Photos: Sunday National Youth Rugby Program

Youth rugby in Bermuda is going from strength to strength. The sport is dedicated to its core values; Respect, Sportsmanship, Teamwork, Enjoyment and Discipline and these core values resonate in everything the sport does for our youth.

Around two hundred children regularly participate in the BRFU’s Sunday Rugby national youth program from 10am – 12pm at the National Sports Centre each week. The warm atmosphere offered to the youngsters immediately puts smiles on faces and the culture of the program allows parents to feel part of this growing sport.

The children, from a wide diversity of backgrounds take part in age-grade rugby starting at Under 6s through to Under 19s age groups. With the younger ages, where the game is a non-contact “flag rugby” format, the volunteer coaches focus on the basic skills of Rugby through running a series of drills focus on handling, movement, evasion techniques and understanding the rules of the game. With over sixty children in the U6 age group alone, it is quite a spectacle to see.

The slideshow below contains 60 photos of this weekend’s youth rugby action:

The older age groups begin to focus on the contact areas of the game and learn tackling techniques, rucking, mauling and the more complex areas of the sport however, the sessions are extremely well run and the numerous coaches, many of whom are ex [or current] rugby players themselves, ensure the youngsters are taught is a safe and enjoyable environment. Girls are encouraged to participate up to U14s in the co-ed sessions and thereafter in girls-only training and matches.

The cost of registration, which includes a rugby jersey, is only $50 for the season. Each child receives a free hot-dog and drink at the end of each session as a reward for all their hard work and to allow the kids to talk about their mornings achievements.

The hot dogs, teas and coffees are served by some committed parents who are similarly dedicated to the core values of the sport and extend the family atmosphere to parents and children alike.

The season runs from November to the end of March. In January, the Sunday program will be undertaking a league structure for all ages U8 and above – a sponsor for which is currently being sought.

For further questions regarding the sport or if you are interested in your child joining the program, please contact Patrick Calow [pcalow@brfu.bm or 595 9309].

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Category: All, Photos, Sports, Sports