Dartmouth PigDogs RFC

Youth Rugby

A fun, welcoming introduction to rugby where kids build confidence, friendships, and a love for sport while learning the game step by step.

Ages & Stages

U4–U20

Programs are offered in age-appropriate stages, from first introductions to junior rugby.

Location

Ira Settle

Youth practices are based at Ira Settle Sports Field in Dartmouth.

Safe Progression

Learn Step by Step

Players build confidence through fun, structured development before moving into more advanced stages.

How Parents Register

We keep registration simple. The website gives you the information you need, and the registration platform handles current program options, pricing, and sign-up details.

Choose Registration

Click through to our registration page to find the current youth rugby options for your child’s stage and program.

Complete Player Details

Enter your child’s information, review the available registration choices, and complete the registration process through PlayHQ.

Watch for Club Updates

After registering, families should watch for communication about practice details, group updates, schedules, and next steps from the club.

We keep pricing, current registration categories, and season-specific setup on the registration platform so this page can stay clear, evergreen, and easier for families to use.

Cost Support & Funding

We never want cost to be the reason a child misses out on rugby. If your family needs help with registration or equipment costs, these programs may be able to help.

KidSport

KidSport helps eligible families with youth sport costs so more children can participate.

Support may be available for registration costs
Equipment support may also be available
Applications are completed directly through KidSport

Apply Through KidSport

Jumpstart

Jumpstart helps remove financial barriers so more children can access sport and recreation.

Support may be available for registration costs
Equipment support may also be available
Applications are completed directly through Jumpstart

Apply Through Jumpstart

If your family has questions about getting started and needs support, please reach out to the club and we will do our best to help point you in the right direction.

The Youth Rugby Pathway

Players build confidence step by step, starting with fun and movement, then growing into skill, game understanding, and competition.

Step 1

Mini Rugby

Movement, fun, teamwork, and a great first sports experience.

Step 2

Flag Rugby

Non-contact rugby focused on passing, running, and teamwork.

Step 3

Intro to Contact

Safe progression with technique, confidence, and coaching first.

Step 4

Junior Rugby

Greater game understanding, structured play, and competition.

Step 5

Club Pathway

Players continue developing toward older youth and club rugby.

Parent Information

The practical details families usually need before getting started.

What Should My Child Bring?

Water bottle
Weather-appropriate clothing
Cleats for field use
Sunscreen as needed
Mouthguard for intro-to-contact and contact groups

Where Are Practices?

Youth practices are held at Ira Settle Sports Field, 8 Valleyford Avenue, Dartmouth.

Do Parents Stay at Practice?

For younger players, especially children under 12, parents or guardians should remain at the field during practice.

How Will We Hear About Changes?

Families receive updates through the club’s communication channels, including email, WhatsApp, social media, and the club schedule page.

Player Protection Partner

Bridgeview Dental Mouth Guards

Bridgeview Dental is offering 50% off custom-fit mouth guards for PigDogs players. Every player should be protected.

Custom Fit 50% Off Protection First

Get Mouth Guard Details

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Custom Mouth Guards

Is Rugby Safe?

For many families, youth rugby is a brand-new sport. That is normal. Our program is built around age-appropriate progression, learning, and confidence.

Children start at the stage that fits their age and development
Early programs focus on fun, movement, and non-contact play
Contact is introduced progressively, with technique and safety taught first
Players build comfort and confidence before more advanced phases of the game
Coaching is designed to help children learn in a supportive environment

Why Rugby Is Great for Kids

Rugby gives children more than a sport. It helps them build confidence, friendships, resilience, and a strong sense of belonging.

Builds teamwork and communication
Encourages confidence and self-belief
Develops agility, coordination, and movement
Creates friendships and club community
Welcomes a wide range of athletic backgrounds and experience levels

Latest Youth Updates

Stay up to date with upcoming youth events and key club activities for families.

Countdown to First Practice

The youth rugby season is almost here.

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Upcoming

Registration Night

Meet coaches, ask questions, and get help with youth registration.

Details

Community

Welcome Family BBQ

A relaxed club event for new and returning families before the season begins.

Details

Season Start

First Practice

The youth rugby season begins. Watch club communications for updates.

Schedule

Year-Round Youth Programs

Keep the fun going beyond the main season with our fall and winter youth rugby sessions. These programs help players stay active, build confidence, and stay connected to the club.