Diggers invites the community to have a look-see what it is about at open day

Diggers Junior Rugby Club’s open day was an opportunity for potential new players to get a feel for the club and consider joining before the season starts.

Furthermore, Lions flyhalf Jordan Hendrikse was on hand to coach the youngsters on their kicking, while mascot Mufasa had some fun playing with the younger players.

They both signed autographs afterwards.

The event welcomed about 150 players between U6 to U18 level and the field was full of all sorts of drills and games.

Hendrikse hosted a kicking competition, with the winner earning one of the professional’s own kicking tees.

“The atmosphere was great and the players learned so much,” said the club’s vice-chairperson Keith Baillie.

“A lot of parents stayed to watch and got to meet each other, so the stands were pretty full. There were 30 to 40 new players, which was more than we expected to be honest. And of course, the players from last season were there too.”

This was not long after their trials, where the club saw more than 200 youngsters participate.

Also read: Diggers Junior Rugby Club hosts trials, sees over 200 children attend

Baillie said players were split into age groups instead of skill level, and coaches were also designated age groups they do not normally coach.

This promoted sharing of experience.

“It was a very hot day, like 30 degrees. So it was good to see people enjoying cool drinks in the clubhouse while they cooled down. We also launched our merchandise, selling caps and T-shirts for the season. That went well.”

Pre-season training will be held until the end of June, with practices being more frequent closer to the time, after which the official season will begin with competitive matches.

Details: Diggers Junior Rugby Club admin@diggersrugby.co.za