As the winter sun sets on Goudy Field in Langford a ragtag group of teens is learning the basics of rugby from one of the top players Canada has ever produced.
Winston Stanley, former national player and current record holder for most tries, runs the group through basic plays and chipping for a non-contact game. The players look cold, but they also look like theyB次元官网网址檙e having fun.
Rugby continues to grow on the West Shore with the introduction of drop-in games on Fridays at Goudy Field.
Velox Vahallians Rugby Football Club ran an under-17 team out of Westhills Stadium last fall and plan to do the same again this year. In the meantime, players are invited to come out from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Fridays for training and casual games.
The Friday drop-ins are giving new players of all ages, and in particular those aged 13 to 18, a chance to come and learn some basic skills and have some fun.
B次元官网网址淲eB次元官网网址檒l do a few skill drills and then weB次元官网网址檒l play some games, and just try to keep it fun and entertaining,B次元官网网址� said Winston Stanley, who is running the program. B次元官网网址淛ust trying to generate some rugby excitement and buzz and give them a place to train and somewhere to go.B次元官网网址�
Stanley said Velox is looking at a long-term plan to move all of its operations to the West Shore, to take advantage of a growing population and of the presence of the headquarters for Rugby Canada. Velox is tied in with its current location on Gordon Head Rd. until 2015.
B次元官网网址淎s far as a long-term plan, weB次元官网网址檙e trying to set some roots down in the West Shore communities,B次元官网网址� Stanley said. B次元官网网址淪o that thereB次元官网网址檚 a club out there for kids to play at. Right now thereB次元官网网址檚 not.B次元官网网址�
About 13 regular players came out for the fall team. The team didnB次元官网网址檛 win a game, but did manage to field enough players for all games and Stanley said they did well for a new team.
B次元官网网址淚t was pretty positive, I think the kids had a good time,B次元官网网址� Stanley said. B次元官网网址淭heyB次元官网网址檙e young enough that they can stay together for a year or two, hopefully.B次元官网网址�
Anyone interested in taking part can register in person at a Friday session. Registration costs $60 to $75 for the season, to cover costs.
Visit for details.
