Queensland Rugby’s junior development program Rookies2Reds has surged passed the 2,500 participant milestone with Queensland kids across the state signing up for the chance to emulate their Reds heroes while learning new Rugby skills.
Since reaching the 1,000 member mark in May, Rookies2Reds registrations have increased at a rapid rate with over 1,500 kids signing up in just two months to participate at one of the program’s 107 Rookies2Reds zones across Queensland.
The overwhelming response from juniors means Rookies2Reds registrations are well on their way to achieving the targeted 5,000 participants in the program’s first year of operation.
Rookies2Reds is designed to give boys and girls aged between 5 and 10 an interactive, fun and healthy introduction to what Rugby Union in Queensland has to offer as part of a five-week after-school program.
It is expected that 220 Rookies2Reds zones will be in operation by the end of the year.
Each participant receives training from Queensland’s finest coaches in a safe and fun environment designed to teach kids the basic skills of Rugby while introducing them, and their families, to the fun of the game.
Participants also receive a specialised Rookies2Reds participant pack, which includes a hat, water bottle, height-chart, ball and other special Rookies2Reds gear.
Rookies2Reds ambassador Will Genia said he is impressed the program is proving popular among Queensland kids.
“It’s great to see Rookies2Reds is having such a positive response, kids right across the state are getting to experience what the program has to offer and are really enjoying it,” Genia said.
“Rookies2Reds is a great pathway for kids to start out in Rugby; it’s designed to be a lot fun while also developing and improving the Rugby skills of the next generation of aspiring Reds.
“It’s also great to see just how quickly so many Queensland families are embracing the Rookies2Reds program.
“It’s a rewarding experience for junior players and I encourage every parent to let their kids give it a go. There are still plenty of chances left in 2012.”
Operating in the same space as AFL’s Auskick program, In2Cricket and Netball’s Net Set Go, Rookies2Reds aims at connecting primary school students and their families to their local Rugby clubs and Rookies2Reds zones in the hope of increasing junior rugby involvement and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
The success of Rookies2Reds will assist in increasing junior participation levels and support the growth of Rugby within the competitive Queensland sporting marketplace.
To register for the program, visit the Rookies2Reds website at www.Rookies2Reds.com.au and use the centre locator to find the nearest Rookies2Reds zone.
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If you would like further information, please don’t hesitate to email or call Rookies2Reds Program Manager Ben Thurlow on Ben.Thurlow@qru.com.au or 0404 026 638.
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