Video | Kanturk RFC Host Large National School Blitz
15th June 2023 By The Editor
Kanturk RFC, with the support of Munster Rugby, held a large National School blitz last Friday which saw over 350 players descend on the Duhallow venue for a fun-filled morning of rugby.
These players came from 15 national schools throughout the North County Cork area.
The blitzes offer an easy entry point into the sport for many children who may not have played rugby before.
On Friday we spoke to Kanturk RFC President Tony Daly and Munster Development Coach Ólan Daly who spoke about the benefits of blitz days and also the Club Community Rugby Officer (CCRO) programme which sees Munster coaches running rugby sessions in schools and promoting their local clubs.
“I was a CCRO here for a number of years in Kanturk and it’s going around to the schools and introducing the schools, the teachers and the players to rugby,” Ólan said.
“It’s just giving that enjoyment and then you can see, clubs can see the reward with new players coming in the gate. Once they come through the gate, it’s up to the club to continue that enjoyment for them and keeping them playing in the sport.”
Tony added:
“The vast majority would you believe are children that haven’t played rugby before so that’s really pleasing from our point of view. Our Mini rugby numbers have dipped slightly so we’re looking to recruit again and this is the way it’s going to work.
“They’re getting a taste of rugby in a soft environment, if you like, it’s non-contact. It’s good, it’s really pleasing and it’s really important for the club.”
Tony also said that Kanturk RFC have benefited in the past from CCRO programmes being run.
“We always benefitted from the CCRO programme, we wouldn’t have had the success we’ve had at the moment if it wasn’t for their input with coach development, player development and going through the schools.”
You can watch our interview with Ólan and Tony below where you will also get a taste of the hugely successful event that was held last week.
