Tag League is a fast, exciting non-tackling alternative to Rugby League, designed for players of all skill levels. Similar to other tag sports, but with its own unique style, Tag League offers a safer, more free-flowing game that still captures the speed, strategy and fun of traditional Rugby League.
The sport is played on a 70m x 50m field, with two Tag League fields fitting on one standard rugby or soccer pitch—perfect for local competitions and community sport.
Each team fields eight players at a time. All players wear Tag League shorts fitted with Velcro patches and detachable tags. A defender removes the tag (instead of making a tackle) to stop the ball carrier. This creates a safer, low-contact environment while keeping the game fast-paced and highly competitive.
Tag League uses a six-tag (six-play) system similar to Rugby League’s six tackles. The attacking side has six opportunities to score a try or gain as much field position as possible.
Because tags are positioned on each hip, they can be tricky to remove, making the game unpredictable, exciting and skill-focused. There are no phantom tag calls: you’re either tagged, or you’re not.
All the core Rugby League skills apply in Tag League:
Kicking in general play is permitted as long as it stays below the referee’s shoulder height. Chip-and-chase kicks are allowed if the kicker regathers, adding a dynamic attacking option.
Because defenders must avoid contact, fast hands, cut-out balls and around-the-corner passes are highly effective. When a player hits a gap at speed, clean breaks are frequent.
Tag League is designed as a low to medium contact sport.
Attackers must run at gaps, not defenders.
Defenders must not impede or bump attackers.
The player who initiates contact is penalised.
This ensures a fair, fast, free-flowing game suitable for beginners, returning players, and families.
