Playing for HOBM
Discover what it's like to be part of the Eagles family, from their first Rippa game to taking the field in tackle rugby.
Welcome to The Eagles Family
Joining Hutt Old Boys Marist means more than just playing Saturday morning sport. It's about joining a community where building character, building confidence, and enjoying the game are at the core of everything we do. We are committed to providing a guided, safe, and wildly fun experience for both players and parents.
The Rugby Pathway
We follow New Zealand Rugby guidelines to ensure children develop their skills safely at their own pace, playing with their school peers.
Nursery & Rippa (U5 to Year 2)
Our youngest Eagles start safely with non-contact rugby. Nursery (U5 'Lil Ruggaz') focuses purely on fun, coordination, and basic ball skills. From Year 0 to Year 2, kids play Rippa Rugby—a fast, flag-based game that teaches core passing, running, and evasion skills without the pressure of contact.
The Transition to Tackle (Year 3 & 4)
At Year 3 (Under 8), players are introduced to contact elements. This is a carefully managed transition. Every player moving into Year 3 must attend a mandatory club Tackle Clinic to learn safe falling and tackling techniques before the season starts. For kids and parents who prefer to stay non-contact, WRFU offers dedicated Rippa options so players never feel forced into contact before they are ready.
Full Tackle Grades (Year 5 to 8)
From Year 5 onwards, players engage in full tackle grades. By keeping children grouped in school-year bands rather than historical weight limits, they get to play alongside their friends. Our coaches put a massive emphasis on safety, correct technique, and the 'FABS' principle (Fun, Achieve, Belong, Safe).
What to Expect: The Day-to-Day
A quick guide for parents on how our seasons operate.
Registration Process
Registrations are entirely online via the standard Rugby Xplorer App. Search 'Hutt Old Boys Marist Junior' to find us and link your child's profile.
Gear & Equipment
We supply the playing jerseys (issued to teams for the season). Parents only need to supply HOBM green shorts, club socks (available at NZ Uniforms), boots, and a mandatory mouthguard.
Fees & Subscriptions
Our subs are kept as affordable as possible to cover essential gear and field maintenance. We offer discounted rates for siblings, and our Treasurer is always available to set up confidential payment plans if needed.
Training Expectations
All our junior practices are held at the Hutt Recreation Ground on Myrtle Street. Days and times are coordinated by your individual team coaches based on grade requirements.
Game Days & Cancellations
Games are traditionally on Saturday mornings. Every child is guaranteed at least half a game, and we rigidly apply WRFU's 35-point differential rule to keep matches competitive. If weather turns extreme, cancellations are generally published via the WRFU app and our Club Facebook page by 7:30 AM.
Why Choose HOBM?
We heavily invest in our junior programs to create an unforgettable environment.
Rich Heritage
Since our foundation, HOBM has carried decades of pride within the Hutt Valley. The friendships formed in junior rugby often last a lifetime, supported by a club culture of giving back.
Inclusive Environment
Through our dedicated Junior Girls Rugby programs and our commitment to ensuring all skill levels get equal opportunity, we ensure every child knows they belong.
Clear Pathways
We offer a direct developmental pathway right up through our College connections into our Premier Men and Women grades. When you join the Eagles, you have a home for your entire rugby career.
Safety & Welfare
Your child's safety is our absolute, non-negotiable priority on and off the field.
- No Mouthguard, No Play: Strictly enforced across all tackle grades for games and practices.
- Concussion Protocol: 'If in doubt, sit them out.' We strictly follow NZ Rugby's structured return-to-play stand-down periods for any suspected head injuries.
- Mandatory Tackle Clinics assure correct body position and safe contact techniques for developing kids.
- Comprehensive vetting and ongoing educational support for our volunteer coaches and managers aligned with the NZ Rugby Child Protection Policy.
- Sideline Conduct: We strictly enforce the NZ Rugby APPLAUD code. Positive, abuse-free sideline behavior is required from all parents and supporters.
