For decades, rugby has been synonymous with power, collisions, and intensity. But a faster, safer, and more inclusive alternative is sweeping across South Africa: Tag Rugby. This minimal-contact version of the sport retains all the excitement and strategic play of traditional rugby while making the game more accessible to men, women, and children of all ages.
With the 2026 Tag World Cup fast approaching, South Africa is preparing to take center stage in a sport that is growing rapidly at grassroots and elite levels. From junior development programs to the fiercely competitive Tag Premier League (TPL), the Tag Rugby Association has created a clear pathway for athletes aiming to represent their country on the world stage.
What is Tag Rugby?
Tag Rugby eliminates the heavy tackles and scrums of traditional rugby, replacing them with a fast-paced, skill-based format where players remove a tag from an opponent’s belt instead of bringing them to the ground.
This format makes Tag Rugby an inclusive sport, suitable for players of all skill levels, including children, social players, and professional athletes. The lack of high-impact collisions also reduces the risk of injury, making it an ideal introduction to rugby for younger players.
The game’s mixed-gender format is another unique feature, allowing men and women to compete together on the same team, further promoting gender equality in sport.
The Growth of Tag Rugby Juniors
One of the most exciting aspects of Tag Rugby in South Africa is its focus on junior development. The sport has been successfully introduced in schools and communities, providing a safe and engaging way for children to learn rugby fundamentals.
The Tag Rugby Junior program is designed to:
Introduce children to rugby without the risks of tackling.
Develop core skills like passing, evasion, and teamwork.
Create a fun and inclusive environment for boys and girls to play together.
Serve as a talent pipeline for future rugby players, including those who may transition to contact rugby.
With a growing number of junior leagues and school tournaments, the sport is becoming a breeding ground for the next generation of rugby talent.
The Road to the 2026 Tag World Cup
As South Africa gears up for the 2026 Tag World Cup, the Tag Rugby Association has outlined a clear pathway for players who want to compete at the highest level.
Step 1: Join a Tag Rugby League
Players must start by competing in an official Tag Rugby® League, which serves as the first step in the selection process. The 2025 Summer League kicks off on February 9, providing an opportunity for emerging players to showcase their talent.
Step 2: Earn a Spot in the High-Performance Academy
Players who impress in the leagues will be invited to the High-Performance Academy, where they will receive specialized training in fitness, game strategy, and skills development.
Step 3: Enter the TPL XXV Draft
The Tag Premier League (TPL) is South Africa’s national-level competition, serving as the key selection event for the 2026 World Cup squad. Registration for the TPL XXV Draft opens on February 10, 2025, allowing players to enter the talent pool for national selection.
Step 4: Compete in TPL XXV
The TPL XXV tournament, set for April 12-13, 2025, in Cape Town, is where South Africa’s best Tag Rugby players will compete for selection. Those who make the cut will represent South Africa at the 2026 Tag World Cup.
Eligibility: Who Can Represent South Africa?
To ensure a fair and competitive national selection process, the Tag Rugby Association has put strict eligibility criteria in place:
South African Citizenship
Players must be South African citizens with a valid passport at the time of trials.
If they don’t have a passport, they must possess a South African ID card and apply for a passport within three months.
Participation in National Competitions
Players must compete in the Tag Premier League (TPL) or, if no league is held that year, attend national trials.
These measures ensure that the best talent represents the country at the highest level of competition.
The Inclusion of Women and Mixed Teams
One of the defining characteristics of Tag Rugby is its commitment to gender inclusivity. The sport allows for men’s, women’s, and mixed-gender teams, providing equal opportunities for female athletes to compete at the highest level.
The Future of Tag Rugby in South Africa
With an expanding junior program, increasing national participation, and a structured pathway to the Tag World Cup, the future of Tag Rugby in South Africa looks bright.
The sport is no longer just a social or corporate team-building activity—it is a legitimate and competitive discipline that offers players a pathway to international success. As preparations for the 2026 Tag World Cup intensify, players and fans alike can expect bigger competitions, higher stakes, and greater recognition for South Africa on the global stage.
Are you ready to be part of South Africa’s Tag Rugby revolution?
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