The silver medal won by Canada’s women’s rugby sevens team at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics didn’t just happen.
For many of the team’s players, it was the culmination of a years-long journey that started with their introduction to the sport when they were young.
Coquitlam’s United Rugby Club is providing just such an opportunity with its annual fall Try Rugby event for kids from Kindergarten to Grade 6 to be held Sept. 8, from 10 to 11 a.m. on the grass pitch at Maple Creek Middle School (3700 Hastings St.).
Participants will be led through a series of non-contact activities and drills designed to give them a taste of the fundamental skills and teamwork required to play rugby.
“It’s been an exciting summer for rugby,” said Thomas Ferris, United’s assistant director of its Minis program for young players.
Ferris said the Try Rugby event is perfect for young people who may have viewed some of the Olympic rugby action in Paris and are excited or curious to try it themselves.
“We encourage every kid who enjoyed watching that success to come and try rugby this fall,” he added.
Kids in United’s U6, U8 and U10 programs play flag rugby while those in the U12 program are introduced to tackling.
All matches for all age groups are played in the same location and same time each wee, making it easier for families to juggle multiple sports commitments. The rugby season typically runs from September to December and then February to May.
The Try Rugby event is drop-in, with no pre-registration required, and no prior experience with the sport is required.
Players should wear cleats or running shoes, as well as athletic clothing suitable for outdoor play. They should also bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
For more information, you can contact Mat Kootchin, the director of United’s minis program.
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