A sure sign that summer is coming to an end is the start of rugby training. And this year it is 'serious'. Josh is the youngest Mustang and the team are playing in the U9's with 10-a-side and they play on roughly half a pitch sideways - so lots of running and lots of fitness required! New rules including restarts by kickoffs and fending is allowed (although not encouraged thank goodness!).
This season they are also given set positions to play. Coach Kevin has put a lot of time and thought into placing the Mustangs in positions suited to their strengths. Joshua has been given the position of HALF-BACK or in northern-hemisphere-speak, SCRUM HALF. This is a great position for Josh as he will be the lynch pin between getting the ball from the forwards and getting it out to the backs. He won't be involved in the scrum with all the pushing and as long as he has quick hands, he should avoid being 'munched' by the opposition. Fear is a wonderful motivator so I am sure Josh will learn quick passing!
We have 14 Mustangs (10 boys and 4 girls) and tonight they met to 'pound their hooves' at Wakefield Park.
We feel very lucky that the Mustangs have 3 coaches this year. Coach Kevin who is quite exceptional remains as the head coach and he is supported by Tom's dad Coach Rob, and Joshua's dad Coach Paul (just quietly ... Josh is delighted that Daddy is one of the coaches). This year the Mustangs also have an 'official' Manager ... yes Joshua's Mummy - me!! Now that the coaching is becoming more technical, the Club (and NZRUF) suggest separating the roles of coach and manager. So I will be doing all the work behind the scenes no doubt!
Well it is going to be an 'interesting' season and this year will truly be the time to find out who wants to play rugby and ... who doesn't.
Josh looking at tad worried at the first team briefing by Coach Kevin
Don't be fooled by this skinny little line-up ... looks can be deceiving!
Josh trying out at his new position as HALF-BACK placing the ball into the scrum
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