Orkney RFC teams up with Orkney Disability Forum

2/7/2014

Orkney RFC works with Orkney's Mini Commonwealth Celebration 2014, a collaborative sports programme between Orkney Disability Forum and St Colm's/Keelylang.

Bruce Ruthven led three exciting tag rugby sessions on Tuesday mornings from 11am - 12pm from 6th May to 20th May as part of the Orkney Mini Commonwealth Celebration 2014. The sessions were set up in the Pickaquoy Centre in 2 side by side courts (1/2 arena) and were enjoyed by all participants from St Colm's, Scottish Autism and independent individuals.

Every session started with a warm up to loosen the muscles and build a little aerobic exercise to get the heart pumping with sidestep running, dodging and running, high knees and bottom flick kicks. Moving on individuals challenged hand/eye co-ordination and agility with ball exercises to get a little practice in before moving onto the team working challenges.
The group was split into two teams and the competitive spirit came to the fore when reaching for each others tags from their velcro belts. This prepared both teams for using quick footwork to dodge each other, without being tagged, and those with speed and agility really showed their skills and scored several tries.

With increased practice in the above skills there were many players who took to the game with determination. All were encouraged to become quick footed and develop the ability to see an opening by increasing their observation skills, but all had beaming smiles and beads of sweat which is a good indication of a game well played.

"Three appreciative cheers were given to Bruce and Mark for their fun and well paced session enjoyed by all players and spectators alike, many thanks to them for your support." Jane.

Development officer Bruce Ruthven commented;

"I have really enjoyed the sessions with the guys, they have worked really hard and shown a real appetite for the activities undertaken, tag rugby has been a great avenue to promote health, exercise and well being. Well done to all the participants for their efforts."