Trash Talk

 Hi Ref,

Is trash talk illegal in Rugby games?

As a ref, should I penalize the trash talker? Based on which law?

Here, the trash talks are not dirty talks. For example, “the hooker cannot throw straight” during a line out; they play like a kids….

Stuff like that.

Bly

Regards

Hi Bly

This will depend to some degree on which country you are in, but is also covered in Law.

In England the RFU have rugby values, or TREDS.

Teamwork:  Respect:  Enjoyment:  Discipline:  Safety 

These are the values that players, coaches and referees should be adhering to.  Stepping outside these values is against the spirit of the game.

The rugby values are covered in law by Law 9.27

Law 9 Foul Play

27. A player must not do anything that is against the spirit of good sportsmanship.

 The sanction for breaking Law 9.27 is a Penalty, but referees should manage this in the first instance by reminding the players of the core values of the game, then escalating if necessary.  Ask, Tell, Penalise.

Thanks

The Rugby Ref