Rugby: Bay of Plenty to host junior coaching

Bay of Plenty Rugby is running a training day for children tomorrow. Photo / File

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Rugby

An open training session will be held tomorrow

Little Steamers Rugby is a pilot programme for 3 to 4-year-olds and will be run across five locations in the Western Bay of Plenty from March 3 for six weeks. The programme is structured to promote and educate parents and/or guardians to be active with their children.

Sessions are hosted by Bay of Plenty Rugby Union in partnership with Key Skills Recruitment.

The content of the programme will be facilitated by Bay of Plenty Rugby High Performance players including a selection of Steamers, Volcanix and Academy players. During the one-hour session, trainers will deliver a fun, active session focusing on skills and fun rugby-related games.

The programme has been designed to assist the growth and development of a child's cognitive, physical, social and emotional wellbeing. For parents, the programme will provide the opportunity to engage with their child to develop as a positive role model, learn skills and activities, and be able to motivate their child in an active and positive environment.

Bay of Plenty Rugby chief executive Mike Rogers said rugby could play an important role in encouraging healthy living.

"We are always looking for ways we can use rugby to support families and be proactive in assisting our community to live a healthy and active lifestyle."

Key Skills Recruitment general manager Ati Aaifou-Olive said the activitieswere beneficial for both children and adults.

"The New Zealand Ministry of Health believes parents should encourage all children to be active from birth.

"With this programme, it is beneficial for both kids and adults. The kids will be able to learn to respect their peers, work together as a team and establish social skills while engaging with their parents/caregivers. It is the perfect family activity to be a part of."

Little Steamers programme details:
Start: March 3-April 7
Time: 8.30am-9.30am
Locations: Greerton Marist Park, Tauranga Domain, Blake Park, Gordon Spratt Reserve, Murray Salt Stadium
Registration fee: $35 per child (child must be guided by full parent/caregiver)
Details: www.boprugby.co.nz