The Respect our Game weekend will emphasise the values inherent in our sport and their significance in fostering a fun and inclusive atmosphere for everyone.

Respect Our Game is a constant thread running through every level of rugby, from players, coaches, officials and supporters. It underpins how we play, coach, support, and represent our clubs. While respect is something we strive to uphold all season long, these four themed weekends are designed to highlight its importance and give clubs across the country the chance to celebrate and showcase what it truly means to respect our game.

Respect Our Game emphasises our core values and demonstrates the positive aspects of rugby both on and off the pitch. It provides an opportunity to show new members and the wider community how rugby can enrich our lives when it’s played in a respectful and safe environment.

This season, we’ll be celebrating specific themes across these key weekends:

February 6th–8th – Respect Our Volunteers/Officials

March 27th–29th – Respect Our Club/Community

April 26th – Energia AIL Finals Weekend, Respect Our Game

These dates are opportunities for clubs to highlight and celebrate different aspects of respect within the game.

Respect Our Game isn’t just a campaign, it’s a reminder of the values that bind our rugby community together. By embracing respect at every level, from minis rugby to senior matches – we ensure the game continues to thrive in the right spirit for generations to come.

Stephen Gore, IRFU Spirit of Rugby Projects Manager, said

“We are fortunate that there is a long tradition and culture of respect in rugby. We do not take for granted the importance of the role of match officials and volunteers in helping our sport to run smoothly and it is very important all these people are treated with the utmost respect. Weekends such as this help drive the Respect campaign and are essential in keeping our values thriving in our game and I am pleased we are working with all our clubs to deliver this important message.”

If any of our officials, members, or supporters are participating at games or training sessions this weekend (and, of course, in the future), please spare a moment to remember how important it is to value and respect our sport, regardless of the level at which they may be involved.