HOME Rugby Answers Rugby COACHING Q&A

When can you rip the ball in U10s game?

I believe it's only when a maul and not 1 on 1 tackle. And what games can you play to demonstrate this?

Tristan TaylorCoach, England

5 answers

ANSWERS

Rugby CoachCoach

Cant rip the ball at any time sorry , WRU pathway states no mauling penalty against offending team .

Rugby CoachCoach

We play to new U10 rules in Derbyshire. we travel to yorkshire, chesire and Lancs and we believed that ripping was allowed at any stage of play whether 1 v 1 or mini maul but the player must pass the ball through the air once he/she has ripped it. Is this not the case?

Cirks Coach, England

Correct - ripping is allowed.

"b) Where the ball has been ripped from the ball carrier - attacker or defender -

the ball must be passed away from the contact area."

See http://www.rfu.com/managingrugby/~/media/files/2012/managingrugby/new_rules_of_play/under%2010.ashx

Rugby CoachCoach

sounds like a better idea ,heres a link to our pathway rules www.wru.co.uk/downloads/100849_Rugby_Pathway_Book.pdf.

Tristan TaylorCoach, England

Hi Adrian thanks for the info I am from Wales myself but coach in England now. I think the rules must be different for WRU. I believe ripping is allowed in England we have been victims of it in recent games turning over ball to the opposition. I just wanted to give my boys permission to do it back. Thanks Cirks looks like we need to encourage the guys to try and rip the ball and then pass it out. Thanks

JOIN SPORTPLAN FOR FREE

search our library of 1100+ rugby drills
create your own professional coaching plans
or access our tried and tested plans

Rugby

STAY CONNECTED

in more ways than one

sportplan_rugby

LATEST COACHING TRENDS

Offloading in Contact: Creating Second-Phase Opportunities

The offload is one of rugby's most devastating weapons when executed well, turning a defensive collision into a second-phase attacking opportunity. This article breaks down the technique, timing, and training progressions coaches need to develop confident offloaders at every level.

April 2026

Sportplan Coaching

Defensive Line Speed: How to Shut Down Space Before the Attack Begins

Defensive line speed is the single most important factor in shutting down attacking opportunities before they develop. This guide explores how to coach your defensive line to push up as a connected unit, communicate under pressure, and deny the opposition time and space.

April 2026

Sportplan Coaching