USA Rugby adopts T1 as official non-contact game ahead of home World Cups

USA Rugby and USA Youth & High School Rugby have formally adopted T1 Rugby as the official non-contact version of the game in the United States, in a move designed to boost participation ahead of the men’s and women’s Rugby World Cups on American soil in 2031 and 2033.

Developed by World Rugby and launched in 2023, T1 replaces tackling with touches or flags while retaining rugby’s core principles. Played seven-a-side on a half-pitch, the format is aimed at schools, clubs and youth organisations as an accessible entry point into the sport.

USA Youth & High School Rugby Executive Director Giovanni Vaglietti believes the format can become a key driver of growth across the country.

“T1 is uniquely suited to be rugby’s major growth mechanism for mass participation within the United States,” said Vaglietti.

“As clubs and SYROs extend outreach into local recreation departments, PE curriculums and after-school programs nationwide; T1 gives newly introduced kids a natural landing spot as a non-contact, low-barrier way to play.

“From there, a local T1 league ties directly back into the club and SYRO ecosystem, turning that first introduction into a love for the game that lasts forever.”

World Rugby Development Director Jason Lewis said the game had already gained significant traction globally since its launch.

“With over 90 national unions already playing and trialling T1 Rugby since its 2023 launch, the game is proving to be a powerful universal tool for youth engagement and retention,” said Lewis.

“The formal adoption by USA Rugby and USA Youth and High Schools marks a significant global milestone, reinforcing how non-contact formats can successfully scale across diverse markets and inspire rugby development worldwide.”

While T1 is intended to attract newcomers, administrators are also positioning it as a format for existing players looking for a lower-impact version of the game.

“T1 gives clubs and SYROs a real answer for how to grow the game – a non-contact, mixed-gender format that prioritizes a positive first experience to the game,” Vaglietti added.

“T1 also provides great flexibility that both experienced and new players can play together, have fun and be on the same team.”

USA Rugby CEO Bill Goren said the governing body viewed the initiative as an important step in expanding rugby’s reach in the build-up to the two World Cups.

“It goes without saying, but Rugby is an amazing sport that offers unique opportunities and experiences to people from all walks of life,” said Goren.

“We’re excited to partner with USA Youth & High School Rugby on the launch of T1 Rugby, to open a new door for people to find and fall in love with the game.

“The adaptable and welcoming nature of T1 is a great avenue for youth programs and organizations to add rugby into their current curriculums and enjoy the experience themselves.

“As we look ahead to Rugby World Cup 2031 and 2033, these entry points to rugby are key to growing interest and participation over the next decade.”

Several State Youth Rugby Organisations, including Florida, NorCal, North Carolina, Texas and Illinois, have already committed to introducing T1 into their youth programmes. USA Rugby and USA Youth & High School Rugby will also roll out coaching and educational resources, with all non-contact coaching materials set to transition to the T1 curriculum by 2027.