Primary school pupils tackled rugby yesterday as the 2016/17 Sure Sports Primary School Programme began at the NSC.

The sport is one of seven that feature in the programme, which introduces pupils to physical activity in a fun environment throughout the year

Nearly 300 pupils from 24 schools learned the rudiments of rugby by taking part in four-a-side games.

Chris Brannigan, Isle of Man Rugby Development Officer, said: ‘Tag rugby provides an ideal introduction to the sport for children as some of the more physical aspects of the adult sport are removed.

‘Encouraging physical activity among the young and increasing the number of children who regularly take part in sport are objectives of Manx Sport and Recreation’s Strategy for Sport 2014-2024.

‘It was great to see so many boys and girls enjoying the sport and hopefully many of them will carry on playing by joining a junior section of one of the Island’s thriving clubs.’

The Sure Sports Primary School Programme is run by Manx Sport and Recreation (MSR) – part of the Department of Education and Children.

The programme continues with events for badminton in November, hockey and golf in February, netball in March, kwik cricket in May and athletics in June.

MSR coaches and coaches from the relevant sports work with schools to prepare pupils for the events.

Sarah Jarvis, Marketing and PR Manager for Sure Isle of Man, said: ‘We are pleased to continue to support the annual Primary School Programme, which introduces new generations to new sports and hopefully fosters a lifelong love of healthy physical exercise.’

For more information on children’s and adults’ rugby, ring Chris on 07624 269325 or email chrisbrannigan@rfu.com 

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