Ballymena mini rugby players enjoy Ulster adventure

Twelve players from Ballymena’s U12 Mini Rugby Squad were invited to take on the challenge of Coleraine U12 at half time of the recent Ulster v Zebre Guinness Pro 12 season opener.
By The Newsroom
Published 20th Sep 2014, 08:00 BST
Members of Ballymena Rugby Club's under-12 squad who played Coleraine at half-time during Friday night's Ulster v Zebre match.Members of Ballymena Rugby Club's under-12 squad who played Coleraine at half-time during Friday night's Ulster v Zebre match.
Members of Ballymena Rugby Club's under-12 squad who played Coleraine at half-time during Friday night's Ulster v Zebre match.

The under-12 format is a new initiative this season, combining P7 and first form.

Immediately on the half time whistle, the two squads were released on the hallowed turf, sprinting from the Family Stand to the Memorial Stand; both teams prepared for the kick off, taken before the coaches had even reached the pitchside!

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Seven minutes of mini rugby ensued, and despite the expected handling errors from both sides at this early stage of the season, both sides acquitted themselves well in defence and attack, rucks were brutal and mauling was ferocious; ball distribution was the key to unlocking a winning score.

Roger Alexander, BRFC Mini Convener, says Ballymena have embraced this new age category and the Coaching teams early work is already paying dividends.

The U12s play every Saturday morning at Eaton Park or away fixture as part of the Mini Section.

This season the squad has enjoyed an increaing intake with around 250 boys from P1 to first form.

Related topics:UlsterBallymena