CHILDREN GIVEN RUGBY MASTERCLASS BY ENGLAND COACH
17th September 2009
Youngsters at a leading independent prep school on the outskirts of Harrogate were treated to a masterclass in rugby ahead of the forthcoming season when England coach Jon Callard dropped by.
Children at Belmont Grosvenor School, based at Swarcliffe Hall, Birstwith, were put through their paces by the former England rugby union fullback, who is now a coach at the Rugby Football Union’s National Academy.
The unique training session took place at the co-educational school’s rugby pitches in Birstwith – and headteacher Jane Merriman said the afternoon had been a great success. “This was a unique opportunity for the boys to learn from an experienced player and coach, and we are so grateful to Jon for giving up his time,” said Mrs Merriman.Year 5 and 6 boys spent the afternoon with Mr Callard, who taught them passing, tackling and kicking skills, and then played a game of tag rugby. “The boys thoroughly enjoyed their session and hopefully they will utilise their new skills during the fixtures in the coming season,” added Mrs Merriman.
Jon Callard played rugby union at fullback for Bath and England, making his international debut for England against the All Blacks in 1993. His coaching career has included spells at Bath and Leeds, and he is a former head coach of the England U21s. He joined the Rugby Football Union’s National Academy in the summer of 2005 and was appointed ‘kicking coach’ to the senior England rugby team for the Rugby World Cup in 2007.
Children at Belmont Grosvenor School, set in more than 20 acres of grounds, have access to a wide range of sports throughout the year, including soccer, rugby, cricket, tennis, pop lacrosse and rounders. The school has its own indoor swimming pool. Pupils regularly compete in matches and friendly competitions against other schools both locally and further afield.
The rugby coaching session at Belmont Grosvenor School was an auction prize at the school’s Magic Tree Ball, held in June. Dozens of items went under the hammer during the PTA-organised event, which raised £13,350 – with the money divided between the school and the Meningitis Research Foundation.
The school is holding an open morning on Saturday 3 October between 10am and 12 noon. Anyone wanting more information should visit the school’s website on www.belmontgrosvenor.co.uk or call on 01423 771029.
