The Ospreys Community Development team have helped one of Swansea's leading clubs to launch two new junior teams for the coming season.
Bonymaen RFC are looking to establish sides at Under-8 and Under-10 level for 2010/11, and Ben Rose, Ospreys Development Officer for Swansea, led a recruitment campaign in the club’s catchment area, which saw him visiting local schools and hosting a special development night with a view to encouraging more local children to take up rugby.
In the build up to the development event at Parc Mawr, he went to St Thomas, Pentrechwyth, Talycopa, and Danygraig primary schools to deliver a short coaching session to whet the youngster’s appetites for rugby before inviting them along to Bonymaen RFC.
Fifteen children then attended the development evening, signing up to play for the club next season.
Jason Lewis, WRU Ospreys Community Development Manager, commented:
“Bonymaen RFC is a traditional rugby club that is very much at the heart of its local community, with a strong set-up that has always run numerous junior teams. Like many other clubs though, the ongoing recruitment of young players is something of an ongoing struggle in the modern climate with children having so many other attractions and also, not so much organised rugby taking place in schools anymore.
“Having approached us for assistance, we have worked with them to help create some interest and excitement about rugby among local children, the result of which is fifteen new rugby players eager to learn the game and represent their local club so it has definitely been a success.
“This really is a win-win for Bonymaen RFC, the local community, and also for rugby in the region. The club have recruited some of their youth players to run the sides, so it is also providing them with an opportunity to take their first steps on the coach development pathway, ensuring development from within at the club, something we strongly believe in at the Ospreys.
“We are delighted to be able to assist one of our local clubs in this way. The more people we are able to encourage to play the game, the stronger that rugby will be as a whole in Ospreylia.”
Parents of any players interested in joining the new sides should contact Steve O’Connor for more information on 07789 834897.