January 2009
Extra-large launch for Scottish Rugby and The Prince’s
Trust
Scottish
Rugby and The Prince’s Trust Scotland have teamed up to deliver an
initiative aimed at boosting self esteem, social skills and
motivation amongst some of Scotland’s hardest to reach young
people.
Ten Scottish schools will take part in the xl Tag Rugby
programme which offers an introduction to rugby through multiple
tag rugby sessions, access to players, education materials, as well
as coaching from Scottish Rugby staff on nutrition and healthy
lifestyles.
A number of professional players have also been lined up as
guest coaches and will visit a number of the participating
schools.
Glasgow Warriors’ own extra-large players, Andrew Henderson and
James Eddie, joined participating pupils from St Mungo’s Academy,
Glasgow, to launch the programme at Firhill Stadium.
As part of the programme, pupils will also experience the thrill
of the international game first hand at the Scotland v Italy RBS 6
Nations game at Murrayfield on Saturday 28 February, before
competing in a tag rugby tournament - which will see pupils from
all participating schools playing against each other - at a
celebration day at the home of Scottish Rugby the following
week.
Geraldine Gammell, Director of The Prince’s Trust Scotland said,
“This is an excellent opportunity for young people to get involved
in learning a new sport and discovering new skills. Participants
will not only receive training from some of rugby’s leading
sportsmen, it’s also a chance to build their self confidence, self
esteem and truly experience working as a team.”
Glasgow Warrior and Scotland International Andrew Henderson,
added: “It’s great that Scottish Rugby and The Prince’s Trust can
work together to produce such a tremendous initiative and hopefully
they can continue to encourage young people to be fit and
active.
“You can learn a lot of personal, social and team skills through
sport as well as developing enthusiasm and motivation in all
aspects of life.
“It would be brilliant if some stars of the future come off the
back of this programme.”