HUNDREDS of youngsters made the most of their six week summer holiday to test their rugby skills in Coventry city centre.
Rugby clubs from across the region descended on Broadgate during Coventry Sports Week to lay on a series of touch and tag rugby games.
Co-ordinated by Engage, the rugby day aimed to promote the sort by teaching rugby’s core values of teamwork, respect, integrity, and discipline.
Coventry Bears, Coventry Rugby Club, Wasps and the Rugby Football Union (RFU) also held mini coaching sessions.
Tom Clift, programme manager at Engage, said he was pleased with the turnout of youngsters.
He added: “It’s another step in the right direction for Coventry’s City of Rugby project.
“It’s important for us to make the most of the interest that is generated among children on the day.
“It was also really encouraging to see them signing up to become junior members of the various clubs that supported the event.”
Coun Kamran Caan, cabinet member for public health and sport, said: “It’s great to hear that so many young people have been introduced to rugby through this project.
“I hope some of those who gave it a try will take up the sport as a hobby or to join their local club, helping them to stay active and healthy.”
The sports week was supported by Coventry Business Improvement District (BID).
Manager Trish Willetts said the week proved popular and it brought young people out into the city centre.
She said: “I am thrilled the rugby sessions were a hit with everyone who came along.
“I would like to say a big thank you to all of the organisations who took part in the week and helped to make it the massive success that it was.”
