A record number of Primary Rugby League players (Under 6s to Under 11s) have participated in Rugby League throughout 2026, providing a huge boost to the sport.
Participation across these age groups has increased by more than 500 players during the year.
In 2026, 14,738 community club players have taken part in modified games designed to increase children’s motivation and involvement in the key skills of Rugby League, including passing, catching, evading, defending and scoring tries.
Smaller-sided games significantly increase skill opportunities, benefiting the development of all children and providing more chances to learn and enjoy the game.
Non-Contact Tag Rugby League at Under 8s and below is now firmly established, and these age groups have continued to see growth in player numbers. Tag Rugby League enables coaches to focus on developing core skills before tackle is introduced at Under 9s, providing a phased approach to learning and player development.
An integral part of the introduction to contact is ensuring all coaches attend a workshop that refreshes them on the key elements of coaching safe tackle technique. To date, more than 250 coaches have signed up for the RFL-led workshops taking place in November. This builds on the primary-age coach development programme delivered throughout the year, which has supported a further 200 coaches.
RFL National Development Manager David Raybould commented:
"Primary Rugby League is where most participants gain their first involvement in the sport, where they play in a fun, non-competitive environment, and where friendships and a lifelong association with the sport can be formed. To see this continued growth is fantastic and provides a solid foundation for the sport to grow in the future.
“A huge thanks goes to all those who have contributed to this growth: the league administrators, clubs, community coaches and volunteers up and down the country who give up so much of their time to provide positive Rugby League experiences for players."
To maintain this momentum throughout 2027, a series of Primary Rugby League workshops will be delivered by 20 community foundations, providing coaches with detailed insight into the new Play Their Way initiative. As the first sport to pledge its commitment, the RFL is leading the way in embedding child-first coaching through revamped Level 1 and Level 2 qualifications, alongside a split CPD offer that supports coaches delivering both tag and tackle Rugby League at this key age group.
