HIGHLANDERS RUGBY WAVIER
Highlanders Rugby, in partnership with USA Rugby, is a youth-serving nonprofit organization dedicated to providing growth and development opportunities in rugby union. The Academy adheres to World Rugby’s Core Values: integrity, respect, solidarity, passion, and discipline.
Participation in Highlanders Rugby programs is subject to the following rules and procedures. Violations of this Code of Conduct will be addressed by the programs Disciplinary Committee and may result in dismissal from the program, along with an official report filed with USA Rugby. The Programs leadership and coaching staff will enforce all disciplinary actions. Violations may result in suspension or dismissal without appeal or refund.
Upon registration, all players, parents, and teams agree to the following:
Player Code of Conduct
As a participant, I understand that I represent my team, NC Rugby Academy, and USA Rugby. I agree to:
- Demonstrate responsible behavior at all times, on and off the field.
- Avoid antisocial or dangerous behavior, including dirty play or abuse (verbal or physical) toward anyone involved in the game.
- Respect referees and officials at all times; I will not insult, threaten, or act provocatively.
- Follow all rules set by World Rugby, USA Rugby, and event organizers.
- Promote inclusion and refrain from racist, sexist, homophobic, or otherwise discriminatory behavior.
- Avoid obscene or profane language.
- Refrain from bullying or harassment in any form, including online.
- Support teammates and promote teamwork—never criticize destructively.
- Abstain from alcohol, drugs, tobacco, vaping, or marijuana at all rugby events.
- Not bring weapons or dangerous materials to any event.
- Prioritize team success over personal goals.
- Attend all practices and games unless excused for valid reasons; communicate absences promptly.
- Work hard both athletically and academically—school comes first.
- Represent the Highlander Program positively when wearing team gear in public.
- Play within the spirit and laws of the game—no cheating.
Parent/Guardian Code of Conduct
Parents and guardians agree to:
- Support participation for the child’s enjoyment—not personal ambition.
- Emphasize character development over winning.
- Encourage players positively and respectfully.
- Model respect for rules, officials, teammates, and opponents.
- Avoid criticizing referees publicly.
- Appreciate coaches and referees as volunteers.
- Ensure timely attendance and pickup for practices and games.
- Refrain from using tobacco, vaping, or alcohol at youth events.
- Avoid negative comments about coaches in front of players.
- Support inclusion and avoid discriminatory language or behavior.
- Never provide alcohol, drugs, or tobacco to youth participants.
Player Release & Medical Consent
By participating, I acknowledge:
- Rugby involves inherent risks, including serious injury or death.
- I voluntarily assume all risks associated with participation.
- I release Highlanders Rugby, USA Rugby, and all associated personnel from
- liability to the fullest extent permitted by law.
- I agree to indemnify and hold harmless all associated parties from any claims arising from participation.
- Players must be medically cleared within the past year.
- In emergencies, Highlanders representatives may authorize medical treatment.
- Families are responsible for all medical costs.
- Highlanders staff are not medical professionals and are not liable for care decisions.
Media Release
I grant permission for the use of photos and videos for promotional or educational purposes without compensation.
Acknowledgements
Participants understand:
- Highlanders Rugby is not affiliated with any school system.
- Coaches and administrators are volunteers.
- Conduct is governed by USA Rugby and Highlanders Rugby policies.
- Policies may be updated at any time and take effect immediately upon publication.
Participant Responsibilities
Participants agree to:
- Ensure players are physically fit and medically insured.
- Complete all required waivers and documentation.
- Use proper equipment (including mouthguards where required).
- Maintain lawful behavior and prioritize academic responsibilities.
- Wear proper uniform and gear as directed.
Travel Policy (Summary)
Local Travel
Arranged by parents/guardians.
Academy staff are not responsible for coordination.
Safety and legal compliance are required.
Team Travel (Overnight)
Organized by the Highlanders Staff
Coaches and chaperones supervise players.
Curfews and conduct rules apply.
No adult may be alone with a minor (unless a parent/guardian).
No alcohol or drugs allowed.
Player Expectations During Travel
Stay with the team unless given permission.
Travel in groups when in public.
Show respect and sportsmanship at all times.
No possession or use of drugs, alcohol, or weapons.
Violations may result in removal from the trip, suspension, or dismissal.
Dispute Resolution
Disputes will first be addressed through negotiation.
Unresolved disputes will go to arbitration in North Carolina.
Arbitration decisions are final and binding.
Proceedings are confidential.
Final Agreement
By signing, participants and guardians confirm:
They have read and understand this document.
They agree to all terms and conditions.
They have authority to bind all participants to this agreement.
BY ACKNOWLEDGING AND SIGNING BELOW, I AM DELIVERING AN ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE THAT WILL HAVE THE SAME EFFECT AS AN ORIGINAL MANUAL PAPER SIGNATURE. THE ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE WILL BE EQUALLY AS BINDING AS AN ORIGINAL MANUAL PAPER SIGNATURE.