Inter School games

Plan for Inter-School Rugby Games Between Local Elementary Schools

Objective:
To organize a series of friendly rugby jamborees between local elementary schools that will foster teamwork, physical activity, and sportsmanship among young students.

1. Event Overview

  • Date: Choose a date that works for all schools (consider weekends or after-school hours)
  • Location: A central rugby field or sports facility with the appropriate space for young players.
  • Duration: 1 hour, 3 games of 20 minutes

2. Participant Schools

  • List the participating schools (Start with South Surrey and White Rock)
  • Ensure each school fields a team of players, typically divided by grade levels (grades 3-7).

3. Team Composition

  • Team Size: 7-10 players per team (smaller teams for younger age groups may be more appropriate).
  • Age Groups: Teams may be divided by grade or age
  • Gender Inclusion: Grade 3-5 mixed-gender teams, Grade 6-7 Boys and Girls

4. Game Format

  • Tournament Style: Round-robin format (where each team plays against all other teams)
  • Match Duration: Each match lasts 20 minutes, with a brief halftime.
  • Field Size: Size depends on the age group u8 would play on 1/8 of a field, u12 would need half a field
  • Game Rules: Adapt standard rugby rules to be suitable for elementary school students. Emphasize:
    • Non-contact variations: Touch rugby or flag rugby, especially for younger players, focuses on skills and teamwork rather than contact.
    • Simple scoring: One point per try. Two points if more than 4 passes to score the try
    • Sportsmanship: Emphasize fair play, teamwork, and respect.

5. Roles and Responsibilities

  • Event Organizers (Host School):
    • Coordinate logistics (field, schedules, referees).
    • Arrange for volunteers (parent helpers, student leaders) to assist with crowd control, team organization, and first aid.
  • Coaches/Teachers:
    • Assist with team preparation, ensuring players know the rules and gameplay expectations.
  • Referees/Officials:
    • Engage trained referees or teachers/volunteers familiar with rugby rules to ensure fair play.
  • Volunteers:
    • Help set up the field, manage team check-ins, distribute water, and ensure safety.
  • First Aid:
    • Have a certified first aid responder on-site in case of injuries.

6. Venue and Equipment

  • Field: Ensure the rugby field is safe, with appropriate markings (use cones for smaller areas if needed).
  • Equipment Needed:
    • Rugby balls (ensure they are suitable for young players).
    • Jerseys/colored vests for teams.
    • Flags or cones for touch rugby (if applicable).
    • First aid kits and water stations.

7. Scheduling

  • Match Schedule: Prepare a clear, easily accessible schedule for matches.
  • Breaks: Ensure there are enough breaks between games for hydration and rest.

8. Safety Considerations

  • Supervision: Ensure each team has a responsible adult (coach or teacher) to supervise players.
  • Hydration: Have water stations available to keep players hydrated throughout the tournament.
  • Injury Protocol: Have clear procedures in place for handling injuries, with first aid on-site and access to emergency services if necessary.
  • Weather Conditions: Monitor weather forecasts, and have contingency plans for inclement weather.

9. Promotion and Communication

  • Flyers and Posters: Create event promotional materials for schools to display, highlighting the tournament date and location.
  • Social Media: Use school social media accounts to promote the event and share updates or results.
  • School Newsletters: Inform parents and students of the upcoming tournament via email or print newsletters.
  • Press Release: If applicable, invite local media to cover the event to further boost community engagement.

10. Post-Event Activities

  • Awards and Recognition:
    • Provide certificates or medals for participation.
    • Hold a small awards ceremony to celebrate fair play, best teamwork, and individual achievements.
  • Feedback: After the event, gather feedback from coaches, parents, and students to improve future tournaments.
  • Thank You Notes: Send appreciation letters to all volunteers, coaches, and parents who helped make the event a success.

Conclusion

By organizing this rugby tournament, local elementary schools can build community spirit, encourage physical activity, and teach valuable life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. This event can become an annual tradition that fosters healthy competition and collaboration among young athletes.