The VI’s under 19 rugby team is preparing to represent the Territory at the end this month in the Dominican Republic.
The team who is being readied by new Coach James Morris will head off to the Dominican Republic from May 30th - June 2nd for further training and development matches.
“We now have an U19’s team up and running with a tour to look forward to in the Dominican Republic end of May. This is a development weekend with Dominican Republic and Bahamas U19’s also attending. We arrive on Friday 30th May, will have competitive 7s games on the Saturday and will run coaching and development sessions on the Sunday. We fly back to BVI after a fun filled weekend of rugby on Monday 2nd June.” National Coach James Morris stated.
Fundraising efforts were done to assist the team financially, which included a wine tasting event held at Myett’s on April 12th, which raised further funds for the tour. The event proved successful and brought the community together to support the U19 squad.
“As their coach I’m really proud of these boys and their commitment to training as a team. We are progressing week to week and really looking forward to the tour to Dominican Republic!” Coach Morris further stated.
The Sevens Project and New Coach
James Morris who arrived on island some 6 months ago, is holding the positions of National Coach and Rugby Development Officer at BVI Rugby, the body that overseas rugby development in the Territory; the governing body of Rugby Union in the British Virgin Islands. An Associate member of World Rugby, Full member of Rugby Americas North (RAN Rugby) as well as a member of the BVI Olympic Committee (BVIOC).
Morris has so far designed and delivered the ‘BVI Rugby - School Rugby 7’s project’ which is a scheme of work delivered in local schools, and aimed at getting students into rugby.
“In terms of a player pathway this starts with development in schools with children and young adults learning and enjoying the game, before feeding into and working alongside the local community. with the end goal being to develop club and national players to represent BVI rugby in international tournaments and fixtures. In terms of values we are looking to teach and promote: Enjoyment, Team Work & Integrity.” Coach Morris said.
The organisation continues to seek public support in growing and developing rugby across the Territory. Interested businesses and persons willing to support can get in touch with Coach James on rdo@bvirugby.org.