Fylde's Disability Rugby Program

Pear Tree School

Following a successful coaching program in Pear Tree School last year, Fylde RFC looked to build on the achievement by developing the link further and entering a team in the North Lancs and then the North West ‘Kukri, Wooden Spoon’ Competition in May.

The club gratefully received Sportsmatch funding, match funded by sponsor Bryant Homes. This money, along with a grant from the Rugby Football Union, was used to develop and extend the disability rugby program.

Throughout the program approximately 25 young people between the ages of 14–19 had the opportunity to take part in and play tag rugby. The school received 15 coaching sessions including a number of sessions at the Kirkham Carr Hill High school.

Within the North Lancashire competition, the team very quickly got to grips with the game and ended up winning two, drawing one and losing one game. This was a great opportunity to get the players experience in preparation for the North West competition. At the North West competition the team drew one and won three of their group matches putting them in to the top three play offs. Pear Tree ended up in 3rd place over all narrowly losing two games.

This was a great opportunity for these young people and it was a fantastically organized day by Stuart Urquhart and his team from the RFU. Pear Tree are looking forward to resuming training next year and strive to improve on the performances of this year as the players learn new skills.

Alan Holmes from Fylde RFC said. "I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience of working with this great bunch of individuals. The challenges we have set and overcome together have been a priceless and enjoyable learning experience for both sides." He added "Following the success of the link with Pear Tree, I am looking forward the challenge of setting up a disability rugby team at Fylde RFC over the summer." Sessions for the disability team will run on a monthly basis with the first sessions on 2nd August and 6th September, 1.00pm - 2.00pm, at Fylde RFC.

For more details please call Alan 01253 734733