Check out what some of Rugby Development Officers have been up to this week.

This week Northland Rugby Development Coach Peter Hugo spent some time with Tomarata Rugby Club. The key focus was an upper body warmup to prepare for scrum and line-out work. It was great to see the the club gearing up for a big season.

Scott Collins (NRU Women's Rugby Manager) caught up with former Black Fern Cheryl Smith (nee Waaka).  She is the head coach of the new Kaikohe Rugby Football & Sports Club Premier Women's team.

Get in touch with Cheryl Smith (nee Waaka) if you're ready to jump on board and take up the challenge.

Primary Schools Development Officer Hayley-Jade was in Kaikohe this week promoting Rippa Rugby to the students of Kaikohe Christian School

The Whangarei Rugby Smart course was held this week at Marist Rugby Club.  Thanks to all of the Coaches and Managers that attended.  It was a good interactive session with some good discussion amongst the coaches & referees.  (Ben Wiki - Whangarei RDC)

Another big turn out in Kerikeri for the 2nd U16 & U18 Girls 7s trial session - well over 30 players again with more new faces.

The focus this week was around catch and pass, starting with small area waves before using the full width & length to test the strength of the players' pass.

Our U18 players showed some real leadership tonight, providing demonstrations of moves on the edge for our younger players.

Sunday will see game scenarios for all the players so mouth guards, boots and water bottles will be key!!

The teams will be announced on Monday.

Simson Park, Moerewa - 1000am on the field.

As stated to the players in attendance....if you don't make it these teams, it's not the end of the road. We have more opportunities to come through the year, and many of them will have more years of eligibility in the U16 age grade.

Northland will be fielding an U16 XVs side in the Northern Region Tournament in July so plenty more rugby

Check out all the action on our Community Rugby Facebook page:

Article added: Friday 15 March 2019