Over the previous two weekends over 40 mini rugby coaches attended an IRFU Stage 1 (Mini) Coaching Course, hosted at Ben Madigan Preparatory School, Belfast.
This two-day course is specifcally designed for coaches of mini rugby (6yrs-12yrs) where players are being introduced to rugby for the first time and participating in games of reduced numbers (8's, 10's and12-a-side).
The focus is on safety & enjoyment with the coach acting as 'guide' in a player-centred process. Developing players' all-round skills and game understanding with an emphasis on Physical Literacy.
Coach Development Officer, Chris Galway commented, "It was a pleasure towork with so many Stage 1 coaches throughout the course as their contribution to the development of players and the players continued involvement is vital. The level of enthusiasm they already possess, alongwith the added knowledge gained during the course, will definitely benefit the mini sections and players within their respective clubs."
Ulster Rugby would also like to thank teacher Philip Ingram and Ben Madigan Preparatory School for the use of their excellent facilities and assistance throughout the course.
This coaching course has been made possible due to the generous support of the NI Executive and the Department of Culture, Arts & Leisure through the 'Promoting Equality, Tackling Poverty and Social Exclusion through Sport' programme.