Mini’s

The coaches of Portlaoise RFC endeavour to maintain the ethos and core principles of minis Rugby by helping to develop players of all abilities in the game in a safe, friendly, non-competitive, and enjoyable environment. Portlaoise RFC Minis rugby is open to players aged from U7 to U12 years of age, the focus in training and games is to ensure progressive skill development for all participants in line with the IRFU long term player development pathway.

The Portlaoise RFC minis train from September to April and always welcome new players at any stage of season. Our aim is to offer a positive training and playing environment for your children. The advantages of playing minis Rugby are numerous, as well as the benefits to fitness and wellbeing, being part of a team also improves determination, resilience, social development, and self-confidence.

Come and visit any Saturday morning at Portlaoise RFC and see for yourself!

Mini-rugby teams are of mixed ability.

We do not stream or grade teams U7-U12 by ability. This is in accordance with IRFU Best Practice. It also provides the best environment at these age groups to ensure the maximum number of participants benefit from the training programme. Our approach is that winning is not everything, but trying your best is. We will not select teams specifically to win matches, but all players will be encouraged to play any individual match to the best of their ability within the laws of the game and in a spirit of good sportsmanship.

 Portlaoise RFC, like most sports clubs, is a voluntary club & cannot function without people giving up their time. As a club we are always very appreciative of any help & we would encourage members, players, parents etc to get involved whenever possible. The growth in numbers of children of all ages participating in the club is fantastic but it does mean that more parents need to get involved to ensure that we deliver on our aims to benefit our kids. There are many ways that you can help, and the more people that get involved the easier it is for everyone.