Under 12s
The U12s are in their last season of Midi-Rugby, having had two seasons each of Tag Rugby and Mini-Rugby, and one season of Midi-Rugby at U11s. The progression from last season is an additional player (Number Eight) bringing the team size up to 13.
The emphasis this season is primarily on getting the squad ready for next season when they will be playing 15 a-side on full pitches without any of the law-restrictions of their playing experience to date. Many of the players are surely looking forward to being able to hand-off, grubber kick and harass opposition scrum-halves!
There are many aspects to being prepared for this progression, the most obvious being the need for a large enough squad of experienced players for match days. Fortunately there were a number of new joiners this season, many of whom have seamlessly become part of the team. These have included players new to rugby, so there are the twin coaching aims of bringing these players up to speed in terms of skills and knowledge of the game and developing the more established players. For the latter group, developing new attacking options that exploit space and being more organised in defence are examples of development areas for the season. In addition, each player is being supported in their individual development goals, as identified by them with the help of the coaches.
All this goes on with the support of a great parent group and in a spirit of fun and enjoyment, the highlight of which is usually the annual tour. This year's tour will be the sixth in the short career of some of the more seasoned players, and if the past is anything to go by, all of them will again be great ambassadors for the club both on and off the field.
