The GPS Inclusive Rugby Program
by Abbey Hurney
Two years ago GPS Rugby Club established the Inclusive Rugby Program with the goal to give all players the opportunity to participate in the game and become integral members of the GPS community.
Sarah Meka, one of the organisers of the program, further explains;
“To provide a safe inclusive environment for children with different abilities to participate in rugby. Players begin their journey teamed with a buddy playing a modified form of the game on a small field. Once they develop passing, running and social skills they progress to the 7’s format where buddy support is reduced and play is extended to a larger field.”
This year the program has been sponsored by Savills Australia and with their generosity they have covered the cost of coaches, uniforms and offered the opportunity for players to be involved free of charge.
Players are able to learn social skills, develop motor coordination and work together as a team. Paired alongside their buddies to assist throughout their journey’s. Sarah commented,
“Over the years it has been interesting to watch the impact on our buddy’s – the young men and women who give up their own time to play and train alongside our players.”
“Many of them have gone on to leadership positions during their senior year at school and I love that many keep coming back season after season because of the close relationships that they have developed.”
Jack Carr and his buddy Sam Kelly-Knowles in action.
The season runs for 8 weeks during term two of the school year, training on Friday nights 6.00pm–7.00pm and games at 7.30pm. With the final game of each season coinciding with a premier side home game.
“For many of our players running on with the 1st grade players is the highlight of the season.”
If you would like to become involved, the program is currently taking expressions of interest for the 2020 season or for further information about playing or becoming a buddy contact Sarah at mekasarah3@gmail.com.
Royal Australian Corps of Signals players recently supported our Inclusive Rugby Program.