Grays Teamsports’ Post

Let’s Get Behind School Rugby Throughout the course of this week, the National Schools’ Rugby Sevens will see over 14,000 players in over 1000 teams compete in a variety of competitions. Some are here to win it, some aiming to progress further than before and others participating for the experience. Whilst Rugby is addressing legitimate challenges, it is also a game that continues to capture the imagination of large numbers. The era of compulsory rugby is long gone, and these children are participating because they love the game. It never was a sport for everyone, but continues to be one which enriches the lives of many, providing lifelong memories and friendships. There is something captivatingly attractive about Rugby, though its leaders are curiously reluctant to articulate its benefits more widely. Those of us who have been positively impacted by the game have to be more vocal in our support: the modern game is a niche experience, with unique benefits and challenges. But, those who love it, love it as much as they ever did. Let’s get behind school Rugby - and lifelong friendships

𝗙𝗜𝗫𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘𝗦 𝗜 The 2024 Sportsman's Warehouse Premier Interschools season kicks off this weekend, promising another thrilling chapter in the traditional KZN rivalry between two formidable schoolboy rugby teams, Glenwood High School and Maritzburg College 🏉 Which team are you backing? 🔴🟢🟡 OR 🔴⚫️⚪️ Unlock the complete 2024 rugby season fixture list for the Sharks High Schools' Rugby Association now! Simply visit our website and click on the 𝗗𝗜𝗚𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗟 𝗠𝗔𝗚𝗔𝗭𝗜𝗡𝗘𝗦 tab to get your free copy today!! #pegasuspublishing

Admittedly, I had a knee jerk reaction when I saw all the pink and purple in the World Rugby initiative Rugby Rising Play. (Sidenote: at 42 years old I'm working on understanding my own conditioning against societally identified "girlie things".) But looking at the broader negative reactions to this promo, reinforced self-reflection regarding my initial reaction and how that conflicts with my genuine belief about the sport of rugby - Women and girls are diverse, and all types of folks play and enjoy rugby. I have arrived here: This promo video is a good reminder that we need many different paths to entry into the game that make all people and children feel comfortable to join the game. Rugby is not just about being tough, it is also about finesse, tactics, style, and evolving as a game - and for that we need all kinds of people to join. If there is a sector of girls that will see this and feel that rugby is a place where they may belong - as fans or as athletes - it is a good thing and I applaud it. Women and girls are NOT a monolith, even in a tenacious sport. Some of the best athletes I coached only ever participated in theater or cheerleading or music and they applied their focus and became amazing rugby players. We as a rugby community have to reach our hands out to every type of person and let them decide if they want to be a part of the community. This World Rugby promo is an example of that. And YES, rugby needs fans! So even when people try rugby and find that playing the sport isn't for them, there is still a place for them as a fan. As for the fandom, children - especially girls, can find strength in watching others display their toughness. We allow boys who have never played Pee-Wee Football (little kids American football) to watch and admire the NFL players each week. We see how it makes them feel powerful and confident, so why not girls and rugby? Are we, as a rugby community, defining little girls who like pink, purple, and sparkles and resigning them to be moms and caretakers only?!? If so, that is absolute rubbish. So let's broaden the circle - that's what the women+ of this game have been doing. You should continue to follow our lead.

Yesterday, I had the pleasure in my capacity as DoR at Farnham Rugby Club spend some time with the Director of Rugby from Guildford Rugby Club - Aidan Turns. A great meeting (as all the previous meetings from my local clubs have been) and enlightening on so many fronts!! A couple of headlines... 1. The Reality of Building a Rugby Legacy - Guildford Rugby Club has evolved from humble beginnings in 1922 to a thriving hub for rugby excellence. This growth is a testament to the dedication of players, coaches, volunteers and its community. 2. We discussed the Do’s and Don’ts of Rugby Club development... Don’ts: ❌ Don’t overlook the importance of youth development. ❌ Don’t neglect facility upgrades. ❌ Don’t be afraid to be a leader - deal with all manner of day to day ‘rugby stuff’ that lacks integrity or not within our sports values. Do’s: ✅ Invest in youth rugby (girls & boys) - it's important!!. ✅ Continuously upgrade facilities and look after your finances robustly. ✅ Foster a sense of community - always!! Guildford Rugby Club’s success stems from these core principles and in no small measure I am sure, down to Aidan and his team. Good luck over the forthcoming season (not to much luck - obviously🙏😂😂)!! #RugbySuccess #GuildfordRugby #ClubDevelopment #RugbyLegacy #GuildfordRugby #Commitment

The old 'can-do attitude' extends from my professional life into my personal life! ⚡ If I have my sights set on achieving a goal, you best believe I will do everything in my power to accomplish it. If you have a moment, check out the story below by Chris Pike (feels a little like my autobiography)!

The importance of holistically developing professional athletes in practice...

Curious about the IB at Rugby School? Check out this video featuring 4 students who share their honest experiences from their two-year IB experience. Get real insights into the challenges, achievements, and unforgettable moments of their IB journey. Don't miss it! Watch now: https://lnkd.in/eDWtnqRp #wholepersonwholepoint

Well done Bernard . Giving back is essential.

Have a read of this if you want to know more about we do at BF Sports Analysis!

𝐓𝐨𝐩 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 (Sports) 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 Irish Rugby Coach, Andy Farrell, on spotting a nervous Calvin Nash ahead of his starting debut against France last week: AF: "You've been quiet this week..." CN: "How has he spotted this?"  AF: "What are you going to do in attack? CN: answers in detail AF: "What are you going to do in defence?" CN: answers in detail AF: "There you go, there’s all the answers; just be yourself." Really nice example of helping someone else to focus their attention in the right areas via questioning... providing some certainty in a threatening situation. #performance #coaching