU CC Matches it may have played shall not be counted in that WRFU CC round. 5.5 A Club's team may incur penalties under each of By-laws 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4 (as may be applicable) for any one match default. 5.6 Should a team apply to the PSEC or the CRSC (as appropriate) for reduction or waiver of a penalty under By-Law 5.1 and/or 5.3, the PSEC or the CRSC will hold a hearing to determine the matter. All Clubs with a team in that same grade should (if approprate) be invited to attend and/or make written submissions. The PSEC and the CRSC shall otherwise determine their own rules and processes. 5.7 See also By-laws 11.6 and Standings WRFU Club Competition Points (WRFU CC points) 6.1 WRFU CC points shall be awarded in all WRFU CC Matches on the basis of four WRFU CC points for a win, two for a draw, one for the losing team within seven points or less of the opponents score, and one WRFU CC bonus point for a team that scores four or more tries. Page 16

17 6.2 Subject to By-Laws 6.6 and 6.7, the team scoring the greatest number of WRFU CC points shall be deemed to be the winner of the grade or grade division unless play-offs are played. 6.3 For the purposes of determining points for and points against in this By-Law, if a team has been defaulted against in the relevant round of WRFU CC, that team will be awarded an average points for, and points against tally for the defaulted WRFU CC Match. This average will be calculated using the average points scored against, and conceded to, the defaulting team by all other teams in the same round of WRFU CC. Determination of Winners in Semi-Finals 6.4 If, at full-time in a semi-final two teams are tied, two ten minute spells will be played. Teams will initially play in the same direction as they did in the first half of regulation time, with the same team kicking off first. Teams will swap for the second half with a one-minute half time break. There will be no "golden point". If the scores are still tied at the conclusion of extra time the result will be determined as follows: a. The team scoring the most tries in the match shall proceed to the final, but if these are equal; b. The team with the better head to head record (i.e. wins/draws/losses between the two teams) in the second round of the WRFU CC shall proceed to the final, but if this head to head record is even (including where the teams didn t play each other, they only played each other once and drew, they played each other twice and won one match each, or played each other twice and drew both matches); c. The team with the higher differential between points scored for and points scored against in the second round of the WRFU CC (and in respect of defaults By-Law 6.3 shall apply) shall proceed to the final, but if this is equal; d. The finalist shall be determined by the toss of a coin conducted by a WRFU Official. Determination of Winners in Finals 6.5 If, at full-time in a final two teams are tied, two ten minute spells will be played. Teams will initially play in the same direction as they did in the first half of regulation time, with the same team kicking off first. Teams will swap for the second half with a one minute half time break. If scores are still tied at the end of this period one ten minute period of golden point (first to score any points wins) extra time will be played, with teams having a coin toss to determine who kicks off and in what direction they play. If no golden points are scored the winner shall be determined by; a. The team scoring the most tries in the final (including extra time); but if this is equal Page 17

18 b. The team with the best point differential through the current WRFU CC round, that being the difference between the amount of points scored and points conceded in that WRFU CC round, (and in respect of defaults By-Law 6.3 shall apply) is the winner, but if this is equal; c. Shared Title Two Teams Tied on WRFU CC Points 6.6 In the event that two teams are tied on WRFU CC points then: a. The team that has the best head to head record (i.e. wins/draws/losses between the teams) in that WRFU CC round shall have the higher position; b. If the two teams have the same head to head record in that WRFU CC round (including where the teams didn t play each other, they only played each other once and drew, they played each other twice and won one match each, or played each other twice and drew both matches) the team with the higher aggregate points differential in that WRFU CC round (and in respect of defaults By-Law 6.3 shall apply) shall have the higher position; c. If the two teams have the same aggregate points differential in that WRFU CC round, the team which has scored the most points (and in respect of defaults By-Law 6.3 shall apply) shall have the higher position; d. If the two teams have scored the same amount of points in that WRFU CC round, and this is a question of promotion, relegation or seeding between teams for playoffs, then the teams will be split with a coin toss with the winner of the coin toss given the higher position. A neutral WRFU Official will assign each team to either heads or tails, and will then toss the coin, which will be allowed to hit the ground; e. In the event that the two teams have scored the same amount of points in that WRFU CC round, and this is not a question of promotion, relegation or seeding between teams for playoffs, then the teams will share equal position. Three or More Teams Tied on WRFU CC Points 6.7 If three or more teams are tied on WRFU CC points then the positions will be decided by applying the following steps in alphabetical sequence until the required number of positions are determined. Should a team (or teams) have a higher ranking at any step in the following, that team (or teams with the same ranking) will have a higher position than the teams with a lower ranking at that step. Teams that are still tied for a ranking will be separated by applying such of the remaining steps as required to distinguish between the teams still tied. a. Most wins from all Matches in that WRFU CC round; Page 18

19 b. Highest aggregate points difference from all Matches in that WRFU CC round (and in respect of defaults By-Law 6.3 shall apply); c. Most points scored from all matches in that WRFU CC round (and in respect of defaults By- Law 6.3 shall apply); d. If two teams are still tied, and this is a question of promotion, relegation or seeding between teams for playoffs, the teams will be split by a coin toss with the winner of the coin toss given the higher position. The coin toss will take place in the same format as in By-Law 6.6(d) above; e. If three or more teams are still tied, and this is a question of promotion, relegation or seeding between teams for playoffs, the teams will be split by drawing names from a hat, with the first team drawn taking the highest position, and so on; f. If teams are still tied (after 6.7 c.) and this is not a question of promotion, relegation or seeding between teams for playoffs, then the teams will share equal position. Example 1: three teams are tied for 3 rd, and only two positions need to be found: i. Team A and Team B have 4 wins each and Team C has 3 wins. Team A and Team B share a ranking of 1 and Team C has a ranking of 3. ii. Team C are 5 th, and Teams A and B need to be separated using the next steps in By- Law 6.7 to determine who finishes 3 rd and who finishes 4 th. Example 2: four teams are tied for 2 nd, and only three positions need to be found: iii. iv. Team A and Team B have 4 wins each. Team C and Team D have 3 wins each. Teams A and B share a ranking of 1, Teams C and D share a ranking of 3. Teams A and B need to be separated using the next steps in By-Law 6.7 to determine who finishes 2 nd and who finishes 3 rd. v. Teams C and D need to be separated using the next steps in By-Law 6.7 to determine who finishes 4 th and who finishes 5 th By-Law 6 applies in its entirety at any stage of a WRFC CC. 7. Trophies 7.1 The WRFU shall award the WRFU Trophies as set out in Schedule 3. Page 19

20 SECTION C ELIGIBILITY 8. Player Eligibility Base Requirement 8.1 To be eligible to play in the WRFU CC and to be eligible for selection to WRFU representative teams, a player must comply with the requirements of By-Laws 8 and 9 unless otherwise expressly stated. Additional requirements may also be applied by WRFU for representative team eligibility. a) For eligibility to play for a Club in any WRFU (but not WRFU CC) tournament (such as sevens or tena-side) see By Law WRFU Discretion 8.2 The WRFU has an overriding discretion as set out in By-Law 8.22 to restrict or confer eligibility for any player. Registration 8.3 Prior to first playing for any Club or secondary school during that WRFU Season, a player must register with that Club or secondary school: a. which is located within the WRFU provincial boundaries or has been accepted by WRFU or WSSRU to compete in a WRFU or WSSRU Competition; and b. which is a participant in WRFU or WSSRU Competitions; and c. by completion of the NZRU online registration process. For the purposes of this By-Law, registration is deemed to be effected upon completion of the WRFU online registration form inc and the Club activating the registration record in the Sporty registration system. Clubs must not withhold activating any registration on the basis of non-payment of subscription fees, or for any other reason other than for disciplinary reasons (e.g. a player has been suspended for the whole year). WR and NZRU Eligibility Requirements 8.4 A player must comply with all applicable WR regulations including those for the transfer (WR International Clearance Form) of a player between WR countries. (See WR Regulation 4 governing player status, player contracts and player movement). 8.5 A player must comply with all applicable NZRU regulations including those for the transfer of a player between NZRU Provincial Unions (See NZR Registration Policies & Procedures). Page 20

21 WRFU Transfer By-Laws 8.6 A player from another NZRU province may, subject to By-Law 8.5 above, transfer to WRFU by registering with a WRFU Club or secondary school. 8.7 A Club player may play for a Club which is different from the WRFU Club for which the player last played by registering with the new Club. Additionally, a player must first obtain a transfer in accordance with By-Law 8.9 if the player wishes to change Clubs during a WRFU Season. 8.8 Any player who has played in five or more WRFU CC Matches for a Club in Premier rugby in a WRFU season, is not permitted to transfer clubs in that WRFU Season unless exceptional circumstances apply. If a Club believes exceptional circumstances apply, it must make a written application to the CRSC. Applications received within 48 hours of a Match will not be considered before that Match. The decision of the CRSC under By-Law 8.8 is final. 8.9 Except as permitted by this By-Law 8, a player cannot register with more than one Club in or for the same WRFU Season unless they successfully transfer. The process for a transfer is set out here: a. The player must complete the online registration form for the new club they wish to play for; b. The registration administrator at the new club must activate the registration. At this point a prompt will appear asking the administrator of they wish to transfer the player; c. The old club s registration administator will receive an asking them to approve or decline the transfer; d. The new club s registration administator will receive an confirming if the transfer is approved or declined. Clubs no longer require the WRFU s approval for player transfers, however Management will preform weekly checks to ensure that By-Law 8 is being adhered to Clubs must not withhold a player transfer for any reason other than the transferring player still being in possession of Club issued gear in the current season. Re-gradings 8.11 The Re-Grading rules which apply to the Premier, Premier Reserve, First Grade and Women s competitions only are: Page 21

22 (a) Players are free to move between teams within the Club with which they are registered until the end of the Swindale Shield competition. (b) Unless a regrade is approved, from commencement of the second round of the Premier competition no player in Premier, Premier Reserve, First Grade and Women s may move down a level/levels once they have started three games in any level above the one to which they wish to move. By way of definition each grade is a level and each division within that grade (if there are multiple divisions) is a separate level. E.G. A player who has started three games for a Jubilee Cup team, cannot then play for a Hardham Cup team, or a player who has started two games in Premier Reserve and one game for a Premier side cannot move to First Grade. (c) The Grade Hierarchy, as determined by the CRSC annually is set out below: 1. Premier 2. Premier Reserve 3. Women s Div 1 4. Colts A (Div 1) 5. First Grade 6. Colts B (Div 2) 7. U85kg Div 1 8. Women s Div 2 9. First Grade Div U85kg Div Reserve Grade Div Reserve Grade Div Presidents (d) A player who is restricted from moving to another level may apply for a re-grade using the WRFU Re-grading application form (WRFU Form 3), which must be submitted to the WRFU not less than 48 hours prior to the commencement of the Match. The application may be approved or denied by the CRSC in its discretion. Page 22

23 (e) A regrade request (WRFU Form 3) must comply with these requirements: 1. Only one player per form. 2. The form must include all rugby played by the player during the previous 6 weeks, including appearances (and specifying whether each appearance is starting or off the reserves bench) for any team in which the player appeared, and the approximate length of time played in each of those weeks. 3. Detailed reasons for the request. For example, if it is due to selection (or non-selection), the other players selected ahead of the player requesting the regrade must be named. If it is due to injuries, the form must include the injured players and the injuries. 4. The form must be signed by a Club official. 5. The form must be submitted to the WRFU not less than 48 hours prior to commencement of the Match. Any application received after this time will not be dealt with until the following week. The CRSC and CRA will keep and update a record of all requests for regrades, whether approved or denied. This will be publically available on the WRFU website. Unless otherwise determined under By-Law 8.22, regrades will not be granted for a player after the last WRFU CC Match of that player s team in that WRFU Season. By way of example if a player has started for an First Grade Division 1 side three times since the start of the second round of the Premier competition, once the First Grade Division 1 side finishes, that player cannot play in a lower level (such as First Grade Division 2) without successfully applying under By-Law Age Restricted Players 8.13 A player who as at and including 31 December in the previous year meets the relevant age restriction (e.g. the player is under 21 as at 31 December of the previous year) may register for and play for that age restricted team. This is relevant not only for WRFU CC but also for WRFU representative teams. Weight Restricted Players 8.14 A player who on each playing day meets the relevant weight restriction (e.g. the player is 84.9kgs or under) may register for and play for the relevant weight restricted team.. Dispensation for Overage Players 8.15 Overage players may apply for dispensation to play in a WRFU age restricted competition. To satisfy the requirements of the CRSC, a dispensation request (WRFU Form 4) for an overage player to play in a WRFU age restricted competition must include the following information and be submitted no later Page 23

24 than 48 hours prior to the commencement of the Match. Any application received after this time will be dealt with in the following week. 1. Only one player per form 2. The form must include previous playing history (if any); 3. Detailed reasons for the request. For example, if it is due to selection or non-selection, the players who have been selected ahead of the player must be named. If it is due to injuries, the form must include the name/s of the injured players and the injuries; 4. The form must be signed by a Club official. The CRSC s decision under By-Law 8.15 is final. The CRSC and CRA will keep and update a record of all requests for dispensation, whether approved or declined. This is to promote consistency of approvals/declines. This will be publically available on the WRFU website. Suspended Players 8.16 Suspended players are not eligible to play any WRFU CC Match during the period of their suspension. Unless the suspension extends to training and/or performing any non-playing role on Match day, the player may undertake such activities. Proof of Eligibility 8.17 WRFU may require proof (in such form as it requires) of satisfaction of any of the player eligibility rules. The WRFU may in its discretion restrict the eligibility of a player until the WRFU is satisfied as to the eligibility of such player. Overseas Players 8.18 A non-new Zealand citizen who does not hold a valid Resident Visa or Permanent Resident Visa ( Overseas Player ) is not eligible to play in a second round WRFU CC Match unless the Overseas Player has legally played in a first round WRFU CC Match for a WRFU Club in the same WRFU Season. A WRFU Club may only play a maximum of 3 Overseas Players in each Premier and Premier Reserve WRFU CC Match. If a player has resided in New Zealand on an approved New Zealand visa other than a valid Resident Visa or Permanent Resident Visa for a period of 36 months of more; upon written application to the CRA, approval can be given by the CRSC for the player to be considered a Local player rather than Overseas Player. Any applications received will be considered by the CRSC at their next monthly meeting. Page 24

25 Disciplinary, Medical or Other Restrictions on Eligibility 8.19 A player's eligibility may be restricted as a result of disciplinary procedures, health and safety requirements, medical rules, doping, corruption offences, or other reasons as may arise within the laws of New Zealand, the laws of the game or through the application of WR, NZRU, WRFU or WRFU Rules or By-Laws. Players Issued With a Blue Card 8.20 If a player receives a Blue Card (Concussion Card), that player is not permitted to transfer to a non- WRFU club, or play at any level, until the player has completed: the Graduated Return To Play protocols, and; medical clearance has been granted by a medical professional, and; the Club has received approval from the CRA. The CRA will not consider any request for clearance for a Match if that request is received within 24 hours of the Match. The player may train as allowed by the Graduated Return to Play protocols. Breaches 8.21 For penalties for breaches of By-Law 8, see By-Law 11. General WRFU Discretion to ensure fairness in application of By-Law On written application to it, the Rugby Board has an overriding discretion to restrict or confer eligibility (including granting or rescinding a transfer) on such conditions as it determines but only where the Rugby Board determines that: a. the application of the By-laws is unfair or may produce a consequence that is unfair, to any person or is not in the spirit of fair play; or b. the specific situation is not appropriately covered by the By-Laws; or c. where special circumstances occur or there are special circumstances which excuse a failure to comply with a procedure, time period or other requirement of By-Law 8. Any decision under By-Law 8.22 is made on the facts of a specific situation and is not to be regarded as a binding precedent for any future use of By-Law Any decision under this By-Law 8.22 must be communicated to all Members. Any Member which may be affected by a decision under this By-Law is entitled to be heard at the decision-making session and/or provide written submissions for consideration. Otherwise, the Rugby Board will determine its own rules and processes in relation to this By-Law. Page 25

26 9. Amateur Status Prohibition on offer of, or receipt of, Financial Reward 9.1 No Member, Club member, Club or team coaching participant, Club or team management participant, Club supporter, or any representative of a Member, or any third party shall directly or indirectly offer to or receive from any person, any Financial Reward for participating in the game of rugby for a Member. 9.2 Financial Reward means any form of financial benefit including, but not limited to, money, goods or services, but does not include the following: a. playing equipment, playing strip, reasonable casual and training clothing, and gear bags; b. medical and physiotherapy treatment and resources relating to the game of rugby; c. normal refreshments, food, and travel in conjunction with other Club members, Club or team coaching participants, Club or team management participants, or other members of a Member; d. engagement (either directly or indirectly) by a Member of the equivalent of one full time CDO (but not more than two people making up that role at any one time) either alone or jointly with any other Member or Members to develop, promote and coach rugby for that Member or Members but any such CDO shall not receive any Financial Reward for playing for, or coaching, any particular team or teams of the Member or Members; e. the situation where an employee of, or contractor to, the WRFU (or an entity that is authorised to represent the WRFU) also participates in, or is required by the terms of such employment or contract to participate in, the game of rugby for a Member provided that such employee or contractor does not separately from such contract receive any Financial Reward for so doing. Application to Rugby Board for Determinations/Dispensations 9.3 A Member may apply in writing to the Rugby Board for: a. a determination as to whether or not a proposed activity or undertaking will be in breach of this By-Law 9; and/or b. a dispensation from the application of this By-Law 9 in respect of a proposed activity or undertaking by that Member. If a determination or dispensation is made, WRFU must communicate that decision to all Members. Page 26

27 Members to support intent and spirit of By-Law All Members must support and implement the intent and spirit of this By-Law 9. If a Member is unsure of the effect of a proposed activity it should seek clarification under By-Law 9.3. Breaches 9.5 For penalties for breach of this By-Law, see By-Law Other Disqualified Persons 10.1 Persons who are not players but who are the subject of a suspension imposed by the WRFU, NZRU, SANZAAR, World Rugby or any WRFU Member or NZRU Member, are not eligible to participate in the WRFU CC or WRFU tournaments during the period of that suspension. Page 27

28 SECTION D BREACHES, PENALTIES, DISPUTES AND APPEALS 11. Provisions Relating to Breaches of these By-Laws By-Laws 8, 9 and Any complaint of an alleged breach of By-Law 8, 9 or 10 must be made in writing on the WRFU Complaint/Dispute Form (WRFU Form 5) to the WRFU Club Rugby Administrator. The complaint shall be dealt with by the Rugby Board or if it so determines then by its designated committee (referred to for the purposes of this By-Law 11 as Rugby Board) Any person who, or Member which, is found to be in breach of By-Law 8, 9 or 10 (and is not covered by By-law 11.3 or 11.4) or any person who, or Member which, fails or refuses to co-operate with a request of the Rugby Board in the course of any determination of a complaint, may be suspended from participating in the game of rugby for, or within, the WRFU for such period of time as the Rugby Board deems fit If, following the process in By-Law 11.8, the Rugby Board finds that any of the persons referred to in By-Law 9.1 have breached By-Law 9, it may impose such penalty on the Member as it deems fit, including but not limited to: a. Removal of WRFU CC points of the team to which the breach is related (up to a maximum of three WRFU CC Matches won by that team); b. Allocation in its discretion of the WRFU CC points from the WRFU CC Match or Matches; c. Removal of the availability of WRFU resources; d. Removal of any financial benefits the Member may enjoy by reason of its membership of WRFU; e. Removal of a team or teams of a Club from WRFU CC for such period as the Rugby Board deems fit; f. Suspension of the Member as a Member of the WRFU for such period as the Rugby Board deems fit; g. Removal of that Club s Premier Status (if applicable) If a player plays in breach of By-Laws 8 or 9 the Rugby Board may impose such penalty as it deems fit and: a. May impose disqualification of the player for such period as it sees fit; b. Must remove the WRFU CC points of the team for which the player played while ineligible (up to a maximum of three WRFU CC Matches won by that team); Page 28

29 c. May in its discretion allocate WRFU CC points from the WRFU CC Match or Matches; d. May impose any other penalty on a Club or player as deemed appropriate in the circumstances If a player breaches By-Law 8.20 (Blue Card) the Rugby Board: a. Must remove any WRFU CC points attained by the team in Matches in which the player played while ineligible, and a further five CC points; and b. May impose any other penalty on a Club or player as deemed appropriate in the circumstances. By-Law 5 - Defaults 11.6 A Club that has failed to comply with By-Law 5 is liable to the penalties as set out in By-Law 5 and as also recorded in the Schedule of Penalties for Breaches of By-Laws (Schedule 4). If, in relation to a WRFU CC Match, there is a breach under By-Law 5.3 where there is both a failure to notify by 12.00pm (noon) on the day prior to the Match and a failure to notify at all, the penalty for failure to notify at all shall apply and the penalty for failure to notify by 12.00pm (noon) on the day prior to the Match shall not apply If a Club denies that it has failed to comply with By-Law 5.3 or believes that there are special circumstances under either By-law 5.1 and/or 5.3 which warrant a lesser penalty or no penalty at all under By-law 5.1 and/or 5.3, the Club must within five days of the date of such WRFU CC Match, request in writing to WRFU that the matter be referred to the Rugby Board (acting through and by either the CRSC or the PSEC depending on the circumstances). Rugby Board Process and Powers to deal with any breach of By-Laws 11.8 Apart from the circumstances set out in By-laws 11.9 and any alleged breach of these By-Laws must be made in writing on the WRFU Complaint/Dispute Form (WRFU Form 5) to the CRA. Unless otherwise specified, the Rugby Board must allow the parties involved to be heard before the Rugby Board. The Rugby Board must impose penalties as required in these By-laws within any penalty restrictions (if any) set out in these By-Laws and as recorded in the Schedule of Penalties for Breaches of By-Laws (Schedule 4) and otherwise as it determines Where the WRFU Club Rugby Administrator is satisfied that a breach of these By-laws has occurred and there is no discretion in the penalty to apply for such breach, the WRFU Club Rugby Administrator may impose the penalty without being required to follow the process in By-law 11.8 but if a party disputes that it was in breach then the process in By-Law 11.8 must then be followed Where the PSEC (acting on behalf of the Rugby Board) considers that a Club has failed to adhere to the Premier Status Eligibility Criteria, the PSEC will notify the Club of this, and if the Club disputes this Page 29

30 the PSEC will conduct a hearing to determine the matter and potential penalty in accordance with this By-Law. The PSEC will determine its own process. All Members who may be potentially affected by the PSEC s decision have the right to appear to give evidence and/or make submissions before the PSEC determines the matter and penalty. The PSEC must impose penalties as required, and as authorised to do so on behalf of the Rugby Board, in these By-Laws within any penalty restrictions (if any) set out in these By-Laws and as recorded in the Schedule of Penalties for Breaches of By-Laws (Schedule 4) and otherwise as it determines. 12. Complaints or Disputes Between Clubs 12.1 In case of any complaint or dispute as between Clubs, Members or other bodies in relation to these By-Laws and not otherwise covered by these By-Laws, a written statement on the WRFU Complaint/Dispute Form (WRFU Form 5) prepared by the Club, Member, or body which wishes to initiate this complaint/dispute process and which clearly sets out the points on which the complaint/dispute is based, must, not later than 14 days following the incident (or latest incident) or the matter on which the complaint/dispute is based be forwarded by that Club, Member, or body to the WRFU and to the secretary of the other Clubs, Members or bodies involved A Complaint/Dispute Form (WRFU Form 5) is not received until payment of a $200 deposit is received by WRFU. This deposit may be returned if the Club is successful with their complaint/dispute or if the body deciding the complaint decides it is appropriate to do so The Rugby Board or its appointed subcommittee will determine its own process and will hold a hearing at which any of the Clubs, Members or bodies involved have the right to appear to give evidence and/or make submissions. The Rugby Board or its subcommittee will then determine the matter and will have the same powers as in By-Law Disciplinary Procedures General 13.1 The Disciplinary Committee has the powers and jurisdiction set out in the NZR Black Book (Rules for Disciplinary Hearings)and as may be further provided in these By-laws. It operates in accordance with the Black Book and as may be further provided in these By-laws. Composition of Senior Club Rugby Disciplinary Committees 13.2 The Disciplinary Committee shall comprise 3 persons appointed by the Rugby Board including an independent Chairman (i.e a person who has no affiliation to any Club or secondary school in the WRFU province) and 2 members of the Rugby Board. If an independent Chairman is unavailable a replacement Chairman (who may have affiliation to a Club or school in the WRFU province) must be designated by the Rugby Board to perform the role of Chairman. Page 30

31 Composition of College Rugby Disciplinary Committees 13.3 In respect of disciplinary hearings involving players in a school team, or a school team under the jurisdiction of the WSSRU or any match involving a secondary school played in the WRFU province, the Disciplinary Committee shall comprise an independent Chairman and two members appointed by the WSSRU. All disciplinary hearings involving referee abuse, or hearings that involve persons other than a player will be heard by the WRFU Senior Club Rugby Disciplinary Committee. Composition of Junior Rugby Disciplinary Committees 13.4 In respect of disclipnary hearings involving players in a junior team under the jurisdiction of the WRFU or any match involving a junior club team played in the WRFU province, the Disciplinary Committee shall comprise an independent Chairman and two members appointed by the JRAB. All disciplinary hearings involving referee abuse, or hearings that involve persons other than a player will be heard by the WRFU Senior Club Rugby Disciplinary Committee. Players ordered off 13.5 The provisions of Rules of Section 3 and Rules of Section 4 (where applicable) of the Black Book shall apply in respect of a player who has been ordered off in any Match. Other functions of Disciplinary Committee 13.6 The Disciplinary Committee shall have the power to hear, deal with and impose penalties in respect of any other matters which are referred to it by these By-laws and the Black Book. Appeals 13.7 The WRFU Appeal Committee has the powers and jurisdiction set out in Section 5 (Rules ) of the Black Book and operates in accordance with the Black Book and as may be further provided by these Bylaws. Senior Rugby Appeals 13.8 The WRFU Appeal Committee shall comprise an independent Chairman (ie. a person who has no affiliation to any Club in the WRFU province) appointed by the Rugby Board and not less than 2 other persons selected by the Rugby Board from the President and/or Vice Presidents for the time being of the WRFU and/or Presidents of Clubs of the WRFU. All members of the Appeal Committee shall be independent of all parties to the appeal. If the Independent Chairman is unavailable the same replacement provision applies as for By-law Page 31

32 13.9 Subject to By-Laws and 13.11, any notice of appeal to the WRFU Appeal Committee shall be accompanied by a deposit of $ The notice of appeal is only valid if both it, and the deposit, are received by the WRFU within 7 days of notification of the decision being appealed. College Rugby Appeals A notice of appeal from a decision of the WSSRU Disciplinary Committee is to the WRFU Appeal Committee and must be accompanied by all of the following: a. A deposit of $ paid by the body lodging the appeal, whether it is a school or the WRRA. b. A letter of support signed by the Principal and Convenor/Rugby Administrator In School of the school lodging the appeal, or their nominees, and, where the appeal is lodged on behalf of a player, the Player s Coach. c. An undertaking from the Principal of the school lodging the appeal, or their nominee, that they will attend with the Player at the appeal hearing. Junior Rugby Appeals In any appeal from a decision of the JRAB in a disciplinary matter (see By-Law 13.11) the Disciplinary Committee shall comprise an independent Chairperson, one member of the Rugby Board (appointed by the Rugby Board) and one member of the JRAB (appointed by the JRAB). If an independent Chairman is unavailable a replacement Chairperson (who may have affiliation to a Club or school in the WRFU province) must be designated by the Rugby Board to perform the role of Chairperson. A notice of appeal from a decision of the JRAB Disciplinary Committee is to the WRFU Appeal Committee and must be accompanied by all of the following: a. A deposit of $ paid by the body lodging the appeal, whether it is a Club or the WRRA. b. A letter of support signed by the Junior Rugby Convenor of the Club lodging the appeal, or their nominees, and, where the appeal is lodged on behalf of an individual. c. An undertaking from the Junior Convenor of the Club lodging the appeal, or their nominee, that they will attend with the individual at the appeal hearing. Match Called Off Where a Match for which the WRFU has jurisdiction is called off early by the Referee because of: a. Persistent or serious Illegal and/or Foul Play by Players; and/or b. Persistent or serious Misconduct by team management or supporters; and/or c. Bad conduct generally; Page 32

33 14. Appeals of one or both teams involved in the Match, the provisions of Rules of Section 3 and Rules of Section 4 of the Black Book shall apply Appeals may relate to varying subject matters and are dealt with as listed below: a. Appeal against a decision of the WRFU, WSSRU, or JRAB Disciplinary Committees is dealt with by the WRFU Appeal Committee see By-Laws and the Black Book; b. Appeal against a decision of the WRFU Appeal Committee see Black Book Section 6; c. Appeal against a decision of the Rugby Board and including a decision of the CRSC (see By- Laws 5.3, 5.4 and 11.7) or PSEC (see By-Laws 3.12, 3.13, 5.1, 5.3, 5.4, 11.7 and 11.10) (but excluding a decision of the Disciplinary Committee which is dealt with under a. above) is by way of review by the Board of Directors - see Rule of Constitution The process to be followed for a party to dispute a decision of the Rugby Board under By-Law 14.1(c) is as follows: a. Disputes must be lodged within 7-days of the notification of the decision of the Rugby Board on the particular matter or within such shorter time period as determined by the Rugby Board or its authorised Sub-Committee in the particular circumstances. b. For lodgement to be effected WRFU Notice of Appeal (WRFU Form 6), containing the grounds that are to be advanced, and a $500 deposit must have been received by the WRFU. c. Subject to the following, if the notice of the dispute and/or the deposit is received outside the deadline, the right to dispute the decision will be deemed to have been abandoned. If the Chairman dealing with the dispute considers that exceptional circumstances have caused a delay then the Chairman may decide that the review will proceed. d. Unless the Board of Directors determine that exceptional circumstances exist requiring the postponement of the hearing, a hearing will be conducted within 7-days of the lodgement of the dispute. e. The hearing will be by way of review and shall be conducted in accordance with Rule and Schedule One of the WRFU Constitution. f. As well as having the power to award any penalty set out in Schedule 4 of these By-Laws the Body hearing the dispute may, if it sees fit in the circumstances, award costs against a party to the dispute of a sum not exceeding $2, g. The body hearing the dispute may, in its discretion, order that any deposit paid on the lodgement of a dispute be refunded in full or in part. This discretion is to be exercised in the Page 33

34 particular circumstances of the case and although an unsuccessful applicant is unlikely to receive a refund of their deposit, a successful applicant cannot expect the deposit to be refund merely by reason of that success. SECTION E OTHER 15. Members General Meetings and Information 15.1 The WRFU may at its discretion require the production of books of account, papers, documents and other relevant material of any Member for the purpose of audit by WRFU Every year each Member of the WRFU must notify the WRFU of all general meetings (e.g. AGM, SGM), and must send to the WRFU completed annual reports and financial statements for the preceding financial period. 16. Matches which are not WRFU CC Matches Within WRFU boundaries: 16.1 All non-wrfu CC Matches (including those of junior teams and including WRFU tournaments referred to in By-Law 16.2) which occur within WRFU boundaries and which involve a Club, come under the jurisdiction of WRFU and unless otherwise specified by WRFU or NZRU, WR s "The Laws of the Game of Rugby Union" apply. The WRFU may impose such requirements as it deems fit in respect of such Matches and any such requirements shall be deemed to be By-Laws for the purposes of Section D of the By-Laws. Clubs must give prior notification of such Matches to WRFU. Prior to hosting or playing against an overseas touring team, the Club must comply with all NZRU Regulations including ensuring that the overseas Club has obtained permission of its national union for the tour, and the Club must notify this to the WRFU. WRFU Tournaments 16.2 A player is eligible to participate in any WRFU tournament (such as sevens or ten-a-side) for the WRFU club for which the player is registered in the current WRFU Season (1 October-30 September) Section D (including breaches and disciplinary procedures) of the By-laws apply to Matches in By-Laws 16.1 and Outside the WRFU boundaries but within NZRU boundaries: 16.4 All host provincial union disciplinary procedures apply to such Matches unless Rule 6 of Section 2 of the Black Book applies or as otherwise required by NZRU. Page 34

35 Outside NZRU boundaries: 16.5 Where a Club (which for the purposes of this By-Law includes any Member or other affiliated body) wishes to arrange a match for its team or teams (including any junior teams) outside New Zealand, the Club must comply with all NZRU Regulations and the Club must: a. apply for approval on the required WRFU form (WRFU Form 7); and b. lodge the WRFU form with WRFU within the required WRFU time period of 3 months prior to date of departure; and c. obtain WRFU written approval which will not be granted if there is any conflict with WRFU CC fixtures involving the relevant Club team or teams; and d. obtain the WRFU's approval of the management of the Club's touring team; and e. obtain the NZRU's written approval; before making a final commitment to any proposed trip All host country disciplinary procedures apply to such games unless otherwise required by WR or by agreement between NZRU and the host country. Page 35

36 SCHEDULE 1 WRFU FORMS By-Law Name of Form Form Number 3.7 WRFU Grade Entry Form WRFU Form & 4.9 WRFU Team Card WRFU Form WRFU Player Re-grading Application Form WRFU Form WRFU Player Dispensation Form WRFU Form WRFU Complaint/Dispute Form WRFU Form & 14.2 WRFU Notice of Appeal Form WRFU Form WRFU and NZRU Approval Form for match (outside NZ) WRFU Form Serious Injury Form WRFU Form PSEC Memorandum of Understanding WRFU Form 9 Page 36

37 WRFU FORM 1 - GRADE ENTRY FORM CLUB: YEAR: NOTE: Clubs are requested to indicate for all Premier and Senior grades the number of 18, 19, 20 and 21 year olds in their respective teams. Clubs are also requested to indicate with their lower grade entries: 1. Anticipated strength of respective teams, including how the team compares to the previous seasons team. (NB: For an U21 team made up of largely U19 players, Division 3 would be appropriate). 2. Please also indicate any teams with a large number of students, so as to assist the Union with the draw around University holidays, exams etc. Grade Premier Premier Reserve First Grade Women s Div 1 Colts (as at 31 Dec) Div 2 Colts (as at 31 Dec) Div 3 Colts (as at 31 Dec) Div 1 85kg Restricted Div 2 85kg Restricted Reserve 1 Reserve 2 Over 30 s Presidents No. of entries Remarks TOTAL NUMBER OF TEAMS ENTERED SIGNED SECRETARY/CLUB CAPTAIN Page 37

38 WRFU FORM 2 - WRFU TEAM CARD Page 38

39 WRFU FORM 3 - PLAYER REGRADING APPLICATION FORM Please submit to Michael Langley - michael.langley@wrfu.co.nz, no less than 48 hours prior to the Match which is the subject of the regrade application. PLAYERS NAME: CURRENT PLAYING GRADE: GRADE TO BE REGRADED TO: RECENT PLAYING RECORD (List last six playing weeks, grades played, and approximate length of time played. Include matches where the player backed up for another team): DATE GRADE/MINUTES PLAYED + BACK UP IF APPLICABLE REASONS FOR REGRADE APPLICATION (Include as much information as possible to assist the Club Rugby Sub Committee to reach a decision. If the regrade is due to injuries or selections, then players and/or injuries must be stated see also CRSC Policies and Procedures). (CONTINUE A SEPARATE PAGE IF NEEDED) SIGNED (CLUB CAPTAIN): DATE: CLUB RUGBY SUB COMMITTEE USE ONLY: APPROVED / DECLINED SIGNED: DATE: Page 39

40 WRFU FORM 4 PLAYER DISPENSATION APPLICATION FORM Please submit to Michael Langley - michael.langley@wrfu.co.nz, no later than 5pm of the Thursday prior to the match which is the subject of the dispensation application. PLAYERS NAME: GRADE SEEKING DISPENSATION FOR: DATE OF BIRTH: WEIGHT: PLAYING POSITION: PREVIOUS PLAYING RECORD (List previous schools/clubs and grades played previously): DATE CLUB + GRADE PLAYED REASONS FOR DISPENSATION APPLICATION (Include as much information as possible to assist the Club Rugby Sub Committee to reach a decision see also CRSC Policies and Procedures). CONTINUE ON A SEPARATE PAGE IF NECESSARY SIGNED (CLUB CAPTAIN) DATE CLUB RUGBY SUB COMMITTEE USE ONLY: APPROVED / DECLINED SIGNED: DATE: Page 40

41 WRFU FORM 5 - WRFU COMPLAINT/DISPUTE FORM I, am hereby lodging a complaint / dispute on behalf of the RFC against The incident occurred on / / at The complaint is based upon Bylaw/s: Description of complaint/dispute: Were any WRFU Officials present who may have witnessed these events? If so, who? Signed: Date: Club position (if applicable): Page 41

42 WRFU FORM 6 - WRFU NOTICE OF APPEAL FORM Bylaw 14 - Appeals 14.1 Appeals may relate to varying subject matters listed below and are dealt with as listed below: a) Appeal against a decision of WRFU Disciplinary Committee is dealt with by WRFU Appeal Committee see By-Laws, and the Black Book; b) Appeal against a decision of the WRFU Appeal Committee see Black Book; c) Appeal against a decision of the Rugby Board (but excluding a decision of the WRFU Disciplinary Committee which is dealt with under a. above) is by way of review by the WRFU Board of Directors - see Rule of Constitution. When urgency applies, the Rugby Board may shorten the time period involved in the appeal process To lodge an appeal under By-Law 14.1(c), a WRFU Notice of Appeal Form (WRFU Form 6) must be completed and submitted to WRFU within any applicable time period. Name of person lodging the appeal: Are you lodging the appeal on behalf of the club of a player? Yes / No If yes, written authority from the player concerned must accompany the Notice of Appeal The decision being appealed against: The date of the decision being appealed against: The specific grounds for the appeal: Signed: Club Position (if applicable): Timeframes for lodging notice of appeal: A: Appeal against decision of WRFU Disciplinary Committee See Bylaws, and the NZRU Black Book Notice of appeal must be accompanied by $500 + GST deposit B: Appeal against a WRFU Appeal Committee decision 7 days + any deposit applicable See NZRU Black Book C: Appeal against a decision of the Rugby Board (ie, complaint/dispute) See Rule of the WRFU Constitution and By-Law 14.1 (c) Page 42

43 WRFU FORM 7- APPROVAL FORM FOR MATCH OUTSIDE NEW ZEALAND (To be completed sent to the Club s Union for approval not less than three months before proposed date of departure) APPLICANT: ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER: GRADE OF TEAM TO TRAVEL: COUNTRY OF DESTINATION: INCLUSIVE DATES OF TRIP: (not to exceed three weeks) NUMBERS IN P A RT Y : Are they all bona fida financial members of the Club? Yes/No HOST CLUB: MATCHES TO BE PLAYED: Club Players Officials Supporters Total Venue Date Financial arrangements with the Clubs to be visited or other organisations: Written evidence of approval by visited National Union (e.g. Aust RFU) obtained by host Club overseas. Club s Financial Status: Cost of Trip: Travel (a) Copy attached (b) Application made to host Club overseas and copy will be forwarded prior to departure. (c) NZRFU is requested to ascertain if the tour has the approval of the host National Union. Accommodation Meals Total Trip Funds on Hand: Appeal for funds: Method of Travel: (Include Fl. Nos. arrival and departure points) Injury and Illness Insurance: (Details of cover for team members while overseas). Manager of Team on Tour: Address: (Certification by bank or travel agent that all tour funds are in hand is required before departure) We certify that no appeal, other than to Club members for donations, etc. to travelling funds were circulated beyond the boundaries of the Union s Districts. Position held in Club Phone Number It is hereby certificated that the above particulars are correct, and that the Executive of the touring Club have formally approved of the raising of funds for the trip and for the trip being made. Certified Correct: (Chairman, Secretary of Club) Date: Page 43

44 WRFU FORM 8 - SERIOUS INJURY FORM Page 44

45 WRFU FORM 9 PSEC MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN: Wellington Rugby Football Union Inc. (WRFU) And Rugby Football Club (Club): By signing this Agreement: The Club is applying for entry into the WRFU Premier Rugby competition for the 2017 season. The Club acknowledges that it meets the entry criteria, having: Completed a Club Self-Assessment Scorecard achieving a minimum score of 18 points in each quadrant, and a minimum overall score of 75 points. Supplied all the compulsory documentation listed on the Premier Status Application Checklist The Club also undertakes that for the 2017 season it will field competitive teams in the following grades: Premier Premier Reserve Colts By signing this Agreement on good faith terms, the WRFU and the Club acknowledge That the WRFU By-Laws and the principles of honesty, integrity and inclusiveness are incorporated into this Agreement; More specifically, that one of the foundation principles of Wellington rugby at a club level is the game is an amateur one for all players, coaches, support staff and administrators within a club (WRFU By-law 9); and That for the avoidance of doubt, any breaches of the amateur principle will be dealt with in accordance of WRFU By-Law 11, and will constitute a breach of this Agreement. This Agreement will enter into force on 1 October 2016 and remain in effect for a twelve month period (unless breached by either party before that termination date). Page 45

46 Signed for and on behalf of: Wellington Rugby Football Union By: Peter Scott Rugby Board Chairman Steve Rogers Chief Executive Officer Signed for and on behalf of: Rugby Football Club By: (Name) (Name) (Name) Club Chairperson Club Delegate Club Captain Page 46

47 SCHEDULE 2 - TIME PERIODS By-Law Requirement Time Period 3.3 WRFU to advise WRFU CC rules for Premier, Premier Reserve and First Grades. 3.7 Clubs to forward WRFU Grade Entry Form (WRFU Form 1) to WRFU Club to advise WRFU they dispute the provisional assessment of the PSEC 4.2 Referees must have attended a RugbySmart course 4.5 The period for teams that don t met the Minimum Player Requirements under 4.4 to find eligible players 4.8 Clubs to provide completed WRFU Team Card (WRFU Form 2) to the referee 4.9 Clubs to forward WRFU Team Card (WRFU Form 2) to WRFU Clubs to submit scores for all matches (excluding Presidents) 4.13 Coaches must have attended a RugbySmart course 5.3 Clubs must notify the club in which it is drawn to play that they are unable to play 8.3 A player must register with Club or secondary school 8.11 Time period for receipt by WRFU of WRFU Player Re-grading Application Form (WRFU Form 3) By 30 November of the preceding year. At least 7 days before the start of WRFU Season. Within 7 days Before the first WRFU CC match they referee Twenty minutes post scheduled kickoff time Pre match Within 48 hours following the completion of the match. Within 45 minutes of the completion of match. By the commencement of the teams first WRFU CC match By 12:00pm (noon) on the day prior to the match Prior to playing for that Club or secondary school in that WRFU Season. No less than 48 hours prior to the commencement of the match. Page 47

48 By-Law Requirement Time Period 8.15 Time period for receipt by WRFU of WRFU Player Dispensation Application Form (WRFU Form 4) 8.20 Time period for reciept by WRFU of Medical Clearance for a player to return from Blue Card stand down Time period for Clubs to advise WRFU that they dispute the sanction imposed due to default under 5.1 or The period for submitting a complaint or dispute as between Clubs, Members or bodies in respect of dispute with another Club, Member or body. 13 & & 4.9 Time Period for Referee to submit a report to WRFU that on a match called off, red or yellow card issued, or referee abuse. No less than 48 hours prior to the commencement of the match. No less than 24 hours prior to the commencement of the match. Within five days of the WRFU CC match in question Within 14 days following the incident (or latest incident). Within 48 hours of the match finishing Appeals Various time periods see By-Laws 13 and 14 and Black Book Time Period to lodge WRFU and NZRU Approval Form for match (outside NZ). (WRFU Form 7) Three months prior to date of departure. Page 48

49 SCHEDULE 3 WRFU TROPHIES PREMIER Swindale Shield - 1st Round Jubilee Cup Premier Division 1, 2nd Round Hardham Cup Premier Division 2, 2nd Round Andy Leslie Trophy 1 st placed team at the completion of Jubilee Cup Round Robin Bill Brien Challenge Cup played for on a challenge basis at the holder s home venue The Dominion Post Billy Wallace Best and Fairest awarded to the best and fairest player in the premier club competition, based on weekly points awarded by Dominion Post rugby writers Premier Reserve Harper Lock Shield 1st Round Ed Chaney Cup Division 1, 2 nd Round HD Morgan Memorial Cup Division 2, 2 nd Round First Grade Thompson Memorial Cup Division 1, 1st Round JDR Cup Division 2, 1st Round Johnsonville Centennium Cup Division 1, 2 nd Round Paul Donoghue Memorial Trophy Division 2, 2 nd Round WOMENS Fleurs Trophy 1st Round Victoria Tavern Trophy Division One, 2 nd Round Unnamed Trophy Division Two, 2 nd Round Gary Hilsdon Challenge Cup played for on a challenge basis at the holder s home venue, or at neutral venues where the holder is listed first on the draw. 85kg RESTRICTED JC Bowl Division 1, 1st Round Phillip Wiggins Trophy Division 2, 1st Round Page 49

50 Paul Potiki Memorial Shield Division 1, 2nd Round Tony O Brien Shield Division 2, 2nd Round AGE GRADE Paris Memorial Cup Division 1, 1st Round JRD Cup Division 2, 1st Round James Gilbert Memorial Trophy Division 3, 1 st Round John E Kelly Memorial Cup Division 1, 2nd Round Vic Calcinai Memorial Cup Division 2, 2nd Round Eric Connolly Memorial Cup Division 3, 2 nd Round RESERVE GRADE Mike Copeland Cup Division 1, 1st Round John Davies Cup Division 1, 2nd Round Alan Seerup Cup Division 2, 2nd Round TOURNAMENT TROPHIES: American Ambassadors 7s Men s, Women s & Colts Cup, Plate and Bowl. DEWAR SHIELD The Club or Clubs scoring the highest aggregate of WRFU CC points in all grades shall be declared the winner of the Club Championship and be awarded the Dewar Shield. SIR WILLIAM PERRY MEMORIAL TROPHY The Club or Clubs with the highest average of WRFU CC points per team shall be declared the winner of the Sir William Perry Memorial Trophy. GRIFFITHS MEMORIAL TROPHY The team or teams which receives the highest average of aggregate points per match awarded by Referees in WRFU Club Competition matches for Senior Grade and below shall be declared the winner of the Griffiths Memorial Trophy. Referees shall award up to five points in each of the following categories: a. Conduct and loyalty to captain; b. Dress (on-field); c. Punctuality; Page 50

51 d. Spirit of game adherence to laws of game. JUNIOR MERIT AWARD TROPHY WRFU s Junior Merit Award Trophy shall be awarded on the same basis as the Griffiths Memorial Trophy but instead of being awarded to a team, it is awarded to a Club with the highest average points per team per match. Page 51

52 SCHEDULE 4 - PENALTIES FOR BREACHES OF BY-LAWS To apply for breaches which occur during the same WRFU Season. BREACH BYLAW PENALTY Club fails to forward WRFU Grade Entry Form (WRFU Form 1) at least 7 days prior to start of WRFU Season Club fails to adhere to the Premier Status Eligibility Criteria, as determined by the Premier Status Eligibility Committee. 3.7 Clubs run the risk that they will miss out on their preferred grades The Rugby Board may impose such penalty on the Member as it deems fit, potentially including but not limited to: Premier team deemed ineligible to compete in playoffs, win trophies and/or win awards for that season. Loss of Premier Status Loss of WRFU CC points for the Premier team. If the breach of this By-Law occurs in the first round of competition, the Rugby Board must deem the Premier team ineligible for Jubilee Cup. For defaults see By-Law 5.1 Failure to provide the required number of players or front row players and/or replacement players Failure to commence match within 20 minutes of the allocated start time Failure to provide a properly completed WRFU Team Card (WRFU Form 2) to Referee prior to the match Failure to submit the required WRFU Team Card (WRFU Form 2) to the WRFU within 48 hours of the Match finishing 4.4 Match cannot commence. Offending team/s default the match and receive no WRFU CC points. 4.5 Match cannot commence. Offending team/s default the match and receive no WRFU CC points. 4.4, 4.8 The offending team/s defaults the match and receive no WRFU CC points. 4.9 First Offence: Team Warning Second Offence: Second Team warning Third & Further Offences: Loss of WRFU 4 WRFU CC points for the team that Page 52

53 Failure to submit the required WRFU CC Match Results within the required time period Premier Status Clubs defaulting a WRFU CC match in Premier, Premier Reserve and Colts grade failed to send in its WRFU Team Card First Offence: Warning Second Offence: Second warning Third & Further Offences: Loss of WRFU CC points for the Match on each occasion 5.1 Premier Status Clubs must not default a WRFU CC Match in the following grades: Premier; Premier Reserve; Colts (this only applies to a Club s top colts team). Should breach of this By-Law 5.1 occur in the first round of WRFU CC, the PSEC: Must deem the breaching Club s Premier side ineligible to play in the Jubilee Cup competition; and must remove two WRFU CC points from the team in default, but if that team has already defaulted a WRFU CC Match in that WRFU Season, must remove a total of five WRFU CC points from that team; and must remove two WRFU CC points from the breaching Club's Premier team (unless the Premier team was the defaulting team); and may remove the Premier Status of the offending Club. Should breach of this By-Law 5.1 occur in the second round of WRFU CC, the PSEC: must remove two WRFU CC points from the team in default, but if that team has already defaulted a WRFU CC Match in that WRFU Season, must remove a total of five WRFU CC points from that team; and must remove two WRFU CC points from the breaching Club's Premier team (unless the Premier team was the defaulting team); and Page 53

54 may deem the breaching Club s Premier team ineligible for play-offs; and may remove the Premier Status of the offending Club. Should a Premier Status Club default in a Premier grade WRFU CC Match, the Club will not be eligible for Premier Status in the following WRFU Season, and each of that Club s Premier Reserve team and top Colts team will lose two WRFU CC points.if the Rugby Board (acting through and by the PSEC) determines that there are special circumstances that partially or fully excuse the default, the penalty may be reduced or waived. Defaulting a match 5.2 Offending team receives no WRFU CC points. Failure to notify of default in accordance with By-law 5.3 Failure to notify of default at all in accordance with By- Law 5.3 Default of two matches in succession or three at intervals Player plays in breach of By- Law 8 (Eligibility) or By-Law 9 (Amateur Status) 5.3, 11.5 First Offence: loss of 2 WRFU CC points Further Offences: loss of 5 WRFU CC points 5.3, 11.5 Offending team loses five WRFU CC points. 5.2, 5.4, Offending team receives no WRFU CC points Team withdrawn from the grade (unless WRFU determines otherwise See By-Law 5.4) 8 or 9 and The Rugby Board may impose such penalty as it deems fit and: see 11.4 May impose disqualification of the player for such period as it sees fit; Must remove the WRFU CC points of the team for which the player played while ineligible (up to a maximum of three matches won by that team); May in its discretion allocate WRFU CC points from the Match or Matches; May impose any other penalty on a Club or player as deemed appropriate in the circumstances; Page 54

55 Person/s playing in breach of Blue Card protocol In the event that the breach occurred in a quarter final, semi final, or final, the team must be deemed to have forfeited the Match The Rugby Board may impose such penalty as it deems fit and: Must remove the WRFU CC points of the team for which the player played while ineligible, and a further five CC points; Person/s offering or receiving Financial Reward May impose any other penalty on a Club or player as deemed appropriate in the circumstances. The Rugby Board may impose such penalty on the Member as it deems fit, including but not limited to: Removal of WRFU CC Points of the team to which the breach is related (up to a maximum of three matches won by that team); Allocate in its discretion the WRFU CC points from the match or matches; Removal of availability of WRFU resources; Removal of financial benefits the Member may enjoy by reason of its membership of the WRFU; Removal of a teams of a Club from WRFU CC for such period as the Rugby Board deems fit; Suspension of the Member as a Member of the WRFU for such period as the Rugby Board deems fit. Any person or Member in breach of By-Law 8, 9 or 10 or any person who or 8, 9, 10, 11.2 May be suspended from participating in the game of rugby for, or within, the WRFU for such period of time as the Rugby Board deems fit. Member which fails or refuses to co-operate with a request of the Rugby Board in the course of any determination of a complaint Any other By-law breach 11.8 Such penalty as determined by the Rugby Board. For all disciplinary matters 13 See By-Law 13 Page 55

56 Breach of player eligibility or other requirements for non- WRFU CC matches (including WRFU tournaments) 16.1, 16.2 See WRFU requirements for that WRFU match or WRFU tournament. Page 56

57 Wellington Rugby Football Union (Inc.) CLUB RUGBY SUBCOMMITTEE AND WRFU POLICIES & PROCEDURES Effective February 2017 Page 57

58 Section A- Club Rugby Subcommittee Policies & Procedures 1. Introduction 2. Objective 3. Club Rugby Sub-Committee & WRFU Management Responsibilities 4. Method of Operation 5. Specific Tasks and Timelines 6. Grade Competitions 7. Assessment of Grounds and Facilities 8. Cancellation, Transfers, Regrades and Policy Considerations 9. Registration number of players per team kg Restricted Policy 11. General 12. Tournaments a. Seven a side Tournaments b. Ten a side Tournaments Section B - WRFU Policies & Procedures 1. WRFU Policy on Club Allocation of Academy Players 2. WRFU Policy on Club Allocation of Provincial Union Contracted Players 3. WRFU Committee for Club Allocation of Academy, Contracted and Draft Players 4. WRFU Policy on Club Reallocation of Academy and Contracted Players 5. Protocols WRFU Policy on Club Allocation of Academy, Contracted and Draft Players 6. WRFU Policy on Coach selection process for Amateur Representative Teams from Development Team Down 7. Youth Player Eligibility Policy Senior/Open Competitions 8. Female Youth Player Eligibility Policy - Womens Grade Competitions Page 58

59 1. Introduction 1.1 The constitution of the WRFU provides for the Rugby Board to appoint from its own number or otherwise, as it sees fit, sub-committees for special purposes and also to provide for setting up of Advisory Boards as it may from time to time determine. 1.2 The purpose of these policies and procedures is to assist the operation of the Club Rugby Sub- Committee (CRSC) of the Rugby Board. 2. Objective 2.1 The objective of the CRSC is to administer and determine policy on all senior club rugby so as to contribute to the vision statement in the WRFU strategic plan - Providing great Rugby experiences 3. Club Rugby Subcommittee & WRFU Management Responsibilities 3.1 The responsibilities delegated to the CRSC are: a. Recommending to the Rugby Board the format for all grade competitions, including fixture lists, semi-finals and finals b. Control of transfers, re-grades and other applicable By-laws. c. Special issues that arise from time to time. 3.2 The responsibilities delegated to the CRSC, but performed by the WRFU CRA are: a. Overall responsibility for the draw, including ground allocations and match times, of all grades b. Assessment of grounds and facilities c. Cancellations and defaults d. Pre-season and post-season competitions e. Approval of Club Team Sponsors 4. Method of Operation 4.1 The CRSC will set operating policy, procedures and guidelines with the administration of these being undertaken to the maximum extent practical by the WRFU CRA under the leadership of the CRM. The Committee will meet on a regular basis to review activities and where necessary revise policies or procedures and guidelines. The Committee will provide regular reporting to the Rugby Board. Page 59

60 5. Specific tasks and timelines 5.1 Prior to the commencement of the playing season the CRM or delegated staff member will provide the CRSC with a draft plan for the season. The plan will include a schedule of the key events and activities together with the responsibility for actions as well as timings. Once approved by the CRSC the operational plan will come into effect and become the basis for the season's activities. The operation of the plan will be subject to regular review by the CRSC. 6. Grade Competitions 6.1 Competitions outside the Premier and Premier Reserve competitions shall be structured to utilise the maximum number of playing days available. The objective is to provide rugby every Saturday, commencing at least as early as the first Saturday in April and concluding the last Saturday in August; as defined in the operational plan and in consultation with Club Captains. Non-competition (friendly) fixtures shall be provided where necessary. 6.2 The fixtures list will be structured into grades and divisions to accommodate all teams entered by Clubs, provide teams with even matches and competition, and strictly conform to the Union's Bylaws. Where possible, the minimum number of teams per grade or division shall be 8 subject to grade entries. 6.3 As far as practical matches will be allocated to provide teams with an equal number of home and away games. Where games are transferred away from the scheduled ground, priority is given to provide the maximum amount of rugby as possible. This may result in neutral venues. 6.4 The first team of every club should be drawn to play at the late time slot when playing at home. 6.5 In order to provide 'back-up' for first teams, priority will be given to playing the Club's next most senior team or back-up team in an early game as near as possible to the first team's match. 6.6 Where possible all Clubs will have at least one third of their number of teams playing at home every weekend. 6.7 Every attempt will be made to match as many teams in one club against teams in the same opposition club on any one playing day. 6.8 Subject to circumstances the second round-robin of competition shall not commence until every team has played each other in the first round-robin. 6.9 The playing of 'double-headers' i.e. playing Saturday and Monday of the same weekend will only take place as a matter of last resort i.e. where there is no practical alternative Page 60

61 6.10 Generally games will be scheduled at 11.30am for Women's rugby and 1:00 p.m. and 2.45 p.m. for men's rugby. Friday night rugby is available for all grades, particularly; Age Grade, Women, U85, and Reserve grades Subject to season structures the following grades will have promotion/relegation between divisions at the completion of the first round; a. Age Grade b. First Grade c. 85kg Restricted d. Reserve Grade The promotion / relegation process will depend on each grade structure, but will generally consist of the top one or more teams in all divisions being promoted to the division immediately above and the bottom one or more teams in all divisions being relegated to the division immediately below. The CRSC can allow teams eligible for promotion the option of remaining in a lower grade, but this must be specifically included in the WRFU Competition Rules. Should a team not wish to take the promotion, no lower ranked team will be promoted Subject to season structures it is intended that all grades other than Presidents Grade will have semifinals and finals dependant on the season structure and available weeks. Semi-finals will be in the form of 1st v 4th and 2nd v 3rd. The winner of each match will proceed into the final The CRA is responsible for the production of the weekly draw Should any team withdraw from the competition, either by decision of the team or through actions of the Rugby Board, then as outlined in Bylaw 5.4 any matches it may have played shall not be counted in that Club Championship round. 7. Assessment of Grounds and Facilities 7.1 The provision of grounds and facilities is generally the responsibility of the Wellington region s local Councils. It is expected that grounds will be marked out in accordance with the Laws of the Game, but reasonable tolerance or variation is allowed. In all cases changing and showering facilities should be provided available on any ground to be used for Rugby. 7.2 Under the Laws of the Game of Rugby Football, the playing enclosure is defined as the playing area and a space around it, not less than 5 metres where practicable. 7.3 In addition to ground markings, all grounds must be provided with goal post pads for safety reasons and should also be provided with touch flags. This equipment, along with flags, will be supplied by Page 61

62 WRFU and will display WRFU s sponsor s logo. Clubs cannot introduce other sponsors names to this equipment. 7.4 It is the responsibility of host clubs to set up pads and flags and other padding protecting fixed structures within the playing enclosure, and removed upon completion, for all matches. There are some grounds not in close proximity to club facilities or associated with any particular club. In such cases the home team in the first early game to be played on that ground that day is responsible for putting out the pads and flags. The weekly draw will identify the duty team, which is responsible for ensuring the equipment is returned to the storage facility after the match. 7.5 The below table sets out the WRFU s recommended expectations for grounds dependant on grade Grade Field Size Post Height Post Pad Type Technical Zones Required Artificial Turf Acceptable Sideline Management Policy Premier 120x70m 11m Removable Yes Yes Full SMP Premier Reserve 110x65m 8m Removable Yes Yes Full SMP Age Grade 110x65m 8m Removable No Yes None First Grade 110x65m 8m Removable No Yes None Women s 110x65m 8m Under 85kg Restricted 110x65m 8m Reserve Grade 100x65m 8m Presidents 100x65m 8m Removable or Permanent Removable or Permanent Removable or Permanent Removable or Permanent No Yes None No Yes None No Yes None No Yes None 7.6 In the case of Premier and Premier Reserve games there are additional minimum standards, which should be met. These are: Page 62

63 a. Under the Laws of the Game of Rugby Football, the playing enclosure is defined as the playing area and a reasonable area surrounding it (refer Law 1 Ground). b. Each Club must appoint a Ground Manager to ensure that this policy is adhered to by the club for the Premier and Premier Reserve home games on the premier ground. The Ground Manager must make himself / herself known to the match referees before the game. The Ground Manager must wear the WRFU Ground Managers vest which will be supplied. The Ground Manager is responsible for ensuring the field is set up in accordance with the relevant premier ground layout map. c. The playing enclosure for each match is to be fully cordoned off with rope or fence. d. Subject to clause 6, no person is permitted to enter the playing enclosure during a match, other than at halftime, except for: i. The playing XV from each team. (i.e., does not include reserves or substitutes) ii. iii. Match Officials Referee and two Assistant Referees Up to two people from each team who will administer first aid. Those individuals must be wearing the appropriate identifiable WRFU Medic vest. e. First Aiders are permitted to move around within the playing enclosure, but must remain well clear of the 1.5m assistant referee line. First Aiders are to have no interaction with assistant referees except in regards to assistance with injuries. f. Each playing team is permitted to have two people designated as water carriers. Those individuals must wear the appropriate identifiable WRFU Water vest, and may only enter the field of play when time off is signalled by the referee, or at halftime. At all other times the designated water carriers are to remain in their team s technical zone behind the rope/fence. g. All other persons connected with the playing teams who are not permitted in the playing enclosure must remain either behind the rope / fence in the marked technical zone, or alternatively behind the dead ball line rope / fence. The premier ground layouts attached outline the technical zone locations. h. Referees will be instructed that should this policy be breached during a match they are to stop the game until the breach is remedied. i. Any person who willfully breaches this policy and refuses to leave the playing enclosure when requested to do so will be reported to the Union by way of a complaint (WRFU Form 5) within 48 hours of the conclusion of the match. Page 63

64 j. Any such person reported to the Union will be dealt with in accordance with the New Zealand Rugby Rules for Disciplinary Hearings. k. Clubs whose players or support personnel breach this policy will incur the following penalties: i. First infringement will result in a first written warning from the WRFU CRA. ii. iii. iv. Second infringement will result in a second written warning from the WRFU CRA. The third infringement will incur a loss of two (2) competition points Any subsequent infringements will incur a loss of four (4) competition points. 7.7 Matches must be played at the ground allocated on the draw unless otherwise agreed by the two clubs involved and the CRA in consultation with the relevant local council. This applies particularly when games are transferred due to weather or ground conditions. 7.8 Clubs are responsible for ensuring all fields, clubrooms and changing areas have appropriate emergency access, and that the access ways are kept clear. In addition, clubs are also responsible for appropriately maintaining and fully stocking a first aid kit. 8. Cancellations, transfers, regrades and policy considerations. 8.1 The process of transfers and regrades shall be administered by the Club Rugby Administrator and the CRSC in accordance with the By-Laws of the WRFU. 8.2 The closure of grounds is at the sole discretion of the relevant local council. When grounds are closed or usage is restricted by a council, matches will be reallocated by the CRA. When weather or ground conditions make it necessary to cancel matches the objective will be to minimise disruption to the Premier competition and spread the effects of cancellations equitably. To this end available grounds will be allocated based on the Grade Hierarchy, found in the WRFU By-Laws. 8.3 Where two teams are unable to play a scheduled match because of circumstances beyond their control, WRFU Bylaw 4.3 will apply. 8.4 The CRSC will consider regrade requests provided they are submitted on the required WRFU Form and under the directions as set out in the Bylaws. The CRSC Regrade Committee will consider these requests and reserves the right to deny an application based on the supply of insufficient information. 8.5 The Regrade Committee will consist of 3 members of the CRSC (and will involve all members of the CRSC on a rotation basis). Page 64

65 8.6 To satisfy the requirements of the CRSC Regrade Committee, a regrade request (WRFU Form 3) must include the following information and be submitted 48 hours prior to the match kicking off. Any application received after this time will not be dealt with until the following week. a. Only one player per form. b. The form must include all rugby played by that player during the previous 6 weeks, including appearances (starting or off the reserves bench) for any team, and the approximate length of time played in each of those weeks. c. Full description of the reasons for the request. For example, if it is due to selection, those players who have been selected ahead of the player requesting the regrade must be named. Likewise if it is due to injuries, the club must name the injured players and the injuries. d. The form must be signed by a Club official. The CRSC and CRA will keep and update a record of all requests for regrades, whether approved or denied, to ensure consistency and precedence are adhered to during the course of a season. 9. Player Dispensations 9.1 The CRSC will consider dispensation requests provided they are submitted on the required WRFU Form and under the directions as set out in the Bylaws. The CRSC Dispensation Committee will consider these requests and reserves the right to deny an application based on the supply of insufficient information. 9.2 The Dispensation Committee will consist of 3 members of the CRSC (and will involve all members of the CRSC on a rotation basis). 9.3 To satisfy the requirements of the CRSC Regrade Committee, a dispensation request (WRFU Form 4) must include the following information and be submitted 48 hours prior to the match kicking off. Any application received after this time will not be dealt with until the following week. a. Only one player per form. b. The form must include previous playing history (if any); c. Detailed reasons for the request. For example, if it is due to selection or non selection, the players who have been selected ahead of the player must be named. If it is due to injuries, the form must include the name/s of the injured players and the injuries d. The form must be signed by a Club official. The CRSC and CRA will keep and update a record of all requests for regrades, whether approved or denied, to ensure consistency and precedence are adhered to during the course of a season. Page 65

66 10. Registration number of players per team 10.1 At the CRSC meeting in April each year the Club Rugby Subcommittee will be provided with a list of registrations to each club and to each team Teams are required to have a minimum of 18 registrations The following day the WRFU CRA will send letters out to clubs who have teams too few players against their name to inform them that they have until the following CRSC meeting, in May, to register sufficient players to the relevant team(s) Regular communication with clubs by the WRFU will follow to track the process of these registrations If, come the CRSC meeting in May, a team does not have the required number of players registered to them then they will be removed from the relevant competition. 11. Under 85kg Restricted Policy 11.1 Clubs must provide all registered Under 85kg teams with a set of scales Clubs must adhere to the following pre-match weigh in procedure: a. It will be the duty of the home team for every game (if no team clearly at home then the team listed first in the draw) to bring their set of scales to the match venue. b. If the home team does not have their set of scales then the away teams can be used. However, failure to produce your scales can result in a default on the part of the home team. c. Team Managers will be required to weigh the opposition before the start of the match on and note the weights of the players on the WRFU Team Sheet (WRFU Form 2). All players must weigh in wearing full playing gear, including but not limited to; boots, socks, shorts and jersey. d. The reading on the scales provided will be the final word on the weight, no discussion can be entered into. If a player is over 84.9kg they cannot play on that day. e. If a player who has been weighed out by the opposition does play then the game can be the subject of a protest. f. Players can only be weighed in pre-match or, in situations where a player has arrived after kick-off, during halftime. Page 66

67 g. Should any team not be able to supply the required number of suitably trained and experienced front row players as outlined in the WRFU By-laws (4.4), the team will be required to default the game Overweight Players: a. Players found to be over the maximum weight of 84.9kgs are not permitted to take any part in the game. Overweight players will be informed to change out of their playing gear so there is no chance of the player taking the field as a substitute during the game. b. No mutual agreement between the management or the captains of both teams will be accepted to allow overweight players to play in any game, even if required to provide the necessary number of front row players. 12. General 12.1 These policies and procedures set out the broad basis on which the CRSC will operate. Generally, the policies and procedures are administered by the WRFU CRA. Where the application of the policies and procedures results in dispute and the CRA seeks help in resolving the issue, he will involve a minimum of two members of the CRSC including the Chairman if available The policies and procedures will generally apply but from time to time circumstances will arise which may call for some variation and this is to be expected These policies and procedures are in every case subordinate to the By-Laws of the WRFU and are subject to amendment from time to time. 13. Tournaments: 13.1 All WRFU tournaments are to be played in accordance with the tournament rules relevant to the specific tournament and in accordance with the WRFU Bylaws, particularly Bylaw WRFU tournament rules are outlined below. These may change as the Tournament Director sees fit according to the relevant tournament/s. Page 67

68 13.3 Seven a side Tournament Rules All matches shall be played according to the World Rugby (WR) By-Laws, Regulations and Laws of the Game with Seven-a-side variations as framed by WR. The overall winner of the Series will be determined by the team with the most Series points as set out below: Pool Play Should teams draw in Pool play the result will stand - 1. If on completion of the pool matches, two or more teams in their respective pools have the same aggregate number of points, the result will be determined in accordance with the following sequence: a) The winner of the match already played between the teams involved shall have the higher standing. b) If the teams concerned had drawn the match indicated, the team which had scored the most tries in the pool shall have the higher standing. c) The team which has the highest difference of points for minus points against in their pool matches shall have the higher standing. d) When there is still a tie, the higher standing team will be declared by the toss of a coin. 2. If on completion of the pool matches, where teams play cross pool matches (i.e. don t play any team listed in their pool), two or more teams in their respective pools have the same aggregate number of points, the result will be determined in accordance with the following sequence: a) the team which had scored the most tries in the pool shall have the higher standing. b) The team which has the highest difference of points for minus points against in their pool matches shall have the higher standing. c) When there is still a tie, the higher standing team will be declared by the toss of a coin. Quarter/Semi Final Play 1. Should teams draw in Quarter Finals or Semi Finals, the winner shall be the team that scores the most tries. 2. If the above is equal the winner shall be determined by which team scored the first try. 3. If no tries are scored the winner will be determined by the toss of a coin. Final 1. Should teams be drawn at the conclusion of normal play (20 minutes) an extra time period of Golden Point will be played, consisting of 2 x 5 minute spells. The team that scores first in this period of play will be deemed the winner. Page 68

69 Tournament Squads All teams will be entitled to have the following squads in attendance at Series Tournaments: 1. up to 12 players; 2. Registration maybe required depending on the tournament. For clarification check the Tournament Rules sent by the WRFU Club Rugby Administrator for the specific tournament. 3. A player may only play for one team during the tournament (subject to rule (2) under substitutions. 4. Teams are reminded to ensure that all team members are within the Sub Bench Area. Substitutions 1. A player may be replaced on account of injury or substituted. In any given game, no more than 5 players in each team may be replaced or substituted. A player who has been replaced (for injury or sub) may not resume playing in the match except as a blood bin replacement. 2. A team that is unable to field 7 players and have 5 reserves (because of injury or illness) may borrow players/reserves from teams that have already been eliminated from the competition. A player once borrowed cannot play for any other team in the tournament and must remain with the new team. The approval of the WRFU Tournament Director must be obtained before a borrowed player can play. 3. A player who had been replaced by a player from an eliminated team cannot take any further part in the tournament. 4. If fit to play, a team s nominated players must play before players borrowed from eliminated teams can be used. Only players named in any team s team sheet will be eligible to take part in the tournament as a replacement player. Referees 1. Where Assistant Referees are officially appointed Law 6B(6) applies in relation to their reporting foul play and misconduct to the referee for the match. 2. Referees will strictly enforce Law 10(2) and particularly 10(2)(b) regarding voluntarily wasting time. Declaration of Squad 1. The team manager shall be required to submit a squad (max 12 players) for the tournament. The squad including shirt numbers shall be submitted no later than 12:00pm on the day before the tournament 2. At half-time of the prior match the Team Managers or nominated representative will be present at the coin which will be done at the control tent 3. Teams will be required to enter onto the field together. This will require teams to be next to the appropriate field 3 minutes before their kick off time. Substitutes and coaches can from here go directly to the sub bench. 4. Players must retain the same shirt number throughout the Tournament Page 69

70 Disciplinary A disciplinary panel will be available to hear immediately following the match, any disciplinary matters arising from a player or players sent from the field of play during a match. This panel will consist of 2 x WRFU officials and the Tournament Director or his nominee, their decision will be final. In the event the disciplinary panel deems the matter worthy, the hearing can be postponed until the following week, and dealt with by the full WRFU Judicial committee. In this event the individual must not take any further part in the tournament, and cannot be replaced. 1. A player sent off for a breach of the laws will be dealt with under the usual WRFU Disciplinary Procedures. 2. Players sent off will not be permitted to take any further part in the tournament, until a hearing is held. 3. A match called off will result in both teams not being permitted to take any further part in the tournament. The matter will then be immediately referred to the WRFU Disciplinary Committee. 4. A yellow card offence will result in the player spending 2 minutes in the Sin Bin. 5. In the event of any dispute arising as to the meaning or interpretation of these regulations, or any contingency arising not covered by the regulations a ruling shall be given by the Tournament Director and that ruling shall be final. 6. The Tournament Director reserves the right to refer a dispute to the Club Rugby Subcommittee (CRSC) to be handled at a later time or date if circumstances warrant it. General 1. Each team is required to send at least one representative to the Managers meeting to be held at the ground at 8:15am. 2. All teams are to supply their own LESLIE match balls and medical assistance. 3. Conversions may be taken from the other side of the goal posts if scored in front of the posts. 4. The Men s Cup final will consist of 10 minutes each way (20 minutes overall). All other finals will consist of 7 minutes each way (14 minutes overall). 5. Points will be awarded as follows: 4 Points for a win, 1 bonus point for 4 tries or more 1 bonus point for finishing within 7 points 2 Points for a draw Page 70

71 13.4 Ten a side Tournament Rules The tournament: 1. Team sheets with the names of management and no more than 15 players must be sent to the Tournament Director by midday of the Friday before the Tournament. 2. Teams in all matches should be ready to take the field 5 minutes before kick-off 3. Teams will be responsible for the supply of one Leslie rugby ball for use. 4. Teams are advised to arrive changed and ready to play due to limited changing facilities. It is also recommended that teams provide a tent for their own use. 5. Team Managers are to ensure that their teams are adequately supplied with water and are responsible for immediate first aid. 6. Referees are responsible for advising tournament headquarters of the results immediately after each game. 7. Clubs are advised that the conduct and control of their members and invited guests is their responsibility. The dispensing of alcoholic beverages and the possession of alcoholic products of competitors of WRFU sponsors is prohibited. 8. All players in the tournament must be eligible to represent their club in accordance with the By-Laws of the WRFU. Secondary School players may be included in the club teams provided they have not played club rugby for another club. 9. All decisions regarding the seeding and draws of teams are the sole responsibility of WRFU. 10. Clubs with more than one team in the tournament are required to have an alternative coloured set of playing jerseys available for use if two of their teams should play each other or another team with similar jerseys. The Rules: 1. The tournament will be played under the IRB Laws of the Game, i.e. 5 player scrums, normal methods of scoring, full sized field, replacement of injured players during a match. 2. Each team will comprise 15 players maximum, and management. Players must be declared at the start of the tournament. Once teams are declared there is to be no movement of players between teams, including those from the same club, except as per Rule In each pool match, four points will be awarded for a win, and two points for a draw. One bonus point will be awarded to team(s) scoring four or more tries in each match or losing by seven points or less. When there is a tie at full-time in round robin or playoff matches, no extra time will be played. The winner will be the first scorer of points in the match. If no points are scored, the result of the match will be decided by the toss of a coin. All matches will be 10 minutes each way, with a 2-minute interval. 4. If on completion of the pool matches, two or more teams in their respective pools have the same aggregate number of points, the result will be determined in accordance with the following sequence: Page 71

72 a. The winner of the match already played between the teams involved shall have the higher standing b. If the teams concerned had drawn the match indicated, the team which had scored the most tries in the pool shall have the higher standing c. The team which has the highest difference of points for minus points against in their pool matches shall have the higher standing d. When there is still a tie, the higher standing team will be declared by the toss of a coin 5. A player may be replaced on account of injury or substituted. In any given game, no more than 5 players in each team may be replaced or substituted. A player who has been replaced (for injury or sub) may not resume playing in the match except as a blood bin replacement. 6. A team that is unable to field 10 players and have five reserves (because of injury or illness) may borrow players/reserves from teams that have already been eliminated from the competition. A player once borrowed cannot play for any other team in the tournament and must remain with the new team. The approval of the WRFU Tournament Director must be obtained before a borrowed player can play. 7. A player who has been replaced by a player from an eliminated team cannot take any further part in the tournament. 8. If fit to play, a teams nominated players must play before players borrowed from eliminated teams can be used. Only players named in any team s team sheet will be eligible to take part in the tournament as a replacement player. Referees: 1. Where touch judges are officially appointed Law 6B(6) applies in relation to their reporting foul play and misconduct to the referee for the match. 2. Referees will strictly enforce Law 10(2) and particularly 10(2)(b) regarding voluntarily wasting time. Disciplinary and disputes: 1. A player sent off for a breach of the laws will be dealt with under the usual WRFU Disciplinary Procedures. Players sent off will not be permitted to take any further part in the tournament. 2. A match called off will result in both teams not being permitted to take any further part in the tournament. The matter will then be referred to the WRFU Disciplinary Committee. 3. A yellow card offence will result in the player spending 2 minutes in the Sin Bin. 4. In the event of any dispute arising as to the meaning or interpretation of these regulations, or any contingency arising not covered by the regulations a ruling shall be given by the Tournament Director and that ruling shall be final. 5. The Tournament Director reserves the right to refer a dispute to the CRSC to be handled at a later time or date if circumstances warrant it. Page 72

73 1. WELLINGTON RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION POLICY ON CLUB ALLOCATION OF ACADEMY PLAYERS As at February 2017 The aim of the club allocation process is to provide the individual Academy players with a supportive and positive learning environment in conjunction with the Academy Programme in developing the individual to his full potential. The following criteria will be used in deciding club allocation of academy players: 1. Existing affiliation to clubs before acceptance onto the academy programme, through: 1.1 Junior Club Membership - a minimum of 12 months (or one full season of rugby), as a player in the junior section of a club. 1.2 Family Connection - this should be a strong, clearly established and influential link to an immediate family member involved in a club. 1.3 Club-School Link - this should be a direct developmental relationship with the individual player(s) in the school, through the club via the RDO Programme; but also through the immersion of club resources within the school such as provision of coaches, team management and/or other volunteers. 1.4 Other additional supporting factors including: Sharing of facilities/resources between a club and college and player Unique factors, eg. Marist fraternity connection between the Marist rugby clubs and St Pats Town and Silverstream colleges. 2. The support structure offered by clubs to academy players. 2.1 Technical/tactical coaching expertise available at the club specific to the players playing position and individual needs. 2.2 The ability of the club to provide a positive, supportive and friendly environment for the player. 2.3 Player mentoring and support available within the club. 2.4 Off field support such as work placement, study/accommodation grants. (NB: these must fall within the WRFU Amateur Charter Regulations). 2.5 Host family support for academy players from outside the Wellington region. 3. The player s personal preference in terms of factors such as proximity of home/work/tertiary institute to the club; family considerations. 4. The player s usual playing position and the ability of the club to play the player in that position at the agreed level (NB: it may in some circumstances be better for a school leaver NOT to play premier rugby in their first year). The weighting of the criteria has been fixed, as follows: Clause 1 30% Clause 2 30% Clause 3 30% Clause 4 10% Wellington Rugby Football Union reserves the right to reallocate academy players during the term of their time in the WRFU Academy. Page 73

74 2. WELLINGTON RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION POLICY ON CLUB ALLOCATION OF PROVINCIAL UNION CONTRACTED PLAYERS As at February 2017 The aim of the club allocation process is to: Provide a fair and equitable distribution of contracted players within Wellington Club Rugby, over a period of at least five years. To create a starting point, allocations over the last 5 years will be taken into consideration. Ensure contracted players receive appropriate support from the club to allow them to develop to their full potential. The qualifying criteria for clubs to be considered for allocation of Wellington Rugby Football Union contracted players are: Clubs must be compliant with Wellington Rugby Football Union rules, regulations and constitutional requirements. Clubs must be signatory to the amateur code. Factors that will be taken into consideration in the allocation of contracted players are as follows: 1. The ability of the club to provide a positive, supportive, friendly environment 2. The need to achieve a competitive club competition and the promotion of club rugby in Wellington. 3. The opportunity for the player to assist in influencing and developing the club s players and assisting and raising the profile of rugby within the club and community. 4. The particular player needs of the club, in conjunction with the player s personal preference. 5. The player s usual playing position and the ability of the club to play the player in that position. Contracted players are contracted to Wellington Rugby and as such Wellington Rugby reserves the right to reallocate contracted players during the term of their contract. Contracted players will only require an allocation to a WRFU club if they don t already have an existing affiliation to a Wellington club. Page 74

75 3. WELLINGTON RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION COMMITTEE FOR CLUB ALLOCATION OF ACADEMY, PU CONTRACTED PLAYERS As at February 2017 The committee to make recommendations on the allocation of academy and contracted players shall consist of: The CEO Wellington Rugby Football Union The Coach of the Wellington NPC team The High Performance Manager or Academy Manager The Manager of Community Rugby WRFU Rugby Board representative rugby delegate* *Should there be a conflict of interest; the following position will substitute the Rugby Board delegate: Rugby Board Chairman, or WRFU Rugby Committee Chairman. Recommendations are provided for the information of the Wellington Rugby Football Union Rugby Committee. Page 75

76 4. WELLINGTON RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION POLICY ON CLUB REALLOCATION OF ACADEMY AND CONTRACTED PLAYERS As at February 2017 All Wellington Rugby Limited (WRL) academy and contracted players are allocated to Wellington Rugby Clubs based on the WRL Policy on allocation of academy and contracted players. It is envisaged that these players will remain at that club for the duration of their WRL contracts. If however, during the period of their WRL contract a player should wish to apply to WRL for consideration for reallocation to another club the following outlines this application process: The request needs to be in writing and addressed to: The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Wellington Rugby Limited. P O Box 7201 Wellington The request needs to be received by the above no later than 31 December in the year prior to which reallocation is being sought. The letter must outline in full the following: Current club and reasons why a move from that club is requested. Club or clubs, in order of priority, to which reallocation is sought Reasons why reallocation to this/these club(s) is requested Any other relevant information in support of the application. The club to which the player is currently allocated will be informed of the player s application for reallocation and be given the opportunity to discuss this with the player and the High Performance Manager and NPC Wellington Coach as required. The application will be considered and viewed in conjunction with the Wellington Rugby Football Union policy on academy and contracted player allocation. The application will be considered by the following committee for club allocation of academy and contracted players. That committee consists of: The CEO Wellington Rugby Football Union The Coach of the Wellington NPC team The High Performance Manager or Academy Manager The Manager of Community Rugby WRFU Rugby Board representative rugby delegate All recommendations of the above committee are provided for the information of the Wellington Rugby Football Union Rugby Committee. The player and club will be informed in writing of the outcome of the application by early February in the year for which reallocation is sought. NB: For Academy and contracted players, the Wellington Rugby Football Union reserves the right to reallocate a player when and where it believes it is in the best interests of the player and/or the Wellington Rugby Football Union. Page 76

77 5. PROTOCOLS INTO THE WELLINGTON RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION POLICY ON CLUB ALLOCATION OF ACADEMY PLAYERS As at February 2017 ACADEMY PLAYERS a) By the first week of November of each year, the WRFU Academy Manager will advise all clubs of the first year intake of players for the following year. Any players who have requested they fall under the Automatic Player Allocation will be identified at this time. Automatic Club Allocation Process The WRFU Academy Allocation Committee (as outlined in c) below) may take into consideration the automatic allocation of a player to a club if the following criteria can be met: The player has clearly stated in writing that their sole preference is the club seeking automatic allocation; and The player already has a significant and well-formed affiliation with the club concerned in respect of clauses 1.1 and/or 1.2 of the WRFU Policy on Club Allocation of Academy Players. The automatic allocations will be announced in early November to allow clubs to concentrate on applying for any remaining player. b) Club applications for players from the intake must be submitted to the Academy Manager by mid- November. The application to include a detailed plan of how the club will cater for the player s and WRFU needs in regard to the Six Pillars of Player Development Model, as outlined by the Academy Manager (see Appendix A). c) The Academy Manager will assess all applications, in conjunction with the following committee: The CEO Wellington Rugby Football Union The NPC Coach/High Performance Manager The Manager of Community Rugby Rugby Board representative rugby delegate d) The Academy Manager and the Manager of Community Rugby will meet with representatives of the preferred club before the end of November to determine the individual plan for the player/s concerned. e) The Academy Manager will confirm final allocation of players to clubs by the first week in December. This information will also be conveyed to the Rugby Board and WRFU Board for their reference. 1. CONTRACTED PLAYERS a) In late October/early November of each year, or as they become available, a list of newly contracted players will be announced for the forthcoming year. b) The following committee will consider this list of players for club allocation and provide recommendations to the Rugby Committee for their information: The CEO Wellington Rugby Football Union The High Performance Manager or Academy Manager Rugby Board representative rugby delegate The NPC Coach The Manager Community Rugby c) All clubs will be notified of the final allocations as soon as is practical. d) Wellington Rugby Football Union reserves the right to reallocate a contracted player during the term of their contract. Page 77

78 Appendix A Wellington Rugby Union Player Academy A partnership between schools, clubs and the Wellington Rugby Union High Performance Unit Aim: To instil best practice behaviours in our elite players through the six pillars of player development. The six pillars of player development are: 1. Technical. The ability to consistently execute the skills required under pressure. 2. Tactical. Understanding of the role within the team combined with game understanding and correct decision-making. 3. Physical. Conditioning the body to cope with the requirements of the game at an elite level. 4. Nutrition. Disciplined approach to fuelling the body to ensure it performs at it s optimum. 5. Mental. Preparing the mind to cope with professional sport both on and off the field. 6. Holistic. Assisting the players to achieve a life balance. The concept that good people make good elite rugby players. Schools, clubs and the Wellington Rugby Union must work in close partnership to ensure that the expectations, accountabilities and messages the players receive are consistent, thus developing a player who will make a real contribution to his club and to whichever Wellington representative team they are selected for. Page 78

79 6. WELLINGTON RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION POLICY ON COACH SELECTION PROCESS FOR AMATEUR REPRESENTATIVE TEAMS FROM DEVELOPMENT TEAM DOWN As at February 2017 The aim of the selection process is to provide a robust review and appointment process for all WRFU representative coaches (other than Wellington Lions), including feedback on their coaching and avenues of support and development. REVIEW PROCESS (November) 1. Completion of online survey by all members including management and players by early-november (or February for Sevens teams). 2. Completion of in-depth one-on-one performance reviews of each coach, to be managed by the WRFU Coach Development Manager. These will be conducted throughout the season. 3. De-brief interview conducted with each team coach by mid/late-november (or February for sevens teams). Rep Rugby Review panel shall consist of: WRFU CEO (at his discretion) WRFU Community Rugby Staff Member WRFU Rugby Board Rep Rugby Delegate WRFU BOD Rugby Committee Chair or Delegate WRFU High Performance Manager* *For Development Team/Under 19 reviews. 5. At completion of the review process, the panel should decide what appropriate action to take with each coach. 6. A report should be provided to each coach indicating strengths and areas to develop. (i.e. a personal development plan) by the WRFU Coach Development Manager. APPOINTMENT PROCESS (Early December) 1. Each coach is confirmed for a two-year term of appointment, subject to favourable review after the first year. 2. A coach may be reappointed for a further two-year term; however, at the completion of the second term, the Representative Rugby review panel has the discretion to reappoint coach(es) into representative teams. Page 79

80 1. Should a position be made vacant upon review, the position is to be advertised, and any placement of coaches must go through the normal application process. 2. These recommendations and any identified vacancies are reported to the WRFU Rugby Board. 3. Vacancies advertised and personal approaches made to targeted prospective coaches to apply. 4. Interview Panel is established, applicants short-listed by the Panel, interview schedule produced, interviews conducted, if considered necessary by the Panel. 5. All subsequent appointments are made in consultation with the WRFU Rugby Board. 6. Appointments made and letters of acknowledgement and thanks sent out, including meaningful feedback to unsuccessful applicants. INTERVIEW PROCESS Will consist of a review of the person s background and skill-set both in and out of rugby. Will involve and identify why the person seeks the role and their knowledge of the programme and what is involved. Will involve questions of a rugby specific nature (scenario) for the applicant to have the opportunity to show and present their rugby knowledge. Will involve a panel consisting of: WRFU CEO (at his discretion) WRFU Community Rugby Staff Member WRFU Rugby Board Rep Rugby Delegate WRFU BOD Rugby Committee Chair or Delegate Wellington High Performance Manager* *For Development Team/Under 19 appointments. Page 80

81 7. YOUTH PLAYER ELIGIBILITY POLICY INTO SENIOR/OPEN GRADE COMPETITIONS As at February 2017 A critical issue at the forefront of our game is the eligibility and suitability of youth players at a senior/open grade level. Instances of college players playing at this level of rugby have been encountered in the Wellington region in the past, with one notable case in recent years sustaining a serious neck injury. As the predominant number of players in this age bracket have a zero conditioning/training age, their vulnerability and risk against players with several years conditioning age and physical development on them is greatly heightened. WR guidelines suggest players under the age of 18 should not participate at a senior/open grade level of rugby, while NZR ensure that players under the age of 18 are not eligible to play NPC or Heartland Rugby. In view of the above, the following policy will apply with respect to youth players in senior/open club grade competitions within the WRFU: 1.1 Men s Premier, Premier Reserve, and First Grades (including Senior Open Club Sevens Tournaments) Any player under the age of 18 years is not eligible to participate, unless exceptional circumstances apply. Dispensation may be given for exceptional circumstances. Application to be assessed by the following panel: o o o o WRFU High Performance Manager WRFU Fitness Trainer WRFU Rugby Development Co-ordinator WRFU Rugby Board Member a. Criteria for Exceptional Circumstances When assessing an application, the following criteria will be considered: Representation at either/both national and/or provincial age grade level or overseas equivalent. Player s medical history. Player s conditioning programme/fitness test results. A panel member in either a game or full contact situation must view player. b. Guardian/Parent Consultation Consultation should be held with either the player s parent(s) or guardian(s) for any application for dispensation. c. Penalty Failure to comply with the eligibility criteria, as outlined above, will result in the offending team(s) default of the match and five WRFU CC points awarded to the opposing team. Page 81

82 1.2 Secondary School Players In the same calendar season, a player cannot be registered to play for both a WRFU senior club team and a secondary school team, unless the player has left secondary school. If that player is still playing for his secondary school, regardless of whether he has left school or not, he is ineligible to play for a WRFU senior club team. Any player still at secondary school who wishes to play for their senior club must seek the approval of the WRFU. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and are to be submitted to the Head of Community Rugby in the first instance. Requests will be assessed by: - Head of Community Rugby - High Performance Manager - Rugby Development Coordinator Manager - Sport Manager College Sport Wellington This in consultation with the school and club concerned. Page 82

83 8. FEMALE YOUTH PLAYER ELIGIBILITY POLICY INTO WOMENS GRADE COMPETITIONS As at February 2017 Due to the growth and success of the College Girls Rugby competition, including a vision for an Under 15 College grade, a critical issue at the forefront of our Female game is the eligibility and suitability of youth players in the Women s grade. Numbers of college players playing at this level of rugby have varied over the past years with no policy in place until As the predominant number of players in this age bracket have zero conditioning/training, their vulnerability and risk against players with several years conditioning and physical development on them is greatly heightened. This policy will apply with respect to female players aged Under 19 wishing to participate within the WRFU s Women s competitions and should be read in conjunction with NZR National Rugby Policy 8B Age to Play Senior Women s Rugby. 1.1 Any WRFU Women s Grade Subject to WRFU rights to withhold approval if a safety issue exists, A player must be at least 16 years of age as at the first WRFU CC match they are being selected for in order to participate in a senior women s rugby match then that player must obtain prior written approval from WRFU before they can participate in a senior women s rugby match; and If a player is a front row player and is Under 19 years of age as at the first match of the competition they are being selected for, then that player must obtain prior written approval from WRFU before they can participate in a senior women s rugby match; and If a player is a non-front row player and is under 18 years of age as at the first match of the competition they are being selected for, then that player must obtain prior written approval (using the approval form provided by NZR) from the Provincial Union before they can participate in a senior women s rugby match; and Players who are 15 years old or younger cannot play senior women s rugby; and A parent/guardian must sign an approval form (provided by NZR) before a player can participate in a senior women s rugby match. Applications for partipating in the WRFU Women s grade will be assessed by the following panel: WRFU High Performance Manager WRFU Fitness Trainer WRFU Rugby Development Manager (or their delegated nominee) WRFU Rugby Board Member When assessing an application, the following criteria will be considered: Representation at either/both national and/or provincial age grade level or overseas equivalent. Player s medical history. Player s conditioning programme/fitness test results. A panel member in either a game or full contact situation must view player. Parental/Guardian consultation Page 83

84 1.2 Secondary School Players In the same calendar season, a player cannot be registered to play for both a WRFU Senior Club team and a Secondary School team, unless approval is granted by WRFU for one of the following criterias: National rugby representation (e.g. Black Ferns or Black Ferns Sevens); or Senior Provincial representation (e.g. Wellington Pride, Wellington Women s Sevens); or On a case by case basis in line with National Rugby Policy 8B Any player still at secondary school who wishes to play for their senior club must seek the approval of the WRFU. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and are to be submitted to the Community Rugby Manager in the first instance. Requests will be assessed by: Head of Community Rugby (or their delegated nominee) Wellington Pride Head Coach Sport Manager College Sport Wellington This in consultation with the School and Club concerned. Penalty Failure to comply with the eligibility criteria in the WRFU Women s competitions, as outlined above, will result in the offending team/s default of the match and five WRFU CC points awarded to the opposing team. Page 84

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