Guidelines Review 2025
Many thanks to all of you who took part and submitted your feedback on the guidelines. We received 132 responses from 65 clubs. To give some context the areas that we sought your views on were as follows:
- Increasing the '1m try line tackle zone', to 2m .
- Playing a restricted set of 10 phases in possession before turnover - similar to the rule when playing touch rugby.
- Tightening the definition of 'walking'.
- Emphasising the non-contact nature of the game - ie no hand-off, leading with the shoulder.
Summary of the feedback
Refereeing
Half of respondents have experience refereeing Walking Rugby. There is a clear need for greater consistency, improved/more referee training, and enhanced support for referees. Key challenges include inconsistent rule enforcement, and poor player behaviour.
2 metre Try Line Rule
64% support changing the distance from 1 to 2 metres from the try line, citing increased space and safety. However, there are concerns about game flow, complexity, and practical implementation. Consistent communication, refereeing, and pitch markings are recommended. This proposed change will be incorporated into the revised guidelines.
10 Phase Rule
Only 25% support the introduction of a 10-phase rule. Most view it as unnecessarily complex, burdensome for referees, and potentially detrimental to the inclusive nature of the game. There was also confusion regarding what constitutes a "phase". This proposed change will not be incorporated into the revised guidelines.
Definition of Walking
There is strong support for explicitly excluding leaping, skipping, and hopping. Opinions vary on dragging feet and large strides, but most favour a simple rule (one foot on the ground) and referee discretion to maintain inclusivity and fairness.
Foul Play
Most agree that foul play rules are not always followed by players or consistently enforced by referees. Suggestions include clarifying guidelines, improving referee training, and reinforcing the non-contact ethos.
General Comments on Guidelines and Rule Changes
Many participants are satisfied with the current guidelines, emphasising their simplicity, enjoyment, and inclusivity. There is a preference for a single, standardised set of rules to reduce confusion. Concerns were raised about player dissent, with calls for greater respect for referees and stricter sanctions for misconduct.
A revised version of the guidelines will be put out by end January 2026.