Mini-rugby camp proves a big hit

The camp was a huge success with 40 youngsters from the city taking the opportunity to hone their rugby skills before the upcoming 2010 season

Bevan Lynch who is also a physical education teacher was joined by fellow New Zealand countryman and physical education teacher, Haisley Robson. The other coaches were City of Derry Under 15 coach Nathan Deeney and 1st XV and Ulster Junior halfback Andrew Semple.

The camp was attended by 6-13 year olds and a varied and action packed week was delivered for these aspiring players.

Lynch highlighted: "The camp resulted because of parental requests for a camp which focused on rugby skills and in particularly contact skills.

"Haisley and I sat down and designed a programme tailored to developmental needs of children and of course the core skills needed to enjoy rugby safely.

"With the excellent indoor and outdoor facilities at Lisneal College we also had the opportunity to expose children to other sports that skills can be transferred back to rugby."

He added: "Each child not only looked like they thoroughly enjoyed the week's activities but they also were sent home with some homework. Each child was appraised during the week in both fitness, functional movement and rugby skills.

"The report was something for parents and children to work on over the long break ahead. We found the tests really interesting and it will certainly help us identify talented players at a younger age in the club. In fact one of our most talented lads doesn't even play rugby. However I will be talking to his mother about that after the camp."

Future Camps are already been planned for mid August for both 6-13s and the 14-19 year olds and Lynch explained: "As long there is a demand we will provide camps.

"Obviously this camp has been great fun for everyone involved and these young lads will be our salesmen. I would like to thank the boys who were a tremendous bunch and the parents for investing in an initiative that will see close to a 2,000 go back into the youth structure of the club."

City of Derry Rugby Club is planning more Summer Camps later in the summer following demand from parents and children. It is hoped to run the camps again for 6 to 19 year olds from the 12th to the 16th of August and from the 19th to the 23rd of August 2010. There will be confirmation shortly on the club website and in the local press.