Introducing walk-on music in ITRA leagues

“Run this Town” is an example of a permitted walk-on song due to its implied promotion of continuous attacking play

Following recent player feedback and as part of our ongoing efforts to enhance the overall matchday experience, ITRA is pleased to introduce a Walk-On Music Protocol, which will be trialled on a pilot basis across selected leagues and venues for the 2026 season as of Monday 13th April.

This initiative has been informed by a controlled trial and forms part of a broader review into player engagement and atmosphere at fixtures.

Walk-On Music Protocol – Key Guidelines

Eligibility

• Walk-on music may be used prior to a team’s first possession of the game only

• A minimum of 5 players must be present on the pitch, including at least one female player in mixed leagues, in order to activate the walk-on

• Teams who do not meet the above criteria must enter the field of play without music

Venue Restrictions

Due to residential considerations in certain venues, walk-on music will be limited toapproved venues only.

• Permitted at designated enclosed or low-impact noise facilities, e.g. Drumcondra, Clontarf

• Not permitted at residential-adjacent pitches after 20:00, e.g. Ranelagh, Rathgar

Referees retain discretion to reduce volume levels or usage where necessary.

Approved Song List

To ensure consistency with the ethos of tag rugby, teams must select from an approved list of tracks containing references to running, scoring, or positive competitive play.

Examples of approved tracks include:

• “Eye of the Tiger” – strong performance/intensity theme

• “Run This Town” – running/play progression

• “Can’t Hold Us” – attacking momentum

• “We Will Rock You” – crowd engagement

• “Don’t Stop Me Now” – continuous play

• “Take Me Out” – defensive intent

Additional songs may be submitted for review via venue managers.

Content Restrictions

The following will not be permitted:

• Explicit or offensive language

• Excessive references to physical contact inconsistent with the non-contact nature of the sport, e.g. “Take Me Out” where “Take Me Out” refers to making contact

• Tracks exceeding recommended warm-up tempo thresholds

Timing & Enforcement

• Maximum duration: 20 seconds

• Music must cease immediately on the referee’s whistle

• Non-compliance may result in removal of walk-on privileges or managed entry without audio support

We appreciate your cooperation as we continue to trial new initiatives aimed at improving the player experience across all leagues.

If you have any questions, please contact your venue managers in the first instance.