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Youth Rugby Soaring in Oregon and SW Washington

04/28/2014, 12:15pm PDT
By admin

Rugby in Oregon and Southwest Washington is being embraced by a younger generation as boys and girls as young as 8 join in programs operated by Rugby Oregon. They're bringing their parents along, too.

Rugby Oregon began with a mission to push participation in -- and enthusiasm for -- rugby down to high schools, where a generation of young people weren't being exposed to the sport. That push helped create a broad and successful statewide youth rugby program, where high school students from Pendleton to Corvallis play organized matches each weekend. Many go on to play in college and adult leagues.

And now the organization is pushing to a younger generation still.

Participation among youth grades 3-8 is soaring, up 80 percent over 2013. This is a direct result of the school outreach work led by Rugby Oregon's Troy Hall, who has proven to be an effective evangelist for the sport. The growth is also a reflection of the values Rugby Oregon fosters: teamwork, respect, sportsmanship and inclusivity.

Bringing the sport to younger players requires some innovations, so Rugby Oregon has introduced a touch rugby program. Over time, players progress to ruck touch, then tackle rugby. Young players also play the 7s version of the game.

The youngest players' enthusiasm has spread to their parents as well. Even parents who were unfamiliar with the sport have joined in as coaches, referees and supporters, with many adopting the traditional post-match social. They, like their children, are learning to cultivate fair play and positive rugby.

A good way for young players and their parents to sample the sport is to join in Rugby Oregon's summer camps, where players of all levels of experience and skill can hone their skills in a fun, relaxed and supportive environment.  For schedules and registration information, click here.

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