Introduction to Youth Rugby minicamp coming to Tecumseh
TECUMSEH — The city of Tecumseh Parks and Recreation Department is partnering with Adrian College men’s rugby coach Benny Mateialona to offer an Introduction to Youth Rugby minicamp in June.
The Introduction to Youth Rugby minicamp is planned for June 19, 21 and 23 at the AJ Smith Rec Center. Topics include learning to pass a rugby ball, catch and ruck. Second through fifth graders will learn the fundamentals from 6:30 to 7:25 p.m. Sixth through eighth graders will be from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. This introduction will focus on fundamentals, understanding and having fun. The cost is $20 per child or $15 per child if they are a Tecumseh resident.
Mateialona has been at the helm of the Adrian College men’s varsity rugby team since the program’s first season in 2021. While the college’s program is still relatively new, Mateialona is no stranger to the sport. He has been the head coach at Detroit Catholic Central High School, Legacy Rugby Academy and the Michigan State University Rugby Club to name a few. During his playing days, Mateialona played at Life University and at the professional level with the New England Free Jacks, a major league rugby team. He participated in the Junior World Cup Qualifier in Trinidad and Tobago as well as a member of the U-19 Junior World Cup squad, a news release from Parks and Recreation reported.
“When he approached city of Tecumseh parks and rec to start a youth program it was a short conversation. ‘Yes.’ That was my quick answer,” parks and recreation director Sarah Gilmore said in the release. “When you have someone with that experience, positive outlook and he has a similar goal of more opportunities for more kids, that’s an easy decision to make.”
While adult rugby can be extremely physical, youth rugby is minimal contact. Players wear belts with flags attached like in flag football. When a flag is pulled, players must pass the ball and continue play. The game has a faster speed of play and continuous movement.
Preregistration is required. To register or for additional information regarding the Introduction to Youth Rugby minicamp, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 517-423-5602 or via email at sgilmore@tecumsehmi.gov.
This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: Introduction to Youth Rugby minicamp coming to Tecumseh
