A 9-year-old boy was told this week that he can no longer play age-grade rugby with his friends as he’s over the weight limit. 

The Year 4 student was one of 106 children who applied for a weight dispensation in the Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union club competition – and after being denied, has opted out of playing any winter sport this year. 

The union says structures are in place to ensure player safety and fairness in competition. 

Sport NZ’s National Sport Development Consultant Andy Rogers joined Piney to discuss how to avoid barriers for kids in sport. 

He told Piney every young person should have the opportunity to enjoy and benefit from being active. 

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