Yes. U8’s and U9’s match rules are modified to minimise risk. There is no tackling in U8s, nor is kicking the ball off the ground permitted.  Experienced coaching personnel and umpires keep a close watch on the game to ensure that unduly rough play is controlled and managed. It is rare to have serious injuries occur in very young age groups. For U9s and U10s the following ‘Modified Tackle’ rules apply: a player in possession of the ball may be tackled by an opponent wrapping both arms around the area below the top of the shoulders and on/above the knees. The tackle may be from either side or from behind, providing the tackle from behind does not thrust forward player with the ball (i.e. push the player in the back). Bumping is not allowed. There will also be a reduced numbers of players on the field for U8s (9 player on field) and U9s (15 players). Oval sizes will be smaller.