7th November 2016
Hundreds of primary school children from across Havering took part in a tag rugby festival last Thursday.
30 primary schools each entered mixed teams of seven boys and girls into the competition which took place at May & Baker RFC. The weather was thankfully fine on the day of the large-scale event, packed with hundreds of schoolchildren and their families.
Barking and Dagenham College provided 38 students from its Rugby Academy to assist at the event through officiating on the day, refereeing and general marshaling.
Dean Cutting, Rugby Academy Coach organised the volunteering and commented: “The Rugby Academy boys were impressive and showed a maturity beyond their years. To be in the middle and control the two teams, with such a mixture of playing abilities on show, is no easy job, but the boys all did a fantastic job.
“This offered them a valuable insight into the sports industry working environment and exposure to the employability skills that they will need to possess. They really were a great advert for our college and in particular the Rugby Academy.”
The students obviously impressed the organisers of the day, as they have been asked to assist on some other up-coming events in the New Year.
One of the helpers on the day, Rugby Academy Captain, 18 year old George Cook from Epping said: “Refereeing the final was a little daunting at first, but once the game started it was great fun and credit must go to children from the two schools; in particular I was most impressed by the way that they didn’t give up until the final whistle.
“I know all of the boys really enjoyed the day and can’t wait for the next opportunity to do it again.”
St Joseph’s Primary in Upminster won the competition and will now be going through to the finals of the London Youth Games.
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