Three mornings of wonderful enthusiasm, passion, energy and sheer fun were organized recently for the children taking part in the Primary Schools MALTAG Tag Rugby (non-contact) competition organised by the PE Teachers, under the leadership of Robert Portelli. They were guided throughout by national rugby coach, Damian Neill and MRFU Development Officer Don Hewer, in accordance with the MRFU “Rugby Pathway”.

Set free from the confines of their school yards and playgrounds to run free on grass, the children rise to the occasion at every chance. They run with speed and balance, and show improving skills as each day’s competition progresses, learning their teamwork and sporting skills form each other and their dedicated PE Teacher coaches.

There are one or two budding stars even at this level, but they seem to learn about taking the rugby ball to hand very quickly and there is such joy in scoring a try. The look on their faces and the determination as they run is inspiring, and at this age the girls hold their own with the boys, and sometimes surpass them when it comes to understanding team work and support.

On the first day, San Giljan were first, Hamrun SS second and Marsascala third.

The second day saw Mtarfa finishing first, Ghaxaq second, and Safi third.

On the final day, San Gwann, Zabbar and Zurieq all tied for first place.

Congratulations are due to all the PE Teachers who made this superb event possible and also to the many helpers such as Elved Williams, the retired BBC Producer who was present early each morning and who coordinated all the statistics. Joe Cassar, the CEO of KMS (Maltese Council for Sport) also enjoyed and supported the first two mornings with his presence.

There has been more training and coaching for four teams of varying age group juniors under the guidance of the MRFU, during which a pleasing factor was that Max Galea and Andrew “Tony” Camilleri, who are only just moving into senior rugby themselves, dedicated so much time to coaching the 14 and 15 year olds, showing a fine and responsible attitude.

They are already showing a great example by putting what they know back into the game they love and this is laying down firm foundations for the future of rugby.

Then followed a mixed team training game for the Malta Ladies.

So much enjoyment and achievement from just one worn and battered, over worked rugby pitch.