Red Star's Rams join VIP Club

Masterton Red Star Rugby Club's Rams junior advisory board teams have signed a contract which makes them official members of the NZRU's Small Blacks VIP Club.
The innovation involves 180 players of both genders in age groups ranging from under-6yrs to under-13yrs and also requires the support of coaches and parents.
The contract has 10 stated objectives: Improve skills, applaud the performance of both teams, give all players the opportunity to participate in the game, praise efforts not results, create an enjoyable and safe environment, encourage sporting behaviour, play for enjoyment, play hard but fair, be committed to the team and attend practices and matches.
Participating teams receive Small Blacks VIP wrist bands and there are also player of the week certificates and trophies which are handed out on a weekly basis.
Masterton Red Star JAB chairman Peter Semmens said each of the Rams teams were actively encouraged to follow the principles laid down in their contract.
"The whole idea is to get kids to enjoy their rugby, and be competitive at the same time," Semmens said.
"And that comes easier if coaches and parents are on the same wavelength too. We want everybody involved to buy into the concept because it's good for the game."