By Keenan Maxwell
A series of events tailored to young touch players throughout Counties Manukau was launched this month, and the reception has been overwhelmingly positive.
The ‘Touch Extender Programs’ are designed to engage tamariki and rangatahi to have fun through touch rugby. It uses fun games to teach fundamental skills and improve physical literacy.
Sessions range in length from 45 – 75 minutes, and are scaled to suit all ages and abilities. Auckland Regional Development Manager for Touch New Zealand Harley Wall said the programs play an important role in both the development of existing players, and the growth of the game overall,
“The extenders are compact, and effective – my team and I support with the initial launch of these kaupapa, but essentially it is the community that drive them and it’s through that familiarity and connection with the community that we have seen these become such a hit,” Wall said.
“Our goal is to have an extender program in every suburb in Counties. Ensuring they stay free and easily assessable is important, CLM and the Tū Manawa grants have been amazing at providing funding for the South Auckland based groups to roll these out – we can’t thank them enough.”
It was a great first night at Barry Curtis Park on Monday, with over 80 children showing up and participating.
Luke Chapman from Elementz Sports Club notes how important it is for free programs like this throughout the Counties area.
“There’s nothing better than some South Auckland sunshine, and a heap of smiling kids playing touch footy. The vibe was positive, and it really was a family affair with parents, older siblings and members of our Elementz club lending a hand to support,” Chapman said.
The Extender series also signalled a positive step in the right direction following a Covid-19-impacted touch season.
Many of those participating on Monday night would have missed out on so much as a result of Auckland’s prolonged lockdown last year, with the alert level changes forcing cancellations of many sports events and carnivals.
“Any activity or positivity in the community is so needed right now, especially on the doorstep of Otara/Clover park. Reconnecting, laughing, joking is all part of who we are as people and a community – touch, and sport in general connects us and will keep us together,” Chapman added.
There are Extender series’ running currently, throughout the Counties Manukau region. These programs are proudly supported by CLM Community Sport & the Tū Manawa fund as well as Counties Manukau Touch Association.
Mondays
Elementz Extender: Barry Curtis Park, Flat Bush
Tuesdays:
Manukau Rovers Extender: Williams Park, Māngere
Wednesdays:
PURC Extender: Bell Park, Pakuranga
All Seasons Extender: Gallaher Park, Manurewa
To find out more information, head to the Counties Manukau Touch Association Facebook page.
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