British Columbia Rugby Union - Rules of Competition Revised by: Competition Committee, September 2010

1. Definitions:

1.1 "Academy" means a program for the development of elite athletes that lasts for the duration a rugby season.

1.2 "Age Grade" means a competition in which participation is determined by being a particular age as may be determined by the Competition Committee from time to time.

1.3 "BCRU" means the British Columbia Rugby Union.

1.4 "Club" means a local organization, which may operate one or more teams, through which a participant is registered to the CRU, BCRU, and a sub-union.

1.5 "Competition" means games, divisions, leagues (including associated playoffs), tournaments and festivals under the jurisdiction of the BCRU.

1.7 "CRU" means the Canadian Rugby Union, now referred to as "Rugby Canada."

1.6 "Division" means a competitive level of league play.

1.7 "CC" means the Competition Committee.

1.8 "Laws" means the Laws of the Game of Rugby Union as published annually by the International Rugby Board (IRB).

1.9 "Loan" means the temporary movement of a participant from one club to another, which has been mutually agreed to by the two clubs concerned and does not involve a transfer or a release.

1.10 "Media Rights" means all television and other broadcasting, taping, media advertising, publicity and promotion rights of any and every description.

1.11 "Organizing Committee" means the Committee or Sub-Union, as it is appropriate to the Division concerned, to whom the CC designates powers.

1.12 "Participant" means all active CRU, BCRU, sub-union and club members including players, coaches, managers, referees, therapists, administrators and officials.

1.13 "Release" means that a club has agreed to end the registration of a participant with that club and has completed a Rugby Canada Player Transfer/Release Form, or other approved documentation, and provided a copy of the completed Form to the BCRU.

1.14 "Rules" means the Rules of Competition of the BCRU.

1.15 "Sub-Union" means any Sub-Union, Association or Society affiliated with the BCRU.

1.16 "Transfer" means a permanent move by a participant from one club to another. A transfer requires the completion of a Rugby Canada Transfer/Release Form or other approved documentation.

1.17 "Win/Loss Ratio" "means the quotient, to three decimal places, obtained by dividing the number of games played into the number of games won. Games tied are added as .5 to the number of games won.

2. The Competition Committee:

2.1 The BCRU delegates to the Competition Committee ("CC") the management of all BCRU owned and sanctioned Competitions and of maintaining current, complete and consistent Rules of Competition.

2.2 The Composition of the CC shall be:

2.2.1 BCRU CC Chair and Vice Chair, as appointed by the Board of the BCRU and who shall be an elected member of the BCRU Board.

2.2.2 Presidents of the FVRU, VIRU and VRU or their delegates.

2.2.3 President of the NVIRU and the BCRU Director of Interior Development or their delegate may sit as non-voting members.

2.2.4 BCRRS President or their delegate.

2.2.5 Male and Female Athlete Representatives.

2.2.6 Chief Executive Officer of the BCRU, who shall sit as an ex-officio member of the CC.

2.2.7 Any other member that the CC may determine is required for a specific purpose from time to time may be appointed as a non-voting member.

2.2.8 A member of the BCRU-CC is considered to be in a conflict of interest if an issue at hand is pertaining to the BCRU-CC member's club. The conflicted BCRU-CC member will refrain from participating in the discussion of the issue, but may provide information if asked. If a vote is required on the issue, the conflicted BCRU-CC member will abstain from voting.

2.3.1 The Athlete's Representatives shall be appointed by the CC on an annual basis and shall be active players within Sub-Unions.

2.3.2 The appointment process for the Athlete's Representatives shall be as determined by the CC from time to time.

2.4 A quorum for a meeting of the CC shall be four members.

2.5 The CC shall meet at such times as arranged by the CC Chair, which in any event shall be at least once quarterly.

3. Rules of Competition:

3.1 BCRU Competitions shall be open to all Clubs that satisfy the rules of membership in the CRU, BCRU, and their own Sub-Union.

3.2 Traditional geographical rivalries and cup competitions shall be incorporated into the structure wherever possible.

3.3 All matches shall be played under the Laws of the Game of Rugby Union and shall comply with the rules and regulations of the IRB, CRU and the BCRU and the relevant Sub-union and/or Organizing Committee.

3.4 The top levels of play for men and women will be known as the BCRU Premier Divisions.

3.4.1 For clubs that do not field a Premier team the top level of competition is the First Division.

3.5.1 game in the Premier Men, Premier Women, or Men's First Division is forfeited by a team if the team must move to a depowered scrum because it is unable to make two trained front row substitutions due to lack of substitute players. Games in all other divisions are subject to IRB law

3.5.2 with regards to number of front row substitutes. If a team is unable to make a front row substitution due to lack of substitute players and must move to depowered scrums, the game may only continue as a non-forfeit with the team playing 14 players. This14 player restriction may be waived at the request of the non-offending team.

3.5.3 Each player in the front row and any potential replacement(s) must be suitably trained and experienced.

3.5.4 All games are subject to IRB law 3.4 with regards to number of substitute players. However, regular season games in Men's Division 3rd and the lowest competitive division of Women's play may be played with unlimited substitutions, pending mutual agreement of the coaches/captains of both teams and communication with the referee prior to kick off.

3.6 The number of players in all other divisions is in accordance with IRB Laws or in accordance with variations established by the appropriate Organizing Committee.

3.7 Promotion and relegation between divisional levels may occur based upon a team's record of performance in a Competition.

3.8 Qualification to the Men's Premier Competition may be determined through standings from the fall Sub-union competitions.

3.9 The Competition season will be within the first weekend of September to the weekend in May immediately preceding the long weekend.

3.10 The CC may schedule games at such times and places as it deems appropriate, taking into account that traditionally rugby games are scheduled for Premier and Divisional competitions on Saturday afternoons; however Premier Division games may be scheduled on Friday and Saturday evenings or Sunday afternoons. Age Grade is normally scheduled on Sundays.

3.11.1 Issues that arise from time to time that are not specifically addressed in the Rules of Competition shall be subject to the final authority of the CC.

3.11.2 If the Rules are silent on a matter the policies of the IRB shall be applicable, where appropriate. If for any reason the CC does not follow a stated policy of the IRB it shall give written reasons for doing so, including the rationale for the same.

4. Media Rights:

4.1 The media rights are owned by the BCRU.

4.2 The BCRU Premier Leagues will be the major component of the BCRU media program

4.3 The BCRU media program will be developed in consultation with participating Sub Unions and Clubs.

4.4 No Sub-union or Club may sign a sponsorship agreement with any party that creates a conflict with a BCRU sponsor, without first obtaining the express permission of the BCRU in writing to do so, such permission not to be unreasonably withheld.

5. Compliance with Regulations and Procedures:

5.1 The Sub-unions and Clubs are deemed to have full knowledge of these Rules and must ensure that they comply with them.

5.2 The Sub-unions and Clubs must ensure that they take appropriate action to inform each of their members of these Rules and the obligation to comply with them.

5.3 These Rules, and any approved variations to them, shall be published on the BCRU Website (www.bcrugby.com) and available in printed form to any member of the BCRU who requests them.

6. Eligibility of Clubs to Participate in the Premier and First Divisions:

6.1 The minimum criteria for Clubs to participate in the Men's Premier Division, Women’s Premier Division, Men's First Division and the Women's First Division are outlined in the table below:

Division: Additional Teams Required Recommended Men's BC Premier: First Division and U19 U17, U16 Men's BC First Division: Another Senior Team and U19 U17, U16 Women's BC Premier: Another Senior Team or age grade Sr team and U18 Women's BC First Division: 2nd Div or U18

6.2 Clubs wishing to participate at the level in the left hand column must field additional teams as noted in the columns to the right.

6.3 Clubs that are unable to meet the additional team requirements as stated above must submit a written appeal with a detailed rational to the CC 30 days prior to commencement of league games. The CC must rule on the appeal within two weeks of receipt of the appeal.

6.4 An Academy team may be entered into the Competition at an appropriate level to be determined by the CC.

6.5 Any representative team or Academy team may not participate in any divisional spring playoff schedule.

7. Eligibility of Participants:

7.1 All Participants must be registered with the CRU, the BCRU, and Sub-union through the Club of their choice prior to participation in any competition.

7.2 This registration confirms the relationship between the Participant and the Club and the Participant is deemed to be a member of the Club submitting the Participant's registration to the CRU, the BCRU and Sub-union.

7.3 The registration process shall be as defined annually by the CRU and the BCRU.

7.4 Clubs must ensure that all Participants are registered annually and that all dues and fees levied on Participants and Clubs are paid to the CRU and the BCRU and the appropriate Sub-union through that Sub-union.

7.5 Clubs failing to have all Participants registered by the deadlines set by the CRU, the BCRU and Sub-union may be subject to sanctions as determined by those bodies and/or the CC.

8. Movement of Participants:

8.1.1 This Section 8, regarding Movement of Participants, applies only to those Participants that are 19 years of age or older.

8.1.2 Participants remain registered to their most recent Club until that Club grants them a Transfer, or Release, even if a current registration form is not on file with the CRU, the BCRU, or Sub-union.

8.2.1 Participants may transfer no more than two times within a 12-month period beginning August 1st of each playing year.

8.2.2 An application for a further transfer within a 12 month period may be made to the CC in writing. The decision from the CC shall be final in this regard.

8.3. Participants may not transfer into BCRU Clubs within the period beginning four weeks prior to league/division play-offs. Any request for exemptions for special circumstances from these conditions can be appealed to the CC 21 days before the start of qualification or postseason play.

8.4 No Club shall induce or recruit any Participant to seek a Transfer or a Release during the regular playing season including playoffs. A Club found to have breached this regulation shall be subject to sanctions by the CC and/or the appropriate Sub-Union.

8.5 In order to obtain a Transfer, or a Release, Participants must be in good standing with the CRU, the BCRU, the Sub-union and their Club.

8.6 Participants seeking a Transfer, or a Release, must submit the required form or approved documentation to their Club and, if approved, the Club shall sign the form and it shall be forwarded to the CRU, the BCRU and the Sub-union within 72 hours.

8.7 Should a Club refuse to grant a Participant's request for a Transfer or a Release it shall provide the Participant with written reasons for its refusal with copies to the BCRU and the Sub-union within 72 hours.

8.8 Any Participant attending an Academy or a university shall be deemed to be on Loan for the season, but remains a member of the Club with which the participant was registered immediately before entering the Academy or university, unless that Club has formally agreed to a Transfer or Release.

8.8.1 Participants may play as "guest" players for another Club during sanctioned, non- league rugby events/tournaments without a formal Transfer or Release, provided the participant is a currently registered member of the BCRU and is in good standing with their Club.

8.9 Any Participant who has not been placed on Loan or given a Transfer or a Release in accordance with the provisions of this section is deemed to be ineligible to participate for any Club other than his original Club.

8.10 Any Participant or Club may make written application to the CC to be relieved of the provisions of this part and the decision of the CC.

9. Club Indemnity and Transfer Fees (Respecting movement of participants in pursuant to Section 8)

9.1 All Clubs shall be reasonable in granting a Participant a Transfer or a Release.

9.2 Clubs should maintain written records so that a Participant seeking a Transfer or a Release may be fully informed in writing of any indebtedness that they may have to the Club.

9.3 A Participant seeking a Transfer or a Release, who has not cleared up any financial obligation to the Club, is not eligible to participate with any other Club until all debts have been cleared.

9.4 In addition to the Participant clearing their obligations to the original Club, the Club to which the Participant wishes to transfer may be obligated to pay a transfer fee.

9.5 Transfer fees shall not apply to Transfers of Participants to, or from, other provinces or countries.

9.6 Transfer fees shall only apply to Transfers between Clubs within the FVRU, VIRU, NVIRU and VRU.

9.7 Transfer fees shall only apply to transfers from Clubs in the CIRU, IIRU and the NCRU to Clubs in the Sub-unions listed in Part 9.6, above.

9.8 The table of transfer fees is based on the number of seasons that a Participant has been a registered member of a Club beginning at the season in which the Participant reached the age of majority.

9.9 Table of Transfer Fees:

Seasons of Club Membership: One Season No transfer fee Two or Three Seasons $200.00 Four Seasons or More $500

9.10 Transfer fees are due on the date that a Participant registers with a new Club. If the transfer fees have not been paid within 14 days of that date the new Club is in default and the transferred Participant is ineligible to play for the new Club until the transfer fee has been paid.

9.11 The Club from which the Transfer is required may waive some or all of the Participant's indebtedness or transfer fee and such waiver shall be confirmed in writing by the transferring Club.

10. Club Affiliation:

10.1 A Club may enter into a loan agreement with a Club that is not participating in the same competition as them.

10.2 A Club may enter into a loan agreement with one other Club.

10.3 Clubs wishing to enter into a loan agreement must file a copy of the loan agreement with the BCRU and the appropriate Sub-union 30 days prior to commencement of league games and must renew any such agreement in writing annually.

10.4 If a Club seeks to enter into a loan agreement with additional Clubs, it must first seek the approval of the CC and the appropriate Sub-Union.

11. Dispute Resolution Related to Participant Eligibility and Movement:

11.1 In cases of dispute in matters of Participant eligibility, Transfer or Release, the CC shall appoint a third party mediator who shall meet with the parties concerned to assist them in reaching a reasonable solution to the matter.

11.2 During the dispute the Chair of the CC shall make an interim ruling as to the eligibility of the Participant in regard to the Clubs involved in the matter.

11.3 Should the mediator be unsuccessful in assisting the Clubs to resolve the matter, the CC shall act as, or shall appoint, an arbitrator whose decision in the matter shall be final, subject only to an appeal to the Board of the BCRU.

12. Eligibility for Playoffs in the Men's and Women's Premier and First Divisions:

12.1 A Participant must play in four regular league games for his Club in the current season in order to be eligible to play in the BCRU playoffs, and two of these games must be at a level the same as or below the division he will compete in during the playoffs. A player must take the field to be listed on the game sheet and count as a game played. Substitute players that do not take the field should not be listed. Rosters will be set based on game sheets 3 weeks prior to the playoffs, with exceptions being able to be applied to the CC.

12.1 A Participant must play in four regular league games for his Club in the current season in order to be eligible to play in the BCRU playoffs, and two of these games must be at a level the same as or below the division he will compete in during the playoffs. A player must take the field to be listed on the game sheet and count as a game played. Substitute players that do not take the field should not be listed. Rosters will be set based on game sheets 4 weeks prior to the playoffs, with exceptions being able to be applied to the CC.

12.2 The games played must occur on different dates. Playing two games at different divisional levels on the same date shall not count as two games towards the four game requirements.

12.3.1 Appeals of the four game rule may be made to the CC up to 21 days prior to the first play-off date.

12.3.2 Grounds for appeal may include, but are not limited to, return from injury or illness, participation on provincial, national teams and other circumstances beyond the control of the player.

13. Eligibility of Foreign and Carded Players:

13.1.1 Clubs are restricted to playing no more than three(3) Import players per team in any given game.

13.1.2 Clubs other than Universities are restricted to playing no more than three (3) Carded Players per team in any given game. 13.1.3 Clubs are restricted to playing no more than a total of four (4) Import and Carded players combined in any given game.

13.2.1 The classification of an import player shall be guided by IRB Regulation 8. To qualify as a non-import, a player must either:

(a) have been born in Canada (b) have one parent or grandparent born in Canada (c) have completed thirty six consecutive months of Residence immediately preceding the time of playing. (d) have possession of a Canadian Citizenship or Landed Immigrant Card

Players qualifying as non-imports under items (b), (c), or (d) above are required to fill out an IRB regulation 8 form and file it with the BC Rugby office 14 days prior to competing as non-import player in any league competition.

13.2.2 In addition to 13.2.1, a Player who has played for the senior fifteen-a-side National Representative Team or the next senior fifteen-a-side National Representative Team or the senior National Representative Sevens Team of a Union other than Canada (and is not eligible to play for the Canadian National Representative Team) shall always be classified as an import player. Any request for exemptions for special circumstances from these conditions can be appealed to the CC 14 days prior to competing in any league competition.

13.2.3 The classification of a Carded Player shall be defined as a player who is currently receiving, or in the preceding 12 months received ongoing financial support from Rugby Canada, whether directly or indirectly, but does not include those players who have been registered with their current club for a minimum of 3 consecutive seasons (Sept-May) prior to becoming a Carded Player, or have a history of junior age grade development with the club if not meeting the 3 season criteria.

13.3 For American Clubs participating in BCRU sanctioned Competitions, an import player is defined as a Participant who is not an American Citizen, or does not possess a Permanent Resident Card or an Alien Registration Card (Green Card).

13.4 Applications for exemptions to the import classification may be made in writing to the Competition Committee. 13.5.1 All import players must be listed on an Import Player Declaration Form to be submitted to the BCRU office 14 days prior to competing in any league competition. All import players must be identified on the BCRU Game Sheet with a circled capital “I”. This must be done on each and every game sheet for the duration of the season. 13.5.2 All carded players that qualify under 13.2.3 must be listed on a Carded Player Declaration Form to be submitted to the BCRU office14 days prior to competing in any league competition. . All carded players must be identified on the BCRU Game Sheet with a circled capital “C”. This must be done on each and every game sheet for the duration of the season. 13.6 Any violation by a Club of these eligibility regulations or in the filling out of required forms shall result in sanctions by the CC. These sanctions will include standing point deductions, and a minimum $500 fine. 14. Competition Format and Schedule: 14.1 The CC shall be responsible for the scheduling of all competitions under the jurisdiction of the BCRU and has the primary responsibility for the scheduling of the spring league/ Division and regional representative competitions, including the McKechnie, Dunbar and Hellerud-Brown Cup games. 14.2 The CC shall be responsible for the scheduling of the BCRU qualifying leagues and playoffs for the other tiers/ divisions unless that responsibility has been delegated to a Sub-Union. 14.3 The CC shall have a working draft of Sr Men’s and Women’s schedule for the spring playing season available for consideration by December 15th 2010. 14.4 Regional schedules shall be the responsibility of the appropriate Sub-Unions and Organizing Committees and shall be finalized before the beginning of each playing season. 14.5 The format for competition shall be as detailed in the attached Appendix "A". 15. The Field of Play: 15.1 All Clubs must have satisfactory facilities, including field and changing rooms, as determined by the CC, which may require a Club to improve or change its facility. 15.2 A Club's alternative home field must also have satisfactory facilities. 15.3 The home Club is responsible for the marking and flagging of the field in accordance with the Laws. 15.4 The goal posts are to be padded to a height of not less than 1.5 meters. 15.5 Appropriate spectator restraints must be in place on both sides of the field. The minimum standard for this is roping placed a safe distance back from the touchline and from dead-ball line to dead-ball line on both sides of the pitch. The match referee has the discretion to waive this requirement.

15.6 For games played at venues other than either Club's normal home field or alternative field, the CC, or the appropriate Sub-union or Organizing Committee, shall designate the home Club responsible for field preparation if it is not part of the venue lease agreement.

15.7 Clubs that do not meet the requirements of Parts 15.3 through 15.5 above may be subject to sanctions by the CC and/or the Sub-Unions.

15.8 Team personnel, exclusive of person/s acting as physio/trainer/doctor are not permitted in the playing enclosure during play and are to be situated outside the playing enclosure or behind the opposition in-goal area. Two clearly identified persons acting as physio/trainer/doctor may enter field of play at any time to assist injured players. At the next whistle, where safely possible, play will continue. These medical personnel can roam, one on either side of the field. All substitute/replacement players are to be situated outside the playing enclosure or behind the opposition in-goal area, and if required to warm-up, are to do so either in a designated area well outside the playing enclosure or behind the opposition in-goal area.

16. Schedule or Venue Changes for Premier Division:

16.1 The CC has the right to schedule make-up games at times and venues that it deems necessary.

16.2 The kick-off time for Men's Premier Division games shall be 2:45pm. Times may be adjusted for conditions if games are affected by Daylight Savings Time. The kick-off times for games scheduled to be played before a Premier game shall then be adjusted accordingly.

16.3 The home Club has the right to reschedule a game to an approved alternative field if its home field is closed. The home Club may use the home field of any other Club as its alternative field. All changes, or potential changes, must be reported in advance to the BC Rugby office and the Referee Allocator of the BC Rugby Referee Society'.

16.4 If no approved alternative field is confirmed by 8:00PM Wednesday, the home Club must make phone contact with a representative of the opponent Club and advise that a field has yet to be secured, and the home Club may have to travel to its opponent's field or approved alternative. The opponent Club will then be able to make tentative arrangements for an alternative field if available. E-mail messages are not sufficient contact. The opposing Club may use the home field of any other Club as its potential alternative field.

16.5 Home Clubs must confirm an alternative field with the opposition, the Referee Allocator of the BC Rugby Referee Society, and the CC by 12:00PM Friday or 36 hours previous to any game not scheduled on a Saturday. If a home alternative field is unable to be confirmed by this time, and the opponent has confirmed an alternative, the home team must travel to the opponent's field, If the original home club is forced to travel in a cross Strait, cross Coquihalla, or cross border fixture, the opponent will be required to pay up to $700 to the original home club to aid in covering legitimate travel expenses. The opponent may ask for proof of payment from the home club to verify expenses if necessary.

16.6 Failure by the home Club to notify the opposition, the Referee Allocator of the BC Rugby Referee Society, and the BCRU of any field closure or venue change may result in sanctions, to be set by the CC.

16.7 If a team travels to a competitor's home field or incurs travel expenses, in reliance on the home Club's representation that the field will be playable, and if the field is not playable, then the home team will be required to pay the reasonable costs of the visiting team's travel expenses. The original traveling team has the option to return for the make up match, or, in the alternative, host the make up game at their home field.

16.8 It is understood that for cross Strait travel games in the Men's Premier Division, the second team games (first division) must be scheduled with the Premier games at the same field or a secondary field within reasonable proximity. Inability of a Club to host both games will result in rule 16.4 being enacted.

16.9 Unless otherwise approved by the CC, make-up games shall be played in the order in which they were cancelled, that is, the first game cancelled shall be the first game to be played on a make-up date.

16.10 By mutual written agreement two Clubs may change the date of a scheduled game. Such changes must also be approved by the CC and sent to the BCRU and the Referee Allocator of the BC Rugby Referee Society as soon as confirmed.

16.11 No game shall qualify for double points within league standings.

16.12 All matches shall commence at the scheduled kickoff time unless there are exceptional circumstances (e.g. late arrival due to unforeseen travel delays). In such instances, the referee may delay the start of the match by up to 20 minutes. In such instances, however, the visiting club is required to notify the home club as early as possible of their delay, and failure to do so may result in sanctions to be determined by the CC.

16.12.1 If the game is to start later than the scheduled kick off time and there is another match scheduled to start soon after, the first game is to be reduced in length for each half of the match, so that the game will finish within 90 minutes of the originally scheduled kick-off, or, at least 5 minutes before the next game is due to start, if that is later.

16.12.2 It is recommended that kick off times for fixtures at the same venue be scheduled 1 hr 45 min apart when possible, especially when a visiting team is traveling.

17. Schedule and Venue Changes in Other Divisions:

17.1 The following standard set of rules for other divisions may be varied by the Sub-unions. Such shall be submitted to the CC and made available to all Clubs through the BCRU Website.

17.2 The home Club has the right to reschedule a game to an approved alternative field if its home field is closed. The home Club may use the home field of any other Club as its alternative field.

17.3 If no approved alternative field is confirmed by 8:00PM Wednesday, the home Club must make phone contact with a representative of the opponent Club and advise that a field has yet to be secured, and the home Club may have to travel to its opponent's field or approved alternative. The opponent Club will then be able to make tentative arrangements for an alternative field if available. E-mail messages are not sufficient contact. The opposing Club may use the home field of any other Club as its potential alternative field.

17.4 Home Clubs must confirm an alternative field with the opposition, the Referee Allocator of the responsible Referee Society, and the CC by 12:00PM Friday or 36 hours previous to any game not scheduled on a Saturday. If a home alternative field is unable to be confirmed by this time, and the opponent has confirmed an alternative, the home team must travel to the opponent's field, If the original home club is forced to travel in a cross Strait, cross Coquihalla, or cross border fixture, the opponent will be required to pay up to $700 to the original home club to aid in covering legitimate travel expenses. The opponent may ask for proof of payment from the home club to verify expenses if necessary.

17.4.1 If a game is scheduled as a neutral site fixture, and the neutral field is closed, it is the responsibility of the listed home team to attempt to find an alternative neutral field. If an alternative neutral field is unable to be confirmed by 12:00PM Friday, the game will not be played and re-scheduled as available. Clubs involved in neutral site fixtures will not be required to travel to home or opposing Clubs' fields unless a mutual agreement is reached. The BC Rugby office is to be notified as soon as either Club involved in a neutral site fixture is aware of the need, or potential need, to change venue.

17.5 Failure by the home Club to notify the opposition, the Referee Allocator of the appropriate Referee Society, and the BCRU of any field closure or venue change may result in sanctions, to be set by the Sub-Union.

17.6 Unless approved by the Competition Committee make-up games shall be played in the order in which they were cancelled, that is, the first game cancelled shall be the first game to be played on a make-up date.

17.7 By mutual written agreement two Clubs may change the date of a scheduled game. Such changes must also be approved by the Sub-Union and CC and sent to the BCRU and the Referee Allocator of the appropriate Referee Society 14 days prior to the scheduled game.

17.8 There shall be no double point games unless by mutual written agreement between the two clubs involved and the Sub-Union.

17.9 If a team travels to a competitor's home field, in reliance on the home Club's representation that the field will be playable, and if the field is not playable, then the home team will be required to pay the reasonable costs of the visiting team's subsequent travel expense to return for the make up match, or, in the alternative, travel to the visiting team's home field for the make up game.

17.10 All matches shall commence at the scheduled kickoff time unless there are exceptional circumstances (e.g. late arrival due to unforeseen travel delays). In such instances, the referee may delay the start of the match by up to 20 minutes. In such instances, however, the visiting club is required to notify the home club as early as possible of their delay, and failure to do so may result in sanctions to be determined by the CC.

17.10.1 If the game is to start later than the scheduled kick off time and there is another match scheduled to start soon after, the first game is to be reduced in length for each half of the match, so that the game will finish within 90 minutes of the originally scheduled kick-off, or, at least 5 minutes before the next game is due to start, if that is later.

17.10.2 It is recommended that kick off times for fixtures at the same venue be scheduled 1 hr 45 min apart when possible, especially when a visiting team is traveling.

18. Abandonment of a Game:

18.1 A referee has the power to abandon a game at any time if, in his opinion, the game should not continue to full time. The referee must report the reasons for making this decision to the appropriate Organizing Committee within 72 hours.

18.2 If weather conditions prevent a game from being played, or a game is abandoned because of poor weather conditions, with less than 60 minutes having been played, the game shall be played or replayed as a make-up game.

18.3 If a game is abandoned because of weather conditions after 60 minutes or more have been played, then the score at that time shall be deemed to be the final score of the game. The referee's decision regarding the need to abandon the game and the time played shall be final.

18.4 If the referee decides that a game must be abandoned for any reason other than weather conditions, both team captains shall be informed that the game is being abandoned and the reason for taking that action.

18.5 Where a game is abandoned for any reason other than weather conditions, the referee and both of the team captains shall submit, within 72 hours, a written report detailing the reasons for abandoning the game to the appropriate Organizing Committee.

18.6 The Organizing Committee shall review the reports of the referee and the team captains and consider such other evidence that it deems relevant to the matter and then make a decision as to the status of the game.

18.7 The Organizing Committee has the power to declare a winner, order a replay, or to declare a no-contest, in which case no points are awarded to either club, and may apply such sanctions as it deems fit. If a replay is ordered it shall be held under conditions established by the Organizing Committee.

18.8 If a team captain decides to abandon a match he shall inform the referee of the reasons for that decision.

18.9 The procedure for reporting and adjudicating the abandonment of a game by a team captain shall be the same as that described in Parts18.4 through 18.7 above.

19. Scores, Division Standings and Tables

19.1 Both teams in all Divisions are required to report game scores click here (scores @bcrugby.com) to the BCRU by noon Monday following the game. A warning will be issued to a Club by the BCRU office if the score is not received by noon Monday. The CC will consider standing point deductions if the score is not reported by noon Wednesday

19.2 The home team in all Divisions is required to complete and return to the BCRU the Game Sheet as confirmation of player participation, registration, score, and game statistics. These are used for playoff eligibility and must denote import, carded players as outlined in 13.4. Game sheets must be submitted on time and must be filled out completely. Improper filling out of the game sheet, or failure to submit to the BC rugby office, will result in sanctions, standing points deduction as determined by the Competition Committee with a minimum fine of $250. For information on how to fill out a proper game sheet and guidelines for submitting, click here.

19.3 Team standings in the Men's and Women's Premier Divisions and shall be determined by the total number of game points earned by a team during the current season.

19.4 The allocation of game points for the Premier Divisions and CDI First Division shall be as follows:

19.4.1 Four points for a win,

19.4.2 Two points for a draw,

19.4.3 One bonus point for finishing with a score of within seven points of the winner.

19.4.4 One bonus point for four or more tries scored in a game.

19.4.5 A defaulted game in these leagues shall count as five points and shall be recorded as a 20 - 0 score, as if the non-defaulting team scored 4 non converted tries. The defaulting team shall lose 4 points in the league standings. If a team defaults 2 or more times it will be ineligible for playoffs.

19.4.6 In addition, the defaulting Club shall be subject to a fine against its performance bond. (See Section 23).

19.5 Team standings in all other Divisions shall be determined by using the Win/Loss Ratio, unless otherwise designated by the CC to follow the format in Section 19.4 above.

19.6 The allocation of points in all Divisions, except Divisions listed in Section 19.4, shall be:

19.6.1 Four points for a win,

19.6.2 Two points for a tie.

19.6.3 A defaulted game shall count as four points and its score shall be recorded as a 5 - 0 and will count as one try. The defaulting team shall lose four points in league standings. If a team defaults 2 or more times it will be ineligible for playoffs.

19.6.4 When a default occurs in a league using the Win/Loss Ratio to determine standings, a default shall count as 2 losses when determining a team's ratio.

20. Tie Breaking:

20.1 In the case of two teams tied at the end of the season in the Divisions listed in Section 19.4, the final standings of the two teams shall be determined by considering, in order:

20.1.1 the record of the games played between the two teams;

20.1.2 the most tries scored in the games played between the two teams;

20.1.3 the score differential, points for minus points against, in the games played between the two teams;

20.1.4 the most wins in divisional play;

20.1.5 the most tries scored in divisional play;

20.1.6 the most bonus points earned in divisional play;

20.1.7 the score differential, points for minus points against, in divisional play;

20.1.8 the toss of a coin by the Chair of the CC.

20.2 In the case of a three-way tie in the Divisions listed in Section 19.4, the final standing shall be determined by considering, in order:

20.2.0 the most wins between the teams;

20.2.1 the most tries scored in divisional play;

20.2.2 the most bonus points earned in divisional play;

20.2.3 the point’s differential (points for less points against) in divisional play, as between the teams involved in the three-way tie only;

20.2.4 if any of the steps taken above results in a two-way tie then the rules for breaking a two-way tie in Section 20.1 shall be applied. If consideration of the point’s differential, as directed by Rule 20.23, produces different point totals for each of the three teams involved, this shall not be considered to be a two-way tie.

20.3 In the case of two teams tied at the end of the season in all other Divisions, the final standings of the two teams shall be determined by considering, in order:

20.3.1 the record of the games played between the two teams;

20.3.2 the point differential, points for minus points against, in the games played between the two teams;

20.3.3 the most wins in divisional play;

20.3.4 the points differential, points for minus points against, in divisional play;

20.3.5 the toss of a coin.

20.4 In the case of a three-way tie in the all other Divisions, the final standing shall be determined by considering, in order:

20.4.0 the most wins between the teams;

20.4.1 the point’s differential (points for less points against) in divisional play, as between the teams involved in the three-way tie only;

20.4.2 if any of the steps taken above results in a two-way tie then the rules for breaking a two-way tie in Section 20.1 shall be applied. If consideration of the point’s differential, as directed by Rule 20.4.1, produces different point totals for each of the three teams involved, this shall not be considered to be a two-way tie.

20.5 Sub-Unions may determine other tie breaking strategies to meet the needs of their Divisions. These must be written and made available to the member Clubs of the Sub-unions and to the CC.

20.6 In play-off games ties shall be broken by the following procedures:

20.6.1 If the score is tied at the end of regular time in a playoff game the two teams shall play two ten-minute periods of overtime.

20.6.2 If, after the two periods of overtime, the score is still tied the teams shall play consecutive five-minute periods of sudden-death overtime with the team that scores first being the winner.

20.6.3 Tie-breaking in playoffs organized by the BCRU Mini Rugby Committee and BCRU Age Grade Committee shall be subject to the IRB Under 19 Law Variations.

20.6.4 The CC may review and revise these Rules at the request of the participating teams.

21. Play-offs and Venues for All Divisions: (see format below as Appendix "A")

21.1 The venue for the BC Rugby Union Men's and Women's Club Championship Finals (all divisions) shall be determined by the BCRU Board.

21.2 The play-offs and venues for the Age Grade Divisions shall be determined by the CC in consultation with the BCRU Age Grade Committee, and Geographical Sub Unions.

21.3 Playoff fixture alteration requests to kickoff times or venues, for reasons of travel or ability to have adequate substitute players available, are allowed and need to be agreed upon by both competing Clubs and communicated to the BC Rugby office and Referee’s Society. If no agreement can be reached, games will default to the standard league timings for the given divisions. Senior Men: Tier One – Premier 2:30pm,First Division1:00pm Tier Two- First 2:30pm, Second Division, 1:00pm Tier Three -First 2:30pm, Second Division, 1:00pm Third Division- 11:30 am Senior Women: Women’s- Premier and First Division 11:30pm Women’s-Second Division 10:30am 21.4 The higher seeded team in a playoff fixture shall always hold home field advantage. There will be no neutral site playoff fixtures scheduled unless agreed upon by both teams. 21.5 Clubs must advise the BC Rugby office four (4) weeks prior to the start of any playoff competition if they do not intend to compete due to lack of players or other scheduling conflicts. Failure to provide adequate notice to the office will results in sanctions as decided upon by the CC, and may include monetary penalties.

23. Performance Bonds:

23.1 A Performance bond of $750 shall be paid to the BCRU by each Club (excluding clubs participating in the Over 40's competition), to be held by the BCRU as security against the eventuality of the Club failing to fulfill its obligations to the BCRU.

23.2 Performance bonds will not be refunded at the end of each season but will be held by the BCRU until such time as a Club ceases to be a member of the BCRU.

23.3 A new Club must post a performance bond by September 1st of the current playing year. Failure to post a performance bond shall result in a suspension of playing status and the default of scheduled games.

23.4 A member Club of the BCRU that has had all, or a portion, of its performance bond forfeited during the season must replenish it by September 1st of the current playing year. Failure to post or replenish a performance bond shall result in a suspension of playing status and the default of scheduled games.

24. Fees, Fines and Sanctions:

24.1 The BCRU has delegated to the CC the power to impose fees, fines and sanctions as deemed necessary for the operation of the Competition.

24.2 Clubs participating in the Premier Division must pay an administrative fee set annually by the CC and payable the first of January each year.

24.3.1 In addition to a Club or team missing a scheduled fixture without a confirmed cancellation or re-schedule, a default may also be declared in any Division if a team does not have a minimum of twelve (12) players dressed and on the field of play in appropriately numbered jerseys at the scheduled kickoff time as determined by the referee.

24.3.1.1 If a default is declared due to lack of players on one team, the referee may still officiate an exhibition fixture provided mutual agreement of both teams to play with reduced numbers or the lending of players. The default is still in effect even if an exhibition match is played.

24.3.2 As an exception to 24.3.1, games in Men's 3rd or Independent Divisions, and the lowest competitive division of Women's play, will not be declared a default if an exhibition fixture is completed. In this case, the Club with less than 12 players will be charged with a loss (not a default).

24.3.3 Any infraction of these Rules of Competition or those listed in the BC Match Officials Game Document may also be considered as reason for default by the offending team or teams.

24.4.1 Men's Premier Teams that default games during the regular season shall be subject to a $1,000.00 fine.

24.4.2 Men's CDI Division 1, Province-Wide Division 1, 2 or Women's Premier teams that default games during the regular season shall be subject to a $750.00 fine.

24.4.3 For all other Divisions, teams that default one game shall be subject to standing deductions as described in Section 19.6. Any subsequent defaults shall be subject to a $250.00 fine per game.

24.4.4 As an exception to 24.4.3, teams that default a game that required them to travel as the visitor (cross Strait, Coquihalla, or US border) are immediately subject to a $750.00 fine.

24.4.5 Default fines are automatically applied and payable to the BC Rugby office within seven (7) days of the date of the default. Teams that default games have the option to fill out a default dispensation form and submit to the office in lieu of fine payment within the specified time. The form will be reviewed and ruled upon at the next available meeting of the Competition Committee, and must be accompanied with a bond of $200. If no payment or correspondence is received within the seven days, the offending Club is considered to be in bad standing with BC Rugby, and may face further sanctions including the inability to compete in subsequent games until the money owing is received.

24.4.5.1 If a default dispensation is granted, the bond posted for the appeal shall be returned to the defaulting party.

24.4.6 If a Club has a game defaulted to them, they may apply in writing to the BC Rugby office for a portion or all of the collected default fine, in lieu of lost Club revenues. The application must be received within seven (7) days of a final decision on the status of the default. Payment will be made from the BC Rugby office to the Club that was defaulted to - payments will not be made direct from Club to Club.

24.5 Clubs that default games during the playoffs shall be subject to a $1,000.00 fine for each game defaulted.

24.6 Clubs participating in the Independent Club Provincial Cup shall be subject to a $750 fine if they do not give 30 days full notice of its withdrawal from the Championship.

25. Appeals and Relief from Rules:

25.1 Unless otherwise stated in these Rules, any Club, Participant or Sub-Union may apply in writing to the CC for relief from the application of the Rules. 25.2 The BCRU has delegated to the BCRU-DC the primary responsibility for all discipline matters. 25.3 The procedure and jurisdiction for appeals of decisions of the BCRU-DC and of decisions of the BCRU-CC are governed by Part 13 of the BCRU by-laws and the BCRU Appeal Rules, provided the appeal is accompanied by a bond of $200. 25.4 Decisions of the CC made pursuant to sections 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 23, and 24 of the Rules of Competition are deemed to be "Rules Based" decisions within the meaning of BCRU by-law 13 and are therefore appealable. Decisions made pursuant to all other sections of the Rules of Competition are deemed to be "Policy" decisions within the meaning of BCRU by-law 13 and are therefore not appealable. 25.5 If an appeal is successful, the bond posted for the appeal shall be returned to the appealing party.

APPENDIX “A” (Revised August, 2010) NOTE: Due to certain factors of the new league format being continually developed through the Fall of 2010, certain updates or changes to the appendix section may be made by the CC as necessary prior to January 2011. A.1.1 The Men’s Tier 1: CDI Premier and First Division League shall have no less than 7 teams and no more than 9 teams, playing a maximum of 20 games. No Club may field more than one Premier team and First division team in the same competition

A.1.2 The Men’s Tier 2: Province Wide First and Second Division League shall have no less than 7 teams and no more than 9 teams, playing a maximum of 20 games. No Club may field more than one First or Second division team in the same competition.

A.1.3 The Men’s Tier 3: Province Wide First and Second Division League shall have no less than 7 teams and no more than 9 teams, playing a maximum of 20 games. No Club may field more than one First or Second division team in the same competition.

A.1.4 The CC may review the balance of teams participating in each tier on an as-needed basis.

A.2.1 The BCRU shall set a participation fee for all Premier teams which amount shall be determined by the CC from time to time. A.3.1 The number of teams participating in the other divisions shall be determined by the Organizing committee responsible for scheduling those divisions.

A.4.1 New divisions of play may be incorporated into the structure outlined in the table below on an as-needed basis. A.5.1 Should the home Club’s schedule be reversed in the first round of Competition the schedule shall be correspondingly reversed for the second round of the Competition. If the change occurs in the second round of the Competition there is no obligation to equalize home games in the following season.

A.6.1 All clubs participating in single round spring qualifying/ league play are required to declare there participation to the BCRU office in writing no later than Oct 15,2010. The CC may review all declarations on an as-needed basis.

Promotion and Relegation:

B.1 Qualification for the Spring Premier, First and Second Division/ Leagues is to be determined on a by the BCRU in accordance with Part 14 of the Rules of Competition. Division: Area of Play and Format: C.1 A single round Men’s Premier, First, Second, Third Division competition scheduled by the BCRU in the Spring with Geographical Sub-unions in the Fall.

Men’s Third Division Fall Competition scheduled by the Geographical Sub-Unions.

Men’s Under 14,15,16,17 and U19 Fall Competition scheduled by the BCRU and Geographical Sub-Unions.

Mini Rugby Competitions scheduled by the BCRU Mini Rugby Committee.

Women’s Premier, First, Second Division Competition scheduled by the BCRU Women’s Committee.

Women’s Under 18 fall Competition scheduled by the BCRU Age Grade Committee.

Sub Union Fall geographical results may be incorporated into the Spring format for qualification or playoffs purposes.

Masters Competition scheduled by the PNW (Over 40) RU.

APPENDIX “B” BC Finals Format 1. Where both finalist teams are from the same side of the Strait of Georgia, the BCRU finals venue should be on that side of the Strait. This applies for all BCRU finals at all levels of play. This rule overrides all other rules. 2. BCRU Premier Men’s finals should be rotated yearly between the Mainland and Vancouver Island on a two Mainland / one Island basis. Subject to Rule 1 above, the Premier Men’s final and the CDI Division I final should be played together at the same venue on the same date. When a Premier or CDI Division I men’s final is redirected to the other side of the Strait, out of the

normal rotation, as a result of the application of Rule 1 (above), that match shall not count for the purpose of the 2/1 Vancouver/Vancouver Island rotation. In other words, the 2/1 rotation rule only applies with respect to those years that have finalists from both sides. The rotation started at the 2007 BC Finals in Victoria. 3. Finals venues for all competitions not covered by this formula are to be assigned by the BC Rugby CC.

APPENDIX "C" (Revised August, 2010) This section addresses the procedure that will be followed should there be a loss of more than two weekends of play in Senior Men’s and Women’s competition due to weather/field closures.

1. In the event that one or more Clubs are forced to miss more than two weekends of play due to weather restrictions on fields, the following procedure will be implemented to determine the league standings:

C.1.1 The determination of a Clubs' standing will be based on a percentage calculation of wins and losses. Bonus points will not be factored into the standing calculation, unless using a tie-breaking procedure listed below.

C.2.1 The qualification criteria for the playoffs will be adapted, with the top four Clubs playing a semi final round. 4 teams will be qualified for the playoffs, with the top seed playing the 4th seed, and the 2nd seed playing the 3rd seed. The losers of the semi final will play a consolation round

C.3.1 In the case of two teams tied at the end of the season by percentage calculation, the final standings of the two teams shall be determined by considering, in order:

the result of the game played between the two teams in the Men’s &Women’s Senior competition;

the accumulation of bonus points against common opposition;

the most tries scored in the games played between the two teams;

the score differential, points for minus points against, in the games played between the two teams;

the most tries scored in divisional play;

the score differential, points for minus points against, in divisional play;

the toss of a coin by the Chair of the CC.

C.3.2. In the case of a three-way tie at the end of the season by percentage calculation, the final standing shall be determined by considering, in order:

the most wins between the teams in the Men’s & Women’s senior competition;

the accumulation of bonus points by all teams against common opposition;

the most tries scored in divisional play;

the points differential (points for less points against) in divisional play, as between the teams involved in the three-way tie only;

if any of the steps taken above results in a two-way tie then the rules for breaking a two-way tie in Section C.3.1 shall be applied. If consideration of the points differential produces different point totals for each of the three teams involved, this shall not be considered to be a two-way tie.

2. Clubs are expected to make all efforts to play each of their fixtures as per Section 16 of the Rules of Competition. Should there be any question as to the validity of a game cancellation, the situation will be reviewed by the CC. If a Club, or Clubs, is/are found to have acted in bad faith with regards to a game cancellation, it/they will face point deductions and/or disqualification from the Competition as decided upon by the CC.

APPENDIX “D” (Added September 2010)

Memo: On behalf of the BC Rugby Competitions Committee Re: Lowest Level of Women’s Rugby Competition (Tier 2 or Division 2)

As you may be aware over the past few years the women’s second division competition in BC has evolved into a development style league with an emphasis on the spirit of competition, learning and promoting rugby among newer players.

Following the recent Women’s Proposal and town hall meetings that have occurred over the past two years we would like to remind clubs that we have set out the following guidelines for the lowest level of competition. This level of competition represents a meaningful and vibrant competition for players and coaches involved, and delegates agreed on the following:

The importance of a league at this level for the development of women’s rugby in BC. Clubs are eager to participate, but some had difficulty fielding two teams and agreed that

regardless of numbers games would be attempted in the spirit of competition and the opportunity for developing players to have actual on-field time.

Adjustments were necessary that allowed teams to avoid multiple defaults and lack of fixtures for those eager to play.

The following guidelines should be observed when your club is competing at this level:

1. Teams can play with a minimum of 12 players in order to avoid defaulting fixtures (opposing teams will match numbers down to 12)

2. Teams with less than 12 players but prepared to play the fixtures by sharing players or playing 10 or 7-a-side version games, teams without the minimum of 12 will be charged with a loss and not a default

3 a. Female athletes that have represented the Province for 3 consecutive years are restricted from playing at the lowest level of competition until 1 year of retirement from the BC program. Unless the club only has one women’s team, and there is not higher tiered team in which they can play.

3b. Female athletes that have represented Canada are restricted from playing at the lowest level of competition for 2 years after retirement if their club has a higher tiered team. A request for exemptions must be submitted in writing to the BCRU office 14 days in advance to participating in any league competition.

4. Clubs are restricted to only 3 Premier level players “playing down” in any single lower division game. In the spirit of rugby and to encourage positive competition, these players would also be required to play in a position that they do not typically play at the Premier level.

5. Teams can request de-powered scrums without penalty due to inexperience of players. The goal of this league is to develop rugby and allow newer players to compete in a league that promotes the spirit of the game and competition at level that is conducive to learning and developing rugby.

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