Fast-paced and fun, around 150 youths were given a taste of rugby sevens at a well received junior rugby day on Friday.
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Coinciding with the senior tournament on Saturday and Sunday; teams came from Bingara and even Goondiwindi to participate in the free round robin event.
"It was fantastic. A lot of kids spoke to me afterwards, suggested that they loved it and they were interested in maybe trying rugby this season," Highlanders junior rugby president James Roger said.
"The girls teams were amazing. Women’s sevens rugby is apparently one of the fastest growing sports in Australia and you can see why. It was fantastic to see the girls out there."
Around 400 people attended the day, which was designed to generate interest in the sport for all skill levels. For some, the event was an introduction to the game, while others had a chance to stretch their skills.
"It wasn’t a competitive tournament this year. We didn’t necessarily want to focus on the score, we wanted to focus on people participating," Roger said.
The under 10s players were eased into the sport with training and exercises before facing their opponents.
Running from 5.30-9pm, each team took on three games. A barbecue dinner helped raise funds for the local club.
"Everyone got a really good run around," Roger said.
"Together with the senior tournament, it was a massively successful weekend for the rugby club."
He thanked vice president Ben Monie for driving the event, and said the Highlanders are hoping to host regular junior rugby sevens events.
Ranging from under 6s to under 14s, there is healthy interest in junior rugby, however the club is keen to find more under 16s players in the hopes of creating a team.
Pre-season officially begins this week, with regular training each Thursday from 5-6pm at the Rugby Club. Sausage sizzles will be available.
After a three week break for Easter, the first game of the season will kick off on May 12.