Is Rugby Right for Your Child?

As the excitement of the Six Nations Championship comes to an end, it often leaves behind something powerful - a new generation of inspired young athletes.

Across schools, parks and grassroots’ clubs - children start picking up rugby balls and imagining themselves on the same pitch as their heroes.

For many parents though rugby can feel intimidating. The sport is physical and images of muddy kits, broken bones and cauliflower ears sometimes come to mind.

But talk to young players themselves and you often hear a very different story.

At Laceeze Defiance we asked our Brand Ambassadors what rugby means to them and how the sport helps build resilience both on and off the pitch.

Their responses highlight why rugby can help children develop confidence, determination and teamwork in ways that stay with them far beyond sport.

How Rugby Builds Resilience in Children

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to challenges and keep moving forward when things feel difficult.

Youth sport plays a big role in developing these skills and rugby is often highlighted because of its strong team culture and values.

Research into youth sport has shown that structured team activities can improve confidence, emotional regulation and problem-solving skills in children.

Studies published in the World Health Organisation and supported by youth development programmes from the Rugby Football Union, highlight that physical activity in childhood supports mental wellbeing, social connection and resilience.

But what makes rugby stand out is the culture of the game itself.

The Core Values of Rugby - TREDS

One of the reasons rugby builds resilience in young players is the strong values built into the sport.

These values are often known as TREDS

• Teamwork
• Respect
• Enjoyment
• Discipline
• Sportsmanship

These principles shape how the game is played and how players treat each other, both on and off the pitch.

Laceeze Defiance ambassador Joshua Robson (@fo.rest.10) shared his experience of these values in action.

Photo: @fo.rest.10

“Rugby builds resilience compared to other sports, as in rugby we have core values. These are teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship - also known as TREDS.

After every game our team makes a point of shaking hands with our opponents and the referee. Overall this shows our resilience, as we always follow the TREDS on and off the pitch.

Rugby has taught me to respect everyone because rugby is a game for all. No matter who you are, there is always a spot in rugby.

It has taught me to believe in myself in all areas of life. Believing in myself is a key aspect to building resilience and a growth mindset.”

For many parents these values are one of the first things they notice when their child joins a rugby club.

Learning to Keep Going When Things Are Tough

Resilience is not built when everything goes perfectly. It is built when young players face challenges and learn how to respond.

Rugby is full of those moments.

A dropped pass, a missed tackle or a tough match can test confidence. But the team environment encourages players to keep going and support each other.

Laceeze Defiance ambassador James Hildreth (@hildy.7) explains how rugby helps build mental strength.

Photo: @hildy.7

“Rugby is a tough sport physically and mentally, but it is a gentleman’s game which teaches great sportsmanship and discipline.

Rugby has taught me that you cannot give up just because something is hard. Sometimes tough hits and tackles set you back and can hurt. Passes can end up not going your way and allow the opposition to advance but you have to keep going for your team.

Rugby builds resilience because everyone relies on each other. Even if you make a mistake, your teammates back you and you keep going.”

This shared responsibility helps young players develop confidence, accountability and perseverance.

Why Rugby Can Be a Great Sport for Kids

One of the strengths of rugby is that it is a game for many different types of players.

Some children enjoy the physical challenge of tackling, while others thrive in strategic roles, such as passing positioning or supporting teammates.

Because rugby requires a variety of skills, children of different body types, abilities and personalities can all find a role in the team.

This inclusive structure often helps children feel valued and part of something bigger than themselves.

Breaking Stereotypes in Youth Rugby

For many girls, rugby is also a chance to challenge long-standing stereotypes about who the sport is for.

Laceeze Defiance ambassador Ella Fowler (@rugbygirlella) shared how rugby has helped foster a positive mindset and her confidence from a young age.

Photo: @rugbygirlella

“Rugby has taught me so much - from work ethic to teamwork - and it’s definitely helped shape the person I am today.

I think rugby builds resilience in lots of different ways. For me personally, as a female in rugby, it’s made me more resilient to adversity in what was, until very recently, a male-dominated sport.

Having played since I was four, I’ve experienced all kinds of opinions - both on and off the pitch - about whether I should even be playing!

On the pitch you build confidence through moments like making a big hit, getting over the line, or executing a successful pass. All of those things really build self-belief.”

A Sense of Belonging

One message comes through clearly from the Laceeze Defiance community: rugby gives young players a powerful sense of belonging. That feeling makes the knocks, bruises and tough defeats worthwhile.

Instead of worrying about fitting in or endlessly scrolling on social media, these rugby kids are focused on match-day performance, strength, nutrition and building a winning mindset.

Stories like James’, Joshua’s and Ella’s show how sport can empower young athletes - helping them develop confidence, resilience and independence that lasts far beyond the pitch.

Is Rugby the Right Sport for Your Child?

Every child connects with sport in different ways but rugby can be a fantastic choice for children who enjoy teamwork physical activity and shared goals.

Grassroots rugby clubs across the UK focus heavily on safe coaching, supportive environments and helping young players build confidence step by step.

For many children the biggest rewards are not just the matches themselves, but the friendships teamwork and life lessons they gain along the way.

Join the Grassroots Rugby Conversation

At Laceeze Defiance we are proud to support a growing community of parents, coaches and young athletes who see the benefits of sport every week.

We would love to hear from you.

• Has rugby helped your child build confidence?
• What life lessons has your child learned through sport?
• Coaches and parents - what changes have you seen in young players over time?

Share your thoughts in the comments below or email charlotte@laceeze.co.uk with your feedback.