Fequently asked questions
1
Can my child join if they have never played rugby before?
Yes! Beginners are always welcome at USP. Our coaches help children learn the game, build confidence and make friends, with activities suited to their age and experience. Contact us through our 'Join Us' page so we can introduce you to the appropriate team.
2
Do we need a connection to the Armed Forces to join?
No. We welcome families from across the local community. You do not need a military or service connection to join USP.
3
What age group will my child join?
Your child's age group is normally based on their age at midnight on 31 August at the start of the season. For example, a child aged seven on that date would normally join the Under 8's.
Send us your child's date of birth through our join us enquiry and we will help you find the right group.
4
Can girls join?
Yes, girls are welcome. Contact us with your child's details using the join us inquiry and we will explain the appropriate team and playing opportunities.
5
Can my child try a session before we commit to joining?
Contact us via the 'join us' page. We will confirm the session, introduce you to the coaching team and explain our current taster arrangements, including any cost and information we need beforehand.
6
Where and when do you training?
Our home training venue is HMS Temeraire, Burnaby Road, Portsmouth. Our usual training is held on Thursday 18:00 - 19:00, Sundays 09:30 - 12:30 (times varying for individual age groups).
7
What should my child wear and bring?
For a first session, being:
- Comfortable sports clothing suitable for the weather
- Appropriate footwear for the '3G pitches'
- A named water bottle
- A warm or waterproof layer (depending on the weather)
- Any medication your child needs
Ask the team manager about boots, mouthguards and any age-specific equipment before attending. They can also explain when club kit is needed and how to order it.
9
How much does membership cost?
For the 2026/27 season, membership is £120 for the first child and £60 for each additional child.
A monthly payment option is available at £10 per month for the first child, and £5 for each additional child over 12 months.
For new members joining mid-season we ask them to pay months from the commencement of their membership.
8
Does my child have to tackle?
Under 7's and 8's play non-contact tag rugby. Tackling is introduced from Under 9's, with the game developing gradually through the age groups.
If your child is worried about contact, speak to the coach before the session so they can explain how it is introduced and supported.
9
How much does membership cost?
For the 2026/27 season, membership is £120 for the first child and £60 for each additional child.
A monthly payment option is available at £10 per month for the first child, and £5 for each additional child over 12 months.
For new members joining mid-season we ask them to pay months from the commencement of their membership.
10
How do I register my child with the RFU?
Once your child has joined USP. Your team manager will explain club membership, payment and registration.
Players must register annually with England RFU through their Game Management System (GMS). Parents or guardians normally complete this for their children. We can help if you are new to GMS or already have an account with another club.
The official England RFU guidance can be found at this link.
11
Do I need to stay during training and matches?
The club requests that a parent, guardian or responsible adult to be present for all training sessions and matches for child aged 15 and under. We request that parents do not leave their child without confirming who is responsible for them and agreeing contact arrangements with the team maanger and coach.
12
Once I join the club, how will I receive updates?
The Minis and Junior section uses Spond for team announcements, training invitations, fixtures and changes to arrangements. Your team manager will explain how to join the appropriate group.
Please respond to event invitations promptly so coaches can plan sessions and organise teams.
13
What happens if the weather is bad?
We may adjust or cancel a session if the weather or pitch conditions make it unsuitable. As USP has an artifical pitch we rarely lose training sessions or fixtures due to pitch conditions. Any amendments to the agreed scheduled will be communicated via Spond.
14
Will my child play matches and attend festivals?
Teams take part in age-appropriate fixtures and festivals during the season. Opportunities vary by age group and the team's program.
Your team manager will share dates, venues and arrival times through Spond.
15
Can I take photographs or share pictures from rugby?
Please check with the team managers before taking photographs or filming. Follow the club's photography and social media policy, respect other families' preferences and avoid posting images of other children without the appropriate permission.
Tell the team manager if you do not want your child to be photographed or included in club publicity.
16
What behaviour is expected from players, parents and spectators?
We ask everyone to help create a welcoming and enjoyable rugby environment. Encourage effort, respect team mates and opponents, and support coaches and match officials.
Please raise questions or concerns calmly with the team manager. Players, parents and spectators are expected to follow the club's codes of conduct.
17
How do I volunteers to help at the club?
USP welcomes all volunteers as the club would not run without them. Opportunities to volunteer include coaching, team administration, club administration and fund raising.
You do not need rugby experience for any of these roles. USP will help you learn on the way and the wider England RFU provides training. Please speak to your team manager, or contact the club directly if you would like to volunteer.