MORE than 200 children from 13 schools, including Bristol Brunel Academy in Speedwell, took part in a day of rugby-related activities to encourage more young people to take up the sport.
The T1 MegaFest was held at the Bristol Bears High Performance Centre in Failand in April.
Organised in partnership between the Premiership club and Cabot Learning Federation, it gave pupils the chance to play on an indoor pitch used by the club’s professionals.
Bristol Bears men’s and women’s players including AJ MacGinty, Sam Worsley, Joe Owen, Matias Moroni, Rownita Marston-Mulhearn, Demelza Short, Jenna De Vera, Meryl Smith and Jenny Hesketh took part in games, and offered advice and guidance to the young players, as well as taking time to sign autographs.
The festival was divided into two competitive sessions, with a primary school event in the morning followed by a secondary school competition in the afternoon.
A team of “sports leaders” from City Academy in Redfield led a series of activities for primary pupils and refereed the secondary T1 festival.
The festival promoted the Rugby Football Union’s T1 non-contact format of the game for schools and clubs, which retains key aspects of tag rugby but also allows for other elements from the sport, including kicking and uncontested scrums, to be introduced.
It included game-based activities designed to develop sports and movement skills, build confidence and improve social skills such as teamwork and communication.
Participants were recognised for personal and social attributes, as well as strong rugby skills.
CLF and Bristol Bears Foundation secondary school engagement co-ordinator Theresa Bickell said: “We were incredibly proud to see so many young people come together to enjoy rugby in such a positive and inclusive environment.
“The T1 format is a fantastic way to introduce the game, allowing every child to develop skills, confidence, and a love for rugby.”
Bristol Bears chief executive Tom Tainton said: “Events like this really showcase what our partnership with the Cabot Learning Federation is all about – creating opportunities, building confidence, and using sport to engage and connect.”