2017 YEAR IN REVIEW: HSBC ROOKIE RUGBY PRES. BY HONDA

Rugby truly is a game for all.

In October over 80 kids with various developmental and physical disabilities from six Ottawa schools got the opportunity to take to the field as part of a HSBC Rookie Rugby presented by Honda jamboree.  

Assisted by local rugby programs – Carleton University Ravens, Ottawa Beavers and Banshees – the athletes took part in relay races, skill sessions and non-contact games at Carleton University.

“Today was a fantastic day for rugby. We had dozens of kids take part in fun games here in Ottawa and it was great seeing everyone enjoying learning the game,” said Erin Kennedy, Rugby Canada’s Rugby Mass Participation Program Consultant.

“I’d like to say a big thank you to LeeAnn Napiorkowski and the local rugby players who volunteered their time to make today special and help introduce the sport of rugby to the community in Ottawa,” Kennedy added.

Ottawa native and former Canada Men’s Team captain Al Charron was also in attendance to help share wisdom from his 76 appearances on the world stage. Rugby Canada Chairman Tim Powers, who is a member of the Ottawa Irish, also took part.

“This is the best time I have had at rugby in a bit,” said Rugby Canada Chairman via his personal Twitter account. “Thank you again to all involved!"

Children all across Canada have been introduced to the game of rugby through Rugby Canada’s mass participation program, HSBC’s Rookie Rugby, presented by Honda. In 2016 alone, over 87,000 kids played rugby for the first time in schools and communities. The program has been raising the profile of rugby in Canada and Rugby Canada is devoted to helping the community be prepared.

To learn more about Rookie Rugby, please visit: https://rookierugby.ca/en/

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