Maintaining Standards and Respect Across the Game

As we enter the final stages of the season—with rearranged fixtures, weather-affected pitches, and cup competitions placing extra demands on clubs and volunteers, Hampshire RFU wishes to acknowledge the tremendous effort being made across the county to keep rugby being played.

However, alongside these pressures, we have also seen an increase in incidents of unauthorised individuals entering the playing enclosure and other instances of poor pitch-side behaviour.

In line with Rugby Football Union regulations, only match officials, players, and physios are permitted within the field-of-play and in-goal areas during a match. These restrictions exist for safety reasons and to protect the integrity and management of the game.

To help ensure rugby remains safe, fair, and enjoyable for all, the following behaviours are not permitted under RFU Regulations and Game-Management Protocols:

• Entry to the playing enclosure by spectators, non-playing coaches, or replacements not formally called onto the field
• Coaching staff leaving the designated technical area or walking the touchline during play
• Verbal abuse, dissent, or confrontation directed at match officials
• Derogatory, negative, or abusive comments towards players, coaches, or officials
• Use of offensive, intimidating, or inappropriate language
• Direct or indirect confrontation with match officials
• Raising concerns outside of official club channels

Everyone involved; players, coaches, volunteers, and spectators, shares responsibility for upholding the RFU Core Values (Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline, Sportsmanship).

While the closing stages of the season naturally bring intensity and emotion, there is no excuse for behaviour that undermines respect or safety. Rugby’s strength lies in the Values we live by and demonstrate, and we must ensure these remain visible at every level of the game.

Spectators and club members who witness inappropriate behaviour are encouraged, where appropriate, to report it to a club official so it can be addressed in accordance with RFU policy.

All reported incidents will be reviewed by the Hampshire RFU Disciplinary Committee, and sanctions will be applied where necessary.

Let’s finish the season positively, with teamwork, respect, and enjoyment at the heart of every match.

Hampshire RFU & HRR