Masters
If you’re 35 or over then Masters Rugby League is the game for you!
Masters is strictly a social version of the sport and the rules are slightly modified to cater for the older player.
There are no winners, no champions and no cup finals. Masters is about is the spirit of the game.
The most important rule is:
“everyone has to buy a drink for their opposite number.”
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Rule Modifications
Just like the full version of the game Masters is 13 a-side, however rule modifications include:
- The defensive line should be kept 5 metres back, instead of 10
- Different coloured shorts for different age groups and the rules, plus players awareness during the game, are adapted accordingly. Tackles are modified according to age.
Short Colour |
Tackle |
White Shorts (35 to 49) |
Players to tackle each other normally |
Red Shorts (50 to 59) |
Players must be physically stopped and held. On defence, red short players must make a definite two handed hold on the attacker |
Gold Shorts (60 plus) |
Players to tackle or be tackled need to just touch, ie. No tackling |
- No more than two players allowed in any tackle and no fending/hand offs
- Once progress has stopped, players are preferred to succumb
- Rough and over vigorous play is not condoned, safety is paramount
- Passive scrums happen after nearly all infringements and turnovers
- Kicks only allowed on the last tackle
- 25 minutes each way with unlimited interchange
- No coach is required, just a team captain who acts as the point of contact









