While much of the focus at the KARI Ella 7s next year will be focused on the top level talent offered by the tournament's senior men and women sides in early March, the first event to be held in Dubbo in the competition's history will also have a wealth of opportunities for junior players.
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The Rugby Union contest, that was moved to Rugby League heartland of the Central West after the usual staging ground in Coffs Harbour was ruled unavailable for 2020, has been focused on outreach this year, and hopes are that the contest could have a big impact locally.
Lloyd McDermott Rugby Development Team's Rod Willey says organisers of the early March tournament set to be held at Apex Oval are endeavouring to make the preceding two day juniors tournament just as big for the region's youngest players.
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Primary school aged sides will compete on the Thursday proceeding the event on March 5, while high school aged players will get the chance to compete on the Friday, before the womens competition begins in earnest that evening.
The primary school aged entrants are under 12s, while the high school contingent will feature years 7, 8, 9/10 and 11/12.
Schools looking to enter a side must ensure that their team has at least 50 percent indigenous representation, with $500 being awarded to the winning schools.
"What we found is that a lot of indigenous kids in those youngest age groups aren't playing union at the moment, so what we're hoping is that they might be a bit more comfortable playing in this environment," Willey said.
"The hope there for us and for them is that then they might go back, have a chat with their friends and family and think 'well, I should try out for my local club'."
Willey said that the competition could function as a gateway to many other opportunities.
"What we've found with Rugby is that it opens up a lot of doors to further education, we've found that a lot of schools in Sydney and the universities out there are quite keen to recruit talented students who excel in the academic and sporting world."
Thursday's event will focus on introducing the youngest raft of players to the game, with a small side of games planned to be played as well as offering an opportunity to children who might be interested in starting out in Rugby.
"A lot of kids in this area are really rusted on League fans, and we'll try and persuade them that Rugby's a good alternative and they can always do both, as my two kids have done, we're really excited to show them what's on offer out there in Rugby."
Those interested in finding out more or to register their interest, can contact Lloyd McDermott's Development Team member Rod Willey on either 0402 006 130 or at rod.willey@rugby.com.au in order to register a school age side.