Over 80 Primary School children in Sherburn in Elmet have recently been learning about the Sport of Rugby League
Report: By Nick Settle, Leeds Rugby Foundation’s North Yorkshire Schools Coordinator
The coaching led schools festival was held at Sherburn High where the day was packed with top coaching sessions from secondary school pupils currently studying for their Sport Leaders UK qualification. The students were also joined by Nick Settle, Leeds Rugby Foundation’s North Yorkshire Schools Coordinator who helped run the festival.
The day was made even more memorable with the presence of both Leeds Rhinos and Castleford Tigers as well as the two mascots of both respective clubs. In addition to this the Rhinos brought along with them the Super League trophy for children to have their picture taken with and see the famous piece of silverware up-close.
Before making the step up to full contact rugby, the children were being introduced to the sport through learning the basic skills of Tag Rugby. Tag is a great way to be initiated to the sport of Rugby and involves key fundamental movements for children to develop as a whole.
It is hoped that this is just the start of the children’s playing careers and many go on to join Sherburn Bears Amateur Rugby League club.
It was an action-packed afternoon of coaching and games. The students from Sherburn High have linked the programme to their Sports Leaders UK programme which is a nationally recognised qualification aimed at building on the skills needed for pupils to gain employment and volunteer opportunities within the community.
The afternoon drew to a conclusion with Nick Settle making a presentation where each child received club contact information and a host of goodies.
Nick commented: “This project has worked brilliantly, well done to all involved the Sherburn Cluster of Primary Schools are all very proactive with regards to PE and School Sport.
“Projects such as these make a huge difference to our district and especially the young people involved. The more sports children can experience the better as each sport will help each child develop socially and physically.
“It is now hoped these children will make the jump from school to joining a community club in the region. My thanks go to the dedicated volunteers that supported the event.”
For anyone who is interested in joining a local Amateur club please contact Selby Community Rugby League Coach Adam Prentis on 07557430347 or visit www.northyorkshirerl.co.uk/<http://www.northyorkshirerl.co.uk/.