Year 5 and 6 students from Caloundra State School have enjoyed their first taste of rugby league through a program that encourages young girls to try the game.
More than 120 students trained twice a week before school for more than a term, learning the rules of the game and the core skills of passing, tackling and working as a team.
Interest was so strong that the school was able to field two teams, one from Year 5 and one from Year 6, in the Karyn Murphy Cup held at Nambour earlier this month.
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Physical Education teacher Nigel Rosenthal said some team members had played for their club on the weekend, but for the majority of the girls it was their first time on the field.
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“We are so proud of our girls, many of who were out of their comfort zone but so keen to have a go and try something new,” he said.
“We have some very keen and talented players in this group who are improving every game they play.
“On the day we had a simple message which was to go out there and have fun, try to make your tackles and support each other.
“Our girls really showed great spirit and were great ambassadors for our school. After a break for a lightning and a thunder storm, the girls played a couple of muddy matches to complete the carnival.
“It’s terrific for Caloundra to take a strong role in offering young girls the opportunity to participate in rugby league and enjoy the game in a safe and supportive way.”
Caloundra State School is currently accepting enrolments of students in all year levels from Prep to Year 6 and more information is available via the school website www.caloundrass.eq.edu.au.