World rugby course opens in Davao

DAVAO. Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) Director Matt Cullen talks to development officers Rose Mae Lanticse and Blessie Kate Delos Santos at the sidelines of the Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) World Rugby Coaching Course level one at the Ateneo de Davao University Matina campus. (Adam B. Morrell)

THE Philippine Rugby Football Union (PRFU) World Rugby Coaching Course level one opened at the Ateneo de Davao University Matina AVR 4 Saturday, June 25.

A total of 15 participants came to experience and learn the basic course of coaching. PRFU director Matt Cullen, in an interview with Sun.Star Davao Saturday, hopes to develop the sport among the youth of the Philippines and give them the opportunity to learn as it can be played by both boys and girls.

"Ultimately we wanted the kids to represent the country in 14, 16, and 20 or become a part of the Philippine Volcanoes." Cullen also aims to educate the youth, adding, "We wanted to teach the fundamentals of rugby football, and to do this, we will start teaching touch rugby which is non-contact."

The course, according to him, also aims to empower coaches. "Today they are learning the coaching course which is certified and they will be able to go out now and teach young players how to play touch rugby and tackle rugby in a safe environment."

Former Davao Durian rugby football player Hilton Soberano, in a separate interview, said advantages of courses like this will allow him to share his passion and learning to others.

"I am one of the people assisting coach Rose and coach Blessie especially pag nagtuturo sila sa mga grassroots level, ma i-apply ko ang learning ko dito."
Former development player of the national team William Leysa, who came from General Santos, wished to open the first rugby football club in his hometown.
"Kailangan kasi ng coaching experience and certificate para makatayo ang club, and advantage kasi ito para makakuha ka ng maraming ideas at principles of coaching."

The World Rugby level 1 match officials course will be tackled today at the same venue while the first World Rugby Get in to Rugby Program in the Philippines is slated July 2 and 3 at SOS Children's Village Davao.

Published in the Sun.Star Davao newspaper on June 25, 2016. Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/davao/sports/2016/06/25/world-rugby-course-opens-481629