Waukee Family YMCA Rugby to Kick-Off next week

On June 11th and 16th, the Waukee Y held free trial days for anyone interested in trying out the newest YMCA Youth Sport, Non-Contact Rugby.  We had a great turnout of interested parents and kids both days!  We talked about the benefits of Youth Rugby in serving as an excellent means of keeping kids active and around a positive, social/team atmosphere during the summer.  We spoke about the simplicity of the game and how it requires little to no equipment on the part of the participant, much different than other sports such as Baseball or Tackle Football for example.  All you need is a Rugby ball and a field, and the Y supplies both of those!  Then finally, we reiterated that our Youth program is a Non-Contact Sport and is no more physical than Basketball or Flag Football.  For photos from the trial days, click here. 

With the current number of registrants, we plan to kick-off the league in clinic format next week.  The more the better, so if you are interested, there is still time to register this week!  You can choose between either a Monday evening(6-7pm) or a Saturday morning(9-10am) time slot, whichever is more convenient and/or works with your schedule the best. 

These clinics and scrimmages will be instructed by Iowa High School Rugby Association Professionals, Rugby players, YMCA Staff and parent volunteers.  One IAHSRA Professional and Rugby enthusiast that will be very involved is Chris Draper.  Chris is from Iowa but has played across seas professionally for several years.  He has been instrumental in helping form High School teams and is very excited to see leagues forming in the younger age groups as well here at the Y.  He can't wait!

For more information, check out the that was featured on Patch back in May, or contact Joel Goetsch, Program Director at 868-0510 and joel.goetsch@dmymca.org.