FAQ

What is Sense Rugby NZ? 

Sense Rugby NZ is an occupational therapy led and adapted rugby programme designed to help tamariki and rangatahi with additional needs develop confidence, social skills, and physical coordination in a fun and supportive environment.

Who is Sense Rugby for?

Sense Rugby was originally designed with the neurodiverse community in mind. However, our occupational therapists can support a wide range of needs, and we aim to make the programme as accessible as possible. Sense Rugby supports children and young people with a range of needs, including (but not limited to):

  • Autism

  • Dyspraxia

  • ADHD

  • Global Developmental Delay

  • Sensory Processing Disorder

  • Intellectual and physical disabilities

  • Cerebral Palsy

  • Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder 

  • Pathological Demand Avoidance 

  • Anxiety

  • Vision & Hearing Loss

  • Genetic conditions

  • Trauma backgrounds

How do I enrol my tamariki or rangatahi / child or young person in a Sense Rugby programme?

Contact us at info@senserugby.co.nz, and if a programme is available in your region, parents and caregivers can enrol their child. If no programmes are available, we will put your child’s name on a waiting list. Alternatively, enrolment may also be coordinated through the school system.

Is there a cost to participate?

Sense Rugby is free to participate, with an optional koha/donation for those who wish to contribute via our website.

Who are the facilitators, and what are their qualifications?

Sense Rugby sessions are led by OTBNZ registered, Paediatric Occupational Therapists. Our co-facilitators and volunteers have extensive experience working with children of diverse abilities and backgrounds, as well as coaching experience.

What are the benefits of the Sense Rugby programme for tamariki and rangatahi?

Sense Rugby helps children and young people develop:

  • Motor skills and coordination

  • Confidence and self-esteem

  • Teamwork and social connections

  • A sense of belonging within their community

Each session is designed to be engaging, adaptive, and beneficial for children and young people of all abilities. 

What types of programmes are available?

Sense Rugby offers three types of programmes: School, Community and Holiday Programme Intensives.

  • School Programmes: 45 minute sessions, weekly participants selected in partnership with school staff. 

  • Community Programmes: 60 minutes weekly, after school or weekends. Open to all children and young people in the community.

  • Holiday Programme Intensives: 60 minutes every day for 4-5 days during school holidays. Open to all children and young people in the community. 

Each programme generally includes two groups:

  • Tamariki (ages 4–10)

  • Rangatahi (ages 10–25)

The suitability of a child into which group also depends on the abilities and confidence of the child and the dynamics of the group. For example, ages 9 - 11 could go in either the tamariki or rangatahi group.

Where are the sessions held?

Sessions are held at various locations across New Zealand:

  • Community sessions take place at a local venue within the region, e.g. rugby clubs, school fields, or council grounds.

  • School sessions are held at one of the participating schools.

In most cases, there will be a backup venue or plan in place for bad weather.

How long do the programmes run?

Programmes usually run for 8-10 weeks, working around the New Zealand school terms.

What age does my child need to be?

Sense Rugby caters to a wide age range, from 4 to 25 years old. If your child is younger than 5 or older than 20, we assess enrollment on a case-by-case basis to ensure the best experience for everyone.

How many children are in a group?

Each group typically consists of 7 to 10 participants, depending on their needs and abilities. Sense Rugby aims to maintain a strong coach-to-participant ratio to ensure each child receives the support they need while creating an engaging and enjoyable experience.

Will they be playing tackle rugby?

No, Sense Rugby is non-contact, and we are not aiming towards playing full games of rugby. Rugby is the vehicle for sensory input - we use the tackle bags and hit shields to provide proprioceptive and vestibular input. The activities and games all have goals around turn taking, skill building and self-regulation. Sometimes, we progress to playing games of rippa rugby together, but we never tackle each other or play tackle rugby. 

What should my child bring to a session?

Children should wear comfortable sports clothing, bring a water bottle, a hat and wear appropriate footwear. Any additional equipment required will be provided at the session. We encourage families to provide food and water for breaks and any sensory or comfort toys that will help your young person feel comfortable.

Does a parent/caregiver need to attend each session?

  • School Programmes: No, as teachers and school staff will be there to support the sessions.

  • Community and Holiday Programmes: Yes, a parent or caregiver must stay for the entire session. This ensures that the session runs smoothly and you can help your young person co-regulate if they need a break.

How can I become a facilitator or volunteer?

If you're interested in becoming a facilitator or volunteer, visit the ‘Get Involved’ section on our website for more information.

How can I support or donate to Sense Rugby NZ?

Supporters can donate through the website's 'Support Us' page. Caregivers and parents will also be sent a link for the optional donation after their child has registered. Other ways to help include fundraising or volunteering at sessions.