YEAR 3 and 4 pupils from around the Bega Valley were given an introduction to rugby league at a special gala day on Wednesday.
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Almost 50 quick games of tag were played across three mini fields at George Griffin Oval, while those with permission tried their hand at tackle rugby league on the Bega Athletics Field.
Bega NRL development officer Damian Kennedy said the event had earlier been postponed and was delighted to see the weather.
“The day is for the Year 3 and 4 kids, but had been washed out previously,” Kennedy said.
“But the sun is shining and we’ve got tackle and tag games going on.”
Tag games have been running in the junior development program for almost a decade now and have been a stepping stone to the junior and women’s league-tag competitions.
“These are just scaled down versions of the league-tag, that format was actually developed from this,” Kennedy said.
Those braving the tackle game were treated to having former NRL player Matt Cross as their referee on the day.
A dozen games of tackle culminated in an “invitational” game where an excellent Bega line-up met some of the standout players from all the attending schools.
Excellent leg work and developing tackling skills from both squads saw the game finish in a draw, with both teams walking away as winners.
Kennedy said the day was more about letting the kids socialise.
“Once they get to Year 5 and 6 we keep score, but a large part of today is just the social thing and letting the kids get out there with players from other schools.”
Young Group 16 referees also enhanced their skills.
“They’re all fully qualified refs, but it is a great opportunity for training,” Kennedy said.
“They get familiar with how to talk to the kids, their positioning on the field and even whistle blowing.”