Your child's first interclub.

Your kid's coach says they're ready for their first interclub — and you're somewhere between proud and terrified. Both are correct. Here's exactly what you're saying yes to.

First, the question you're actually asking

Is it safe? An interclub is the most controlled environment in the sport — deliberately built for exactly this moment. It is not a fight. There are no winners or losers declared, no knockouts, and the rules for juniors are strict and strictly enforced:

• No head contact for under-15s (some events set it at 14). This is the rule at every UK interclub we list, and referees stop bouts over it.
• Body shields — younger kids wear padded chest protectors on top of everything else.
• Light, controlled contact only — the referee's whole job is stopping anything that drifts heavy. A coach whose fighter goes too hard embarrasses their gym; the culture polices itself.
• Matched bouts — your child faces a kid of similar age, size and experience, usually pre-arranged between coaches who know their fighters.

Most parents come away saying the same thing: it was calmer and friendlier than they expected, and their kid was buzzing for a week.

What the day looks like

Junior bouts usually run first — expect an early start (weigh-in or registration is often 8:30–10am; check your event's listing). Then some waiting around, so bring snacks and something to do. When it's their turn: three short rounds (often 3 × 1 minute for juniors), glove touch, thank the ref, done. Many events give medals or trophies to every junior who competes — worth knowing so you can act surprised.

Budget-wise: fighter entry is typically £5–10, spectators £5–10 each, plus burger-van money. The whole day usually costs a family less than a cinema trip.

The kit your child needs

Your gym may lend some of this for a first event — ask the coach before buying anything. But most families end up owning it, and entry-level is absolutely fine. (Links go to Amazon — as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. It helps keep the site free.)

• Junior gum shield £3–10 — non-negotiable at every event. Opro do junior sizes; boil-and-bite is fine.
• Kids' gloves £15–30 — typically 6–10oz for ages 5–10, 12oz for 11–14. Your event listing or coach will confirm the size.
• Kids' shin guards £15–25 — required everywhere. Get ones that strap securely; loose guards ruin a kid's day.
• Body shield / chest guard £15–30 — required for younger juniors at most events. Gyms often lend these, so ask first.
• Groin guard £8–15 — required for boys at most events.

Full checklist with adult sizes on our main kit guide.

How to be a good interclub parent

• Cheer every kid, not just yours. The loudest applause of the day should be for the most nervous child in the building.
• Don't coach from the sidelines. One voice in their corner — their coach. Two voices is confusing; yours shouting "GET 'EM" is worse than confusing.
• Trust the referee. If it looks like the ref stopped things early — good. That's the system working, not your child being robbed.
• Win or lose doesn't exist here. There's no decision. The only question afterwards is "did you enjoy it?" — ask that, not "did you win?"
• Nerves are normal — including yours. Every parent in that sports hall felt it their first time. It gets easier, and watching your kid's confidence grow makes it worth it.