Francistown rugby programme yields results

Correspondent | Thursday March 24, 2016 12:26

 

The programme coordinator based in Francistown, Vovo Mwembana said it is crucial for children to have an early understanding of the sport.

“The programme has no age limit although our focus is really on the younger ones. This programme is in three stages; try, play and stay. In the try stage, that is when we introduce them to the game of rugby, teach them how to handle and pass the ball.  The play stage is when they now enter the ground and play the game. Then lastly, those who are keen on the sport can stay and learn more about the sport.

 We have a small group of children who are enrolled into the programme around Francistown, so they compete against each other at least once a month. They also get to travel to other places to compete,” said Mwembana, who also coaches Gladiators and Botswana Accountancy College (BAC) rugby clubs.

“The children will not only learn how to play rugby, but also to respect and work together with others from different backgrounds. Discipline is the backbone because active bodies are equal to active minds,” she added.

Mwembana explained that they have so far managed to teach the children the basics of the game, ball handling and they even understand the rules of the game.

She said they are happy with the support they get from parents. “The great part is to hear parents remarking on this initiative as there is visible positive behavioural change in their children.”

Since inception last year, three centres in Block 2, Mahudiri Primary School in the Gerald Estates and Area W have been established.

Mwembana said the major challenge they face is lack of funds.

“We wish we could find sponsors so that we can achieve more. Some of the children quit because they train and don’t get game time. It is really disappointing for them,” she lamented.