Obviously we missed all of last year so have moved straight from u12 to u14 without playing any games. In order to prepare for next season in the hope, we will be playing more normally, for u14 what is the process for line outs in England. Do the side throwing in have to win it? What is meant by it being uncontested? Do the non-throwing side just have to stand and watch?
Before Covid, I refereed my Club’s U14 for a couple of seasons. Based on my experience I would make the following observations.
Firstly, this is about young players learning to develop new skills throwing in and catching the ball in the (uncontested) line out.
I learned very early on to brief players (and coaches) at the pre-match brief that they should stay 10 metres from the line out until it has ended i.e ball has left the lineout or side in possession has created a maul or a ruck.
I would manage by holding my arms up until the line out is over.
Unlike Colts or Senior rugby, I would stand at the back of the line out (on throwing inside). This enabled me to watch throw, catch and players breaking early through the line out or towards back line.
A Referee’s role is to apply relevant (variation) laws to manage and importanty maintain space so these youngsters can enjoy their rugby.
Hope this is of help to club referees and coaches.
