Starting them young

IN MOST major rugby nations children as young as three start to play the game, so why not here? That was the question posed by New Zealander Steve Hale, a seasoned island player, and Richard Curtis, who with the support of the Guernsey Rugby Club have decided to put that right.

They will offer children the chance to play and their respective sons have already signed up.

The games will be played using rules that are easy to understand and designed to keep a game flowing and interesting for the children.

The games and training will not be full contact and will be closely supervised at all times with the emphasis on fun and the light refreshments which will be supplied at the end of a session.

Their first game is scheduled for 2 October when they get to show off what they have learned in front of the crowd gathered for the Guernsey Rugby Club's first London South- West Four home game at Foote's Lane.

It is hoped that each child that plays will be presented with a ball and a shirt that he or she can keep.

All those who think their three to five-year-old boys or girls might like to have a go should come down to the Guernsey Rugby Club at 2pm today.

Parents who wish their child to play will be encouraged to help, especially at the start. The sessions will be an hour in duration.

There will be a maximum number of 20 children allowed and places will be filled on a first come, first served basis.

There will be a nominal fee to register a child and cover costs.

If anyone would like more information or would like to register a child, please contact either Hale on 07781 127727 or Curtis (07781 120421) and they will be only too glad to answer any questions.