Six Nations inspires Rugbytots
Jordan Chamberlain
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
As the Six Nations draws to a close this weekend, with the much-anticipated final clash between England and Wales, a new generation of young children are learning how to play the game at Rugbytots.
Children aged two to seven can get involved in the sessions led by RFU-trained coaches.
Rugbytots runs classes at primary schools and sports fields throughout the country, and is also tackling the rest of the world. Having already launched franchises in other rugby playing nations such as France, Canada and New Zealand, there are even plans to start up in Dubai.
‘The Six Nations always gets youngsters excited about Rugby - they see their stars on the TV and want to have a go themselves’, said Carly Wonnacott of Rugbytots south west London.
She is eager for her young players to develop. ‘Lots of our Rugbytots members go on to play for local teams. We haven't yet seen any Six Nations stars born from Rugbytots, but watch this space,’ she said.
The scheme encourages young children to learn rugby in a safe and exciting environment and has run since 2006.
Lorna Belchambers of Rugbytots south west London, said, ‘Rugbytots helps develop children’s physical, physiological and social attributes. The classes are great for parents and children to spend time together having fun and learning valuable skills, with other likeminded families.’
Due to popular demand new classes in this region are being set up in Notting Hill, Pimlico and Hampton.
Around 30 per cent of participants are girls.
Michael Wraight’s son Toby attends the sessions in south west London. ‘Rugbytots has introduced Toby at a young age to sport in a fun and interactive way,’ he said.
Toby has developed his physical and social skills and we have seen an improvement in his interaction with other children too.’
Former England Captain Lewis Moody backs the scheme. ‘Rugbytots is fantastic,’ he said.
- Further information www.rugbytots.co.uk
