Aylesbury to give mixed ability rugby a try

People of all abilities are being encouraged to join the first mixed ability rugby union team in Buckinghamshire.

Aylesbury Rugby Club, Rugby Football Union and Aylesbury Vale District Council are introducing the new team, bringing players with and without disabilities together to make contact rugby more accessible.

Coaching will be inclusive, safe, fun, energetic and enjoyable with players encouraged to build on their teamwork, support each other and achieve personal excellence.

The inspiration for the new side follows a meeting with the Bradford and Bingley Bumble Bee Barbarians. This team was set up by a determined young man with cerebral palsy and learning disabilities, asserting the right of people with disabilities to take part in contact sport.

With more teams being set up across the UK, there will be increasing opportunities for inclusive sides to compete on a regular basis.

Paul Milham from Aylesbury RFC, said: “Having seen the success of the Bradford and Bingley Bumble Bee Barbarians, Aylesbury RFC are delighted to be given the chance to get involved in mixed ability rugby.

“We believe that rugby is one of the most inclusive sports around and the opportunity to open our facilities up to more communities is one not to be missed.

“The core values of our sport are teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportmanship, apply to participants of all abilitiesand we look forward to welcoming all new players to the club.”

Aylesbury Vale District Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Councillor Howard Mordue, added: “This is an exciting time for sport in Aylesbury Vale, and the introduction of a mixed ability rugby team is a fantastic development. I hope people get involved and make the most of this great opportunity.”

Training sessions start on September 20 and will take place every Saturday from 1pm to 2.30pm at Aylesbury Rugby Club. Previous experience of rugby is not necessary, although participants do need to be 17 years or older.

For more information, or to express an interest in being involved as a coach, volunteer or sponsor, call Natalie Donhou Morley on 01296 585233 or e-mail Tim Holmes at timholmes@rfu.com.

Article source: http://www.express.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/484140/Wales-Jonathan-Davies-backs-Liam-Williams-to-recover-from-mistake

Aylesbury to give mixed ability rugby a try