Blacksburg Rugby

Although a grim weather forecast threatened the inaugural Blacksburg Rugby Youth Skills Clinic, attendees were greeted by sunny weather and plenty of fun when the big day arrived.

The clinic, arranged by Blacksburg head coach Perry Pence in partnership with Rugby Virginia and USA Rugby's "Rookie Rugby" program, was held at Blacksburg's match ground at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, 6 November. Particpants included seven boys and girls ranging from 3-11 years of age, as well as a few interested parents.

Using youth-sized footballs provided by Rugby Virginia, clinic participants learned basic rugby skills and played a few flag rugby variation games based on the non-contact "Rookie Rugby" curriculum. Participation in the clinic was free of charge for all interested area youth and parents.

Future Blacksburg Rugby youth events will be held in 2011, though dates have yet to be scheduled. To receive more information and updates about Blacksburg Rugby youth events, send an email message to youth@blacksburgrugby.com. All Blacksburg Rugby youth events are conducted by instructors who have completed a "Rookie Rugby" certification course, and no tackling or rouh play is allowed at Blacksburg Rugby youth events.

About Rugby Virginia: Founded in 2007, Rugby Virginia is the USA Rugby recognized State-Based Rugby Organization (SBRO) for High School and Youth rugby in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The organization’s mission is dedicated to the growth of boys and girls high school and youth rugby in Virginia, while promoting an atmosphere consistent with the values of the game. The organization oversees more than 50 high school and youth rugby sides in Virginia and participates in the annual Coventry Commonwealth State Games. For more information on Rugby Virginia, call 703-282-0449, email rugbyvirginia@gmail.com, or visit the www.rugbyvirginia.com/ site and the Rugby Virginia Facebook group page.