Community-building at the heart of new grassroots RugbyRoos initiative

RugbyRoos, a new initiative aimed at strengthening new Western Australian junior rugby union development initiative RugbyRoos has been announced by RugbyWA.

As part of a long-term vision to make rugby a major community-builder in Western Australia, Andrew Forrest said all future elite rugby union players contracted to play in the state would need to commit to devoting 350 hours of their personal time to community programs like RugbyRoos each year.

Introducing the initiative, Forrest stated “West Australians have well and truly demonstrated their passion for rugby - we want to put the community first and bring them with us as we grow.

“The loyal, spirited fans in this state are the lifeblood of the sport. For rugby to continue to thrive in Western Australia, a grassroots-up approach to the game is needed, starting with our youngest stars – our kids.

“As evidence of our grassroots focus, any future elite player in Western Australia will be contracted to do 350 hours in the community every year, including through RugbyRoos.

“RugbyRoos will be rolled out across Australia, beginning here in WA, to develop the future leaders of our great game.”

The RugbyRoos program will foster future rugby talent by providing a fun environment for boys and girls aged four to 12 years to learn core skills they will use for life – from kicking, throwing and catching to balance, team work and following instructions.

The initiative has a firm focus on inclusivity and will offer courses that tailor to different age groups and skill levels.

The program will be rolled out with the help of RugbyWA development officers to assist in linking RugbyRoos participants with local rugby clubs.

The RugbyRoos program will complement Rugby Australia’s Get into Rugby course, which is held at schools and is a non-contact rugby format. The RugbyRoos program will be held at clubs and provide kids with a stepping-stone from school rugby to club teams by learning the respect and discipline necessary for safe tackling. School holiday courses will also be available.

The RugbyRoos program starts now. RugbyRoos participants will receive a pack with a ball, jersey, water bottle and backpack on registration.

The announcement was made at Minderoo in the Pilbara region.

For more information go to www.rugbyroos.com

Image: Andrew Forrest (right) with Western Force and young rugbu union players. Courtesy of RugbyWA.

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