Primary school pupils tackled rugby as the 2017/18 Sure Sports Primary School Programme began.

The sport is one of six in the programme, which introduces pupils to physical activity in a fun environment throughout the school year.

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

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 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.

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

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

Sarah Jarvis, Marketing and PR Manager for Sure Isle of Man, said: ‘We are proud to continue our support of the Primary School Sports Programme, which gives hundreds of Isle of Man pupils the chance to take part in a range of sports. 

‘Tag rugby is one of my favourite sports to watch, as it’s fast and fun and the children really enjoy it.’

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