Under 12’s (Co-Ed Tackle)
- No Experience Necessary
- Safe and exciting introduction to contact rugby for athletes ages 10–12
- Players build on their tackling, passing, and positional skills while learning more advanced strategies of the game
- Focus on teamwork, confidence, and sportsmanship in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment
Who Can Play?
Our U12 team is open to boys and girls who are 10 or 11 years old as of September 1 before the season starts. This age group is a great bridge between introductory rugby and the more advanced middle school level. No prior rugby experience is required—just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn!
Game Format
- 12 players per side
- Tackle rugby (Co-ed)
- Uncontested scrums and lineouts
- Safe, supportive environment for learning rugby basics
- Structured play to develop strategic thinking
Why U12 Rugby?
U12 rugby builds on the skills learned at the U10 level. Players refine their techniques, strengthen their understanding of the game, and begin developing the physical and mental preparedness needed for middle school rugby. The slightly larger team size introduces more complex gameplay while keeping the focus on fun and learning.
Practice and Game Schedule
- Practices: Monday, Wednesday and Friday (See calendar for details)
- Season begins: Practices start first week of November
- Games: Saturdays, January through March
- Game locations: Primarily in the Bay Area, with occasional trips to Central Valley
- Free Practice: Come out for a free practice or two!
Preparing for the Future
At this level, our coaches focus on:
- Advanced skill development
- Introduction to positional play
- Building game awareness
- Fostering teamwork and leadership skills
Join the Rugby Family!
Whether your child is moving up from U10 or brand new to the sport, U12 Rugby at Santa Rosa Youth Rugby offers an exciting challenge. It’s the perfect way to stay active, make lasting friendships, and lay the groundwork for success at the middle school level and beyond.
Meet The Coaches
Manny
Bio Coming Soon!
Semu Wongking
Born and raised in Santa Rosa, California, I discovered my passion for rugby while attending Elsie Allen High School, where I played for three years before finishing my senior year at Rancho Cotate High School. After graduating, our Rancho Cotate Rugby Club was invited to compete in the prestigious U19 Tournament at Stanford, where we proudly earned third place.
I continued my rugby journey at Santa Rosa Junior College, playing for three more years before taking some time off to focus on work and family. Eventually, I returned to the field with the Santa Rosa Redwood Sharks Rugby Club, competing in both Division 3 and Division 4 for over a decade.
My biggest rugby role model is my dad, who has played for more than 40 years with teams including the Santa Rosa Men’s Club, Montgomery High School Rugby Club, Rancho Cotate High School, the Redwood Empire Sharks, and the Santa Rosa Old Boys and Bald Eagles. His dedication to the game continues to inspire me every day.
Now, as a USA Rugby Level 1 Certified Coach with Santa Rosa Youth Rugby, I’m honored to teach and mentor the next generation of players. My goal is to share the game I love while instilling respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship—both on and off the field.