The GB squad have been hard at it in their final camp ahead of the Canada Cup in Vancouver next week. This will be the first big test for the new squad as they get to play some of the top teams in the world including Australia, Canada and Japan. The team is looking fit and it is good to see Manni and Chris back and fully recovered from their injuries. Good luck to them for their final big tournament ahead of the World Championships in August.
Meanwhile the first Talent camp took place at Lillishall last week where athletes were introduced to the elite pathway and got to understand about the commitment and expectations that are fundamental to the elite player journey. Individuals participated in testing and technical and tactical sessions. They will come together again in August, where they will continue to work towards their first competition at a Rugby Mania in November.
On Thursday I was in Leicester to meet with the DMG and many of the club coaches. It was great to see so many people there and so many new faces as most of our new and fledgling clubs were represented. There was some good debate, especially around the issue of game variants and providing opportunities for those who want to play but are not classifiable. Listening to the positive experiences of coaches like Darren Mathews and Rob Tarr, who has taken some Rugby Wheels sessions, was helpful and provided an insight into some of the challenges of working with different impairment groups. Kirsty and Lorraine were able to update on our plans for coach development which is a top priority this year, particularly around supporting new clubs and new coaches.
We also discussed the importance of individuals and clubs having their say in the work going on to determine a new GBWR Membership and Club Affiliation process. This work has now started and the DMG will have an important consultation role ahead of members getting the opportunity to vote on the final proposal at the AGM which will now take place on 8 October this year in Leicester. As the work develops we will also use the website and this blog to keep people up to speed and allow you an opportunity to comment.
Our various development programmes continue. There is just over a week to go now before ‘TAKEPART’, the festival of sport being delivered by Brighton & Hove City Council Sports Development department. There will be a festival day in Preston Park on the 21st June 12pm to 5pm, followed by 2 weeks of activity around the city. GBWR will be taking part in the festival day, with an information stand and 2 outdoor taster sessions. There are also sessions being delivered at Headley Court, Catterick and Tedworth in June as part of our Military programme. Alongside this Mike Spence and Paul Jenkins are getting ready to start trials for the Invictus Games.
To finish on what I hope will be a positive note – this year Membership fees will not increase but will be held at the 2013-14 rates. Fees are due no later than 1 August and Daniel will be in touch with members with all payment details. Enjoy the sunshine!
David Pond
