Port Rugby Camp a massive success

Record numbers of children enjoyed five days of exceptionally well organised activities at Portarlington Rugby Club recently.

A total of 149 boys and girls, divided into six age groups, were treated to a wide range of games each day that left both children and parents raving about a wonderful week of fun and friendship.

Under the stewardship of club youths coordinator Paidí Mahon, a total of 19 volunteer coaches and 21 youth players ran the classes and games for the excited five to 14 year olds. The activities included tip rugby, obstacle courses, rugby rounders, passing games, American football, races, volleyball and kicking games.

On the last day of camp the kids were treated to a BBQ and bouncy castles before being presented with a rugby ball, kicking tee and an individual action photo. The photos were sponsored by mini’s sponsor Adrian Dunne Pharmacy.

Camp Coordinator Paidí Mahon was delighted with the numbers of kids and the commitment shown by the club volunteers but one aspect of the week stood out for him. “One of our main objectives in the club is to offer the opportunity of team sport to girls in the community and so to encourage as many girls as possible to attend our summer camp we offered a half price rate of €25 for girls. We are thrilled that 35 girls turned up and we hope to see as many of them as possible joining us for the new season”.

Club President Padraig Maree, who himself volunteered at the camp, paid tribute to the coaches and youths who ran the event. “Inclusion is the philosophy of mini rugby with every child who participates being given an opportunity to play in every game that their team plays and the coaches brought that ethos into the summer camp ensuring that each and every child went home with a smile on their face and a pep in their step. It was fantastic to see so many youth players volunteering and giving something back to the club.”

Portarlington RFC will hold a registration day for the new season on Saturday, August 31 from 10am to 12am at the club’s Lee Road grounds. Boys and girls of all ages are welcome to come along and register ahead of what promises to be another fantastic season. For further information visit the clubs minis and youths Facebook pages - Port RFC Mini Rugby / Portarlington Youths Rugby.