Respect is fundamental to rugby. From players and coaches to referees, volunteers, supporters, parents and everyone involved behind the scenes, we all have a role to play in making sure our game is a positive experience for everyone.
Throughout the 2026/27 season, clubs will be encouraged to keep the principles of Respect Our Game central to their activities, building on the excellent work already taking place across Irish Rugby.
The season begins with a ‘Setting the Standard’ focus in September, reminding everyone involved in the game of the standards and behaviours we expect across our game.
Respect Our Game Throughout the Season
Respect Our Game will continue throughout 2026/27, with a series of key dates and themes providing opportunities for clubs to highlight different aspects of respect, inclusion and community.
Weekend of 27th November – Pride Round
Celebrating LGBTQI+ inclusion
The Pride Round will celebrate the diversity of the rugby community and reinforce the message that rugby is a game for everyone.
Weekend of 5th February – Respect Officials Weekend
Recognising our Match Officials and promoting positive behaviour
Referees and match officials play an essential role in making rugby possible. Respect Officials Weekend will recognise their contribution and encourage positive and respectful behaviour towards officials at every level of the game.
Weekend of 19th March – Club & Community Connection Weekend
Celebrating the role of clubs in their communities
Rugby clubs are at the heart of communities across Ireland. This weekend will shine a light on the contribution clubs make locally and recognise the volunteers whose time, energy and commitment keep clubs going week in, week out.
Sunday 25th April – Energia All-Ireland League Finals Day
Celebrating the club game and the people behind it
The Energia All-Ireland League Finals Day will provide an opportunity to celebrate the club game and recognise the players, coaches, volunteers, supporters and communities who make Irish club rugby what it is.
Everyone Has a Role to Play
Respect Our Game is about more than a campaign or a series of themed weekends. It is about the standards we set every day - at training, on match days, in the clubhouse, on the sidelines and online.
By working together, clubs can help ensure that rugby remains a game where people feel welcome, safe, included and respected.
Together, let’s set the standard and make Respect Our Game a central part of the 2026/27 season.
Further information, resources and campaign materials will be shared with clubs throughout the season.
For further details, contact your provincial spirit officer:
Connacht – Laura Scuffil - laura.scuffil@connachtrugby.ie
Leinster – Billy Phelan - Billy.phelan@leinsterrugby.ie
Munster – Siobhan Barrett - Siobhanbarrett@munsterrugby.ie
Ulster – Kerry Spence - Kerry.spence@ulsterrugby.com
