Relative age effects in rugby union

Abstract

A common practice in youth rugby union is to group players into (bi)annual-age categories using fixed cut-off dates. The implications are an over-representation of players born at the start of the cut-off date and the under-representation of players born towards the end of the cut-off date, which are termed relative age effects (RAEs). Due to the increasing studies exploring RAEs in rugby union, the aim of this chapter was to synthesise the existing literature to outline the mechanisms that are responsible within a sport-specific context. As such, this chapter lucidly explores (a) RAEs in male rugby union, (b) youth to senior level transitions in male rugby union, (c) RAEs in female rugby union, (d) potential RAE solutions in rugby union, and (e) future research directions. In summary, RAEs appear prevalent throughout both male and female rugby union across the globe. Further, the interaction between age, competition level, nationality, and playing position can influence the extent to which RAEs are pronounced. Finally, it appears inconsistencies arise when exploring the youth to senior level transition, including reversal effects and knock-on effects. Recommendations for future research include (a) further examination of female RAEs and participation trends, (b) qualitative studies exploring developmental trajectories, and (c) developing, implementing, and evaluating possible RAE solutions.