NSW Rugby Union (NSWRU) and Sydney Junior Rugby Union (SJRU) are aware of the matter that occurred on the weekend at Spring 7s match when an U11 player from Wests was not permitted to continue playing in compliance with the Rugby Australia Size for Age policy.
While it is not NSWRU or SJRU intention to prevent any player from participating in rugby, the player involved had been previously assessed in accordance with the policy and it was deemed he was required to compete in an older age division.
Despite several attempts to get in contact with all those involved, the matter was then required to be addressed at the competition in person.
We recognise that perhaps further attempts could have been taken to speak to all those involved; family, players and club; to minimise impact to the player, his team mates and the wider competition.
While the matter had tried to be addressed since the opening round of the competition, the miscommunication between all parties meant the matter had not been fully addressed.
NSWRU and SJRU have the best interest of all participants involved, the player, his team mates but more broadly all those playing the game.
The Rugby Australia Size for Age policy has successfully been in place, helping to ensure our game is enjoyed by all in a safe way.
We want to see the player involved stay part of our competition and we are continuing to work with the Club to ensure he and his family can stay involved.