Foothills Lions Rugby is proud to have established one of the strongest youth programs in Alberta. The Lions youth program now includes U-7 and U-11 mixed, and U-13, U-15 and U-17 boys divisions. Our mini’s program is thriving, which allows boys and girls ages 4 to 11 years of age to learn and explore the sport of Rugby in a fun first environment.

As Parents we never want to put our children into an unsafe situation.  The sport of rugby constantly raises the question of safety for players.  As a club we pride our selves on taking safety measures through training and education for our players to keep themselves and others safe. You can always discuss any concerns with your coach or by contacting us through email, but please take the time to research and ask questions in order to make and educated decision.

Is rugby a safe sport for America’s youth?

Click here to read the article by Lyle J. Micheli, MD

Minis U‐4 to U‐11

This is a unique opportunity for girls and boys ages 4 to 11 years of age to be introduced into the Rugby community and the incredible sport of rugby. We promote full parent involvement to ensure that the kids become comfortable and confident when interacting with other kids in an active environment

Our goals for the Mini’s U4‐U11 program are to promote:

• Exercise
• Fun Social
• Interaction

U‐13 Boys

Our U‐13 division includes boy’s who are 11 to 13 years of age. At this level they play modified Rugby rules, although it is full contact and full tackle. Modified rugby rules are implemented for the player’s safety and the coaches and players can focus on the basic development and skills of the game.

Our goals for the U‐13 program are to promote:

• Exercise
• Fun
• Social Interaction
• Learn and Understand Rugby Skills

U‐15 Boys

The U‐15 division includes boys who are 13 to 15 years of age. This division is full contact, but there are still some rule modifications sot ensure safety. Players will begin learning how to incorporate rugby skills into the “team” aspect of the game. Coaches will start teaching offensive and defensive team tactics.

Our goals for the U‐15 program are to promote:

• Exercise
• Fun
• Social Interaction
• Individual Skills
• Introduction to team play on offensive and defensive

U‐17 Boys

The U‐17 division includes boy’s 15 to 17 years of age. The only rule modification at this level is a slightly shorter game than regulation rugby games. The majority of players have had some rugby experience by this age group. Players will be coached in all aspects of rugby including individual and team skills. The intensity does increase at this stage; as the boys are becoming young men and it is important encourage them to their full potential of the game.

Our goals for the U‐17 program are to promote:

• Fun
• Exercise
• Social Interaction
• Individual Skills
• Team play on offensive and defensive
• Rugby rules and how they affect the game‐play

**Representative Rugby is available in Calgary Alberta, Canada for high caliber players for U‐15, U‐17**