Rugby Participation and Engagement
Across the globe, there is a growing recognition of the immense value that rugby can bring to young people’s lives. From grassroots initiatives igniting initial sparks of interest to structured club environments fostering lifelong passion, the rugby community is making concerted efforts to engage the next generation.
One inspiring example comes from the inspiresport organization, which specializes in meticulously crafted international sports tours. Through their youth programs, they provide young athletes exclusive access to renowned professional clubs, where participants can learn from experienced coaches and mentors. This exposure to world-class training facilities and high-level competition allows players to enhance their skills and gain invaluable insights into the world of competitive rugby.
“Our tours offer athletes a chance to train in world-class facilities, immersing themselves in an environment that mirrors that of professional athletes,” explains the inspiresport team. “However, they go beyond just training sessions. Players, coaches and families also get the opportunity to embark on exhilarating stadium tours, where they can explore the rich history and iconic landmarks of renowned sports arenas.”
Similarly, the Glendale Youth Rugby program in the United States emphasizes the importance of cultivating a positive and inclusive team culture. “I believe in creating a positive and inclusive team culture where every player feels valued,” shares coach Rob Quickfall. “Emphasizing teamwork is crucial, as rugby is a collective effort. Lastly, fostering a mindset of dominance helps players develop confidence and strive for excellence in their performance.”
Coaching and Mentorship
Across the globe, dedicated rugby coaches are selflessly dedicating their time and expertise to nurturing the next generation of players. These mentors understand the profound impact they can have, not only on developing technical skills but also on shaping well-rounded individuals.
Youssef Driss, another coach with the Glendale Youth Rugby program, reflects on his own journey into the sport: “Rugby is a big and amazing place to meet new people, to share ideas and have fun. I began this game at school with an incredible teacher. I learned a lot from him about values and culture. This is why I love this game: Enjoy the game on the field and try to make a better world outside the field.”
Over in Barbados, Kevyn Murrell, the Vice President of the Barbados Rugby Football Union (BRFU) and National Director of the Get Into Rugby Barbados (GIR Barbados) Program, has dedicated his life to inspiring young people through the sport. “Rugby shapes lives,” he says. “My thought process was – I really love this sport, I love what this sport has done for me, so I want to make sure the next generation of players have an easier way to get involved in, and develop through, Rugby.”
Through initiatives like the GIR Barbados Program, Murrell and his team are exposing local youth to the joys of rugby, with a particular focus on Tag Rugby. “The aim is to get as many people as possible to know Rugby exists and how they can get involved,” he explains. “We want to generate an understanding in Barbados that Rugby is a safe, fun sport that anyone can try – we are a completely inclusive community.”
Skill Development and Talent Identification
Alongside the emphasis on cultivating a positive team culture and imparting valuable life lessons, youth rugby programs are also dedicated to honing the technical skills of young players. From specialized skills workshops to talent identification pathways, these initiatives are ensuring that budding athletes have access to the resources and guidance they need to reach their full potential.
The inspiresport program, for instance, offers participants the chance to train at elite-level clubs and federations, where they can learn from experienced coaches and mentors. “This exposure to professional training techniques and strategies allows young athletes to enhance their skills and gain valuable insights into the world of competitive sports,” the inspiresport team explains.
Similarly, the Rugby Americas North region has seen the emergence of dynamic youth development programs, such as the one led by Kevyn Murrell in Barbados. Murrell’s efforts have resulted in the steady growth of rugby on the island, with particular success in retaining young male players. “Weʼve gone from having to play with mixed teams to now having separate male and female teams,” he proudly shares. “Weʼve also had great success with the inclusion of Rugby in the youth Summer camps on the island.”
These initiatives not only foster skill development but also provide crucial pathways for talented young players to transition into higher levels of the game. As Murrell explains, “I essentially really want to grow the sport – not just players, but administration, refereeing, coaching, and all aspects of Rugby. My role as VP is focused on the youth arm of the BRFU which complements my work with GIR Barbados and is where my passion lies. I want to help attract and retain young players, and to build more local clubs by increasing the awareness and accessibility of Rugby in Barbados.”
Rugby Competitions and Tournaments
While skill development and mentorship are crucial components of youth rugby programs, the opportunity to showcase their talents on the field is equally important. Youth rugby competitions and tournaments provide a platform for young athletes to test their skills, experience the thrill of competition, and forge lasting bonds with their teammates.
Inspiresport’s programs, for instance, include fixtures against competitively matched opposition, allowing participants to engage in friendly yet spirited matches. “As well as engaging in the sport themselves, tour participants will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a well-rounded experience,” the organization explains. “We go beyond just providing sporting activities by offering tickets to professional live games, allowing enthusiasts to witness their favourite teams in action.”
Across the globe, regional and national youth rugby tournaments are becoming increasingly popular. In Barbados, Kevyn Murrell and the GIR Barbados program have witnessed significant growth in their annual secondary schools tournament, with the addition of separate male and female teams. “Weʼve also had great success with the inclusion of Rugby in the youth Summer camps on the island. Iʼm proud to announce that we will soon be running our second exclusive childrenʼs Rugby Summer camp, which is very encouraging,” Murrell shares.
These competitive environments not only provide valuable playing time but also foster a sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participants. As the rugby community continues to prioritize youth development, the impact of these tournaments is being felt across the globe, inspiring the next generation of rugby enthusiasts.
Community Engagement and Outreach
Successful youth rugby programs understand that their impact extends far beyond the playing field. By engaging with local communities and fostering inclusive environments, these initiatives are helping to break down barriers and make the sport more accessible to all.
The World Rugby and Mastercard Youth Unstoppables campaign is a prime example of this. The program celebrates the personality, power, and impact of girls across the game, showcasing how rugby can empower young individuals to challenge gender stereotypes and question social norms.
“Reflecting this mission, the Youth Unstoppables are raising the visibility of inspirational girls in rugby through rich storytelling that extends beyond the field of play,” explains World Rugby Chief of Women’s Rugby, Sally Horrox. “Working in collaboration with the national unions where the Youth Unstoppables originate from and the six regional associations, the series aims to inspire more girls to play and watch the sport by showcasing girls’ rugby as the ultimate and most diverse team sport, on and off the pitch.”
Programs like the GIR Barbados initiative led by Kevyn Murrell are also making strides in engaging with underserved communities and fostering inclusive rugby environments. “The aim is to get as many people as possible to know Rugby exists and how they can get involved,” Murrell explains. “We want to generate an understanding in Barbados that Rugby is a safe, fun sport that anyone can try – we are a completely inclusive community.”
By prioritizing community outreach and ensuring that rugby is accessible to all, these youth development programs are not only growing the sport but also positively impacting the lives of young people worldwide.
Scholarships, Pathways, and Sustainability
As youth rugby programs continue to flourish, there is a growing focus on ensuring that talented young athletes have clear pathways to pursue their dreams, both on and off the field. Scholarships, educational opportunities, and sustainable program structures are all crucial elements in nurturing the next generation of rugby leaders.
The inspiresport program, for instance, offers unique insights into the youth development approach of the world’s most famous rugby clubs. “This program offers unique insight into the youth development approach of the world’s most famous soccer clubs,” the organization states. “Highly qualified and experienced professional coaches will provide you with a specialized rugby curriculum throughout the duration of your trip.”
Beyond the field of play, many youth rugby programs are also exploring ways to support young athletes academically and facilitate their transition into higher education or professional careers. As Kevyn Murrell of the BRFU and GIR Barbados program explains, “I essentially really want to grow the sport – not just players, but administration, refereeing, coaching, and all aspects of Rugby. My role as VP is focused on the youth arm of the BRFU which complements my work with GIR Barbados and is where my passion lies. I want to help attract and retain young players, and to build more local clubs by increasing the awareness and accessibility of Rugby in Barbados.”
By providing these holistic support systems, youth rugby programs are not only cultivating skilled athletes but also nurturing well-rounded individuals who can become future leaders, coaches, and advocates for the sport. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of these initiatives is crucial, as they continue to inspire and empower the next generation of rugby enthusiasts.
Conclusion
As the global rugby community continues to invest in the development of young players, the future of the sport has never been brighter. From grassroots initiatives igniting initial sparks of interest to structured club environments fostering lifelong passion, these programs are transforming the lives of countless young people worldwide.
Whether it’s the inspirational coaching of Rob Quickfall and Youssef Driss in Glendale, the tireless efforts of Kevyn Murrell in Barbados, or the groundbreaking Youth Unstoppables campaign spearheaded by World Rugby and Mastercard, the common thread is a deep-rooted commitment to nurturing the next generation of rugby enthusiasts.
By prioritizing skill development, fostering inclusive environments, and providing clear pathways for young athletes, these youth rugby programs are not only growing the sport but also shaping the character and values of the individuals who will carry the rugby legacy forward. As we look to the future, the possibilities for the sport are truly boundless, thanks to the dedicated individuals and organizations who are inspiring the next generation of rugby champions.