Rugby Development

Aim

The Rugby Development Officer’s role is to develop participation in Rugby Union within the boundaries of Wrexham County Borough.

It is not an elitist approach; it is a grass roots programme in which excellence is the by-product of participation.

The job is crucial in promoting rugby development for both boys and girls at each stage of the Welsh Rugby Unions’ (WRU) rugby pathway. The implementation of a comprehensive rugby development plan has ensured maximum playing opportunities.

Background

Since 1996, close links have been forged within the community, schools and clubs resulting in the increase of player participation. This work is supplemented by the WRU coach education courses, which improve the standard of coaches within clubs and schools in addition to cultivating new coaches.

Both Wrexham County Borough Council and the Dragons Rugby Trust believe that young people can best achieve success through the principles of teamwork, good sporting behaviour, skill, leadership, fitness and fun.

Activities

How can I start playing rugby?
Wrexham Rugby Club runs coaching sessions each Sunday for all age groups, from 8 years of age up to 16 years. These sessions are run by qualified coaches at the Wrexham Rugby Club, Bryn Estyn Lane, Wrexham. Check the Wrexham Rugby Club website for further details.

How can I get involved in coaching rugby?
The Welsh Rugby Union run a series of courses to encourage parents, ex-players, teachers, to get involved in coaching rugby. The first level is a Preliminary award. After attending this course you will be able to assist in coaching rugby to young people at the club.

If you want to be more involved with rugby coaching, then you will need to attend the Level 1 rugby course. After attending this course you will be able to coach young people by yourself. However, assistance from other coaches is always encouraged.

When will the courses be held?
For further information on Rugby Coach Education courses >>

Is there any rugby played in primary schools?
35 primary schools took part in the year 5/6 Primary schools rugby World Cup tournament last year. This is a touch rugby competition. Local festivals are held in 6 different locations and the top two teams go forward to the final. The final is usually held in Wrexham Racecourse or Wrexham Rugby Club.

8 primary schools competed in the contact rugby tournament in November. This is for schools that have played rugby previously and the child can tackle safely.

Primary schools that entry the tournament can benefit by receiving equipment from the WRU, having coaching from the Rugby Development Officer and attending a coaching course aimed specifically at teachers.

Is there any rugby played in secondary schools?
Rugby is played in some of the secondary schools. Tournaments take place regularly for those schools that have a team. Any players with potential are invited to the Wrexham Rugby Club for trials.

I will visit any secondary school and give coaching free of charge, providing the school agrees to run a team. The school can also benefit from funding from the WRU for transport to fixtures and any equipment necessary.

How can I get funding for my team?
Check out the Grants section on the Sports Development web pages.

Useful Links

Wrexham Rugby Club

Official website of Wrexham Rugby Club.

Welsh Rugby Union

Official website of the WRU.

Rugby Development Officer
Waterworld
Holt Road
Wrexham
LL13 8DH

Tel: 01978 297355
Fax: 01978 297351