THE Australian Rugby Union (ARU) has thrown its support behind Port Macquarie’s inaugural Mid-North Coast Junior Skill Development Camp next week.
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A proposal by local coach Scott Leis to conduct the coaching clinic during the school holidays was enthusiastically approved by the national affiliate.
The camp will take place at Stuart Park on Monday and Tuesday from 9am to 4pm.
And, to ensure the event is a success, Junior Waratah Academy mentors Joe Barakat and Scott Bowen have been secured, giving all players access to the best coaches in New South Wales.
In addition to Barakat and Bowen, senior ARU advisors, including Michael Magriplis, John Searle, Sean Barrett and referee co-ordinator Jamie McGregor, will also be in attendance.
“The camp has now opened up to U11/12s, along with U13/14s and U15/16s,” Leis said.
“Feedback from the rugby community was the key reason for the change and, since the numbers have doubled, it indicates there is strong interest at the younger age level.
“This is a fantastic platform, which we can leverage longer term to ensure the game prospers locally.
“I’m hoping the camp will become an annual event, to be held at the same time each year.
“The vision is to be on par with the development camp, which has successfully taken place in Armidale for the past decade.
“So, we need the full support of the local rugby fraternity to ensure its longevity.”
Leis admitted the camp’s dates had been very deliberate in their timing, to coincide with the start of the Friday night schools competition one week later.
“It’s a great opportunity for all junior rugby players to kick the season off with access to, arguably, some of Australia’s best coaches,” he said.
“It will also give them exposure to NSW Waratah High Performance Unit staff (junior and senior).
“So, the camp may be the stepping stone to a longer term future in the game.
“I urge anyone, who is interested, to register immediately to make certain they are guaranteed a spot, in particular the younger age groups now that it has opened up to them.”
The cost is $80.
To register online, visit http://www.coursepay.com.au/nswrugby/events.php?etid=3377
