The Parkland Pirates youth rugby program is about developing young talent as the sport continues to take off in the region.
Practices have begun for the program with players as young as four to those aged 13. The numbers for the tackle group, including U12 Intro to Tackle and U14, are solid.
"The tackle numbers are good, we're happy with where they are," said Codi Harrigan. "It's the flag group where I want to see the numbers grow. Usually, we're in that range of 40 kids and we have around 15 right now."
Practices run from 6-7 on Tuesdays and Thursdays and while they have already begun, new players are welcome to join at any point. All you have to do is head down to KIN Field during practices and if your child enjoys the game, you can get all registered.
The fall season includes four jamborees.
Jamboree Season:
September 15 @ Souris
September 22 @ Brandon
September 29 @ Dauphin
October 06 @ Minnedosa
"It's a great opportunity for kids to try something different, something they aren't used to," said Harrigan. "Many of our players stick with it and fall in love with the game. They progress and move into the high school program and beyond. If we can kids at a younger age, we will be able to give them the skills they need much sooner."
As noted above, rugby in the Parkland is in a great place. At the Manitoba Summer Games this year, the boy's team cruised their way to a title while the local girl's team also impressed. Both high school teams are recent league and provincial champions.
If rugby has at all been on your children's minds as of late, now would be the perfect time to give it a try.
"It only shows the success that we can have as a team and a community," ended Harrigan. "Our teams are travelling a lot now and having success against top-tier teams. Then things progress to the senior level as well."
