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.

GPS Foundation is Tax Deductable

Looking for tax deductions and like to contribute to facilities development at GPS?

Consider a donation to the GPS Foundation - www.gpsrugby.com.au/club/foundation/about/

Marlugu takes on International Stage

Marlugu Dixon, captain of the GPS Premier Women’s side and a long-time member of the GPS community will represent PNG at the Hong Kong World Rugby 7’s series this weekend.

Having represented PNG previously at this exact tournament in 2014, Dixon is not unfamiliar with the pressures of performing at an international level. She explains that the positive attitudes and competitiveness within training camps has prepared the side accordingly.

“It’s pretty challenging, I have a training program which I have been trying to juggle with full time work.”

“I’m feeling pretty good, I believe I have done the best for myself to prepare for the tournament and I believe the girls are feeling the same way. Camp has been positive and everyone has really come together.”

Continuing her captaincy for another year, Marlugu has played a crucial role in the GPS community and her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Vira Kite, day one member of our Women’s program praised her contributions.

“Dicko is our captain and her pursuit for higher honours has been inspiring to everyone. She’s a fierce leader on the field that everyone follows and sets the bench mark for training off the field with her commitment and dedication.”

“We are all super proud. I get a bit emotional thinking about how far she has come and can’t think of anyone more deserving.”

Dedication and passion for the game has got Marlugu to where she is today and our club is grateful to have been a part of the journey.

“I can’t imagine playing for any other Brisbane team or club. The girls in the team are like family, they literally have your back on the field and I have made some lifelong friends out it.”

“The club itself is so supportive of our women’s team and generally has great club culture. I have gained a lot of experience in playing at GPS. Continuously learning from my coaches, the girls around me and the wider GPS community.”

Vale Daryl Clifton Latter

It is with great sadness that the Club announces the passing in Sydney on the 9th January 2019 after a long illness, of well-known Club identity, Daryl Clifton Latter aka “Coolangatta” Latter came to GPS Old Boys Rugby Club ( Jeeps) via Norths and Eastwood in Sydney in 1964. He was part of a strong Newington College Sydney connection at the time and was to become a commanding presence in the Club from the time of his arrival until transferred to New Guinea with Rothmans in 1969.

Daryl played 104 A Grade Games for the club from 1964 to 1969. He represented Queensland on 5 occasions.

He was a lovable larrikin and will be solely missed by his team mates and club members of the time.

MAY HE REST IN PEACE

New Life Members

At the AGM last Thursday, Peter Garbett and Tony Mee were made Life Members of GPS Rugby Club. Both have had distinguished playing careers with the club and have been heavily involved in obtaining sponsorship. Peter is a Past President and coach both in Seniors and Juniors. Tony is a tireless volunteer who is always ready to help around the club. Congratulations to both of them.