The Vodacom United Rugby Championship is thrilled to announce the return of Kids Round, a celebration of the next generation of rugby fans where stadiums will be transformed into spaces for young supporters to experience the game like never before.
Taking place in Round 16 (April 24 & 25), Kids Round is all about putting children at the heart of the action — not just in the stands, but across the entire matchday experience. From the first whistle to the final play, this is rugby through the eyes of its youngest fans.
Across the weekend, kids won’t just be watching, they’ll be running the show.
Young fans will step into a range of unforgettable matchday roles, from Player of the Match interviewer to mini-referee at the coin toss, as well as behind-the-scenes experiences like Kit Manager, content creator, camera operator, press conference reporter and PA announcer.
Our clubs and sponsors have fully embraced the campaign, creating exciting opportunities for children to get involved and making matchday a truly memorable family experience. Across our territories, young fans can enjoy unique activities including mascot meet-and-greets, half-time kicking challenges, kids’ sleepovers and much more.
It’s a full stadium takeover, bringing kids closer to the game than ever before.
But Kids Round is about more than just the action on the pitch — it’s about creating moments that spark a lifelong love of rugby.
Rugby is a sport for everyone — and Kids Round is a chance to show just how welcoming, inclusive and exciting the game can be. By opening the doors wider for young fans, the Vodacom URC is helping to inspire the next generation to not only watch the game, but to fall in love with it.
Because once you experience rugby live, there’s nothing quite like it.
Speaking about Kids Round, United Rugby Championship CEO Martin Anayi said:
“As a parent, I know how powerful sport can be in shaping young lives and creating lasting memories. Kids Round is about giving children that first real connection to rugby — the chance to come to the stadium, see their heroes up close, feel the energy, and fall in love with the game.
We want every young fan to feel like this is their sport and their moment. Whether it’s their first match or one of many, this is their chance to be part of something special — to come and see their heroes, come and see the action, and hopefully begin a lifelong journey with rugby.
“Rugby is for everyone — especially Kids! ”
Let the next generation lead the way. Let the takeover begin. #KidsRound
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The French national rugby team is known as Les Bleus.