Use these checklists before every match to make sure nothing is forgotten. There is a checklist for players, one for parents bringing children to junior rugby, and a quick referee kit check so you always arrive compliant.

Player Match Day Checklist

Kit Bag

  • ☐ Match shirt (in club colours)
  • ☐ Match shorts
  • ☐ Rugby socks (long)
  • ☐ Rugby boots (correct studs for pitch conditions)
  • ☐ Mouthguard
  • ☐ Base layer (if cold weather)
  • ☐ Spare studs and stud key (screw-in studs players)
  • ☐ Strapping tape or pre-wrap (if you strap joints)
  • ☐ Post-match change of clothes and shoes

Food and Hydration

  • ☐ Water bottle (at least 750ml, full)
  • ☐ Pre-match snack (banana, energy bar or toast — 2 to 3 hours before kick-off)
  • ☐ Post-match recovery snack (protein + carb within 30 minutes of final whistle)

Warm-Up

  • ☐ Arrive at least 45 minutes before kick-off
  • ☐ Light jog and dynamic stretching
  • ☐ Passing and handling warm-up
  • ☐ Contact warm-up (under coaching staff direction)

Kit Compliance Check

  • ☐ No jewellery (rings, earrings, chains removed or taped)
  • ☐ Studs inspected — no sharp edges, correct shape
  • ☐ Headguard / shoulder pads carry World Rugby approval mark (if worn)
  • ☐ No external pockets or buckles on shorts

Junior Rugby Parent Checklist

Player Kit

  • ☐ Match shirt (in club colours)
  • ☐ Match shorts
  • ☐ Rugby socks
  • ☐ Rugby boots (moulded for most junior pitches)
  • ☐ Mouthguard — fitted and in a case
  • ☐ Headguard (if your child wears one)
  • ☐ Warm layer for touchline waiting (hoodie or jacket)

For the Parent

  • ☐ Warm coat or waterproof jacket
  • ☐ Wellies or waterproof footwear (pitches are often muddy)
  • ☐ Folding chair or camping stool
  • ☐ Hot drink in a thermos flask
  • ☐ Small first aid kit (plasters, antiseptic wipes)

After the Match

  • ☐ Dry change of clothes for your child
  • ☐ A bag for muddy boots and kit
  • ☐ Post-match snack for the journey home

Pre-Season Training Day Checklist

  • ☐ Training shorts and top
  • ☐ Rugby boots or trainers (check with coach)
  • ☐ Water bottle (large — pre-season sessions are hard)
  • ☐ Mouthguard (if contact drills are planned)
  • ☐ Base layer (early morning pre-season sessions can be cold)
  • ☐ Warm-up layer to remove when session starts
  • ☐ Snack for after the session

Cold Weather Match Day Additions

For matches in October through February, add these to the standard player checklist:

  • ☐ Long-sleeve base layer (Under Armour ColdGear or equivalent)
  • ☐ Thermal leggings under match shorts (backs and kickers particularly)
  • ☐ Training gloves for warm-up
  • ☐ Extra socks or thin thermal sock to layer under match socks
  • ☐ Warm hat and gloves for pre-match and half time

For kit buying recommendations, see the Rugby Clothing & Kit section. For a guide to what the rules say about kit compliance, see Match Day Kit.