It may be the off-season for rugby but Buccaneers Rugby Football Club is busy preparing to host an All-Ireland Mixed Ability Rugby tournament at Dubarry Park on Saturday, June 10.
The on-pitch event will run from 1 pm until 5 pm with presentations and musical entertainment planned for after.
Admission is FREE and all are invited to come along and enjoy this inaugural event which is being supported by the IRFU, who will be bringing the Six Nations and Triple Crown trophies along on the day.
The mixed ability version of the sport is an inclusive approach to participation that engages everyone; no matter their age, ability or experience level. It is an approach where the barriers to participation are removed and a welcoming environment is created.
The concept is to include people with physical and/or learning disabilities, or those recovering from mental health issues, everybody is welcome. It works by having some experienced players on a team who act as facilitators for those less experienced players by assisting and guiding. Teams can comprise male and female players. The laws of the game are not changed from regular rugby - except that scrums are uncontested.
The benefit of mixed ability are across the board, as it is not just the inexperienced player who benefits from being included in a squad. There is a genuine spirit of camaraderie before and after a game and gives everyone an opportunity to experience inclusion at first hand.
Teams from all four provinces will be participating and it is anticipated that several hundred players will be involved resulting in a buzzing and busy Dubarry Park, if not Athlone town as a whole. With a projected large volume of spectators due to attend this worthwhile venture, there are hopes that the beautiful sunny weather can continue until Saturday.
A high volume of volunteers have promised to assist with the event, but more are always welcome. If you wish to help or simply require further information, contact the event controller, Niall at 087 976 4966.
Buccs Summer Camps
Two Rugby Summer Camps for Boys and Girls aged 7 to 12 years are being held at Buccaneers RFC this summer. Supported by Smith’s Supervalu Monksland, the five day camps will take place from Monday, July 10 to Friday, July 14 and Monday, August 14 until Friday, August 18 from 9:30am until 12:30 pm each day.
No previous rugby playing experience is necessary and kids will learn new skills in a fun environment whilst making friends and keeping fit. Registration is €80 per week with discounts for additional family members. To register, email [email protected]
Golf Classic
The Buccaneers Rugby Football Club Annual Golf Classic will take place at the panoramic Glasson Lakehouse course on Tuesday, July 25. Make it a date in your diary.
