INTRODUCING “BERKSHIRE BRIGANDS”
A new team to be run out of Reading Rugby Club for mixed ability players.
Berkshire Brigands Mixed Ability Rugby team has been set up with the support of Berkshire RFU, Reading RFC, CH Rugby, Get Berkshire Active and IMAS (International Mixed Ability Sports) who have helped this new team connect with established Mixed Ability Rugby teams across the UK.
The inspiration behind this team is Duncan and the Stonehouse family members at Reading RFC, Colin, Kate, Drew & Evie, as Duncan wanted to play rugby with his brother Drew, who he has watched play for many years.
I managed to grab a few minutes with the co-founder of the team and ever present on the Berkshire rugby scene, Craig Hunter
What gave you the idea to create a “Mixed Ability” rugby team at Reading RFC?
CH – The inspiration behind this team is Duncan and the Stonehouse family members at Reading RFC, Colin, Kate, Drew & Evie, as Duncan wanted to play rugby with his brother Drew, who he has watched play for many years. I remember asking Duncan what would be the most exciting part about playing (Mixed Ability) rugby and he responded “Play rugby, tackle and kick goals” . My mind was set to make it happen.
What is mixed ability rugby?
CH – Mixed Ability rugby is not a new form of the game. There are some teams that have been around for more than 25 year however there has never been a team in Berkshire and I wanted to continue with the inclusive approach with a new team in the county. (For more information see IMAS – International Mixed Ability Sports website http://www.mixedabilitysports.org/what-is-mixed-ability-rugby/ )
How long has mixed rugby been around?
CH – Swansea Gladiators (in Wales) are recognised as the oldest Mixed Ability rugby team and are now in their 26th year!
How would you describe the Brigands rugby teams ethos?
CH – Just another rugby team! It is not a disability team, players are not classified by physical, intellectual or mental disabilities or barriers. It is a team open to anyone who wants to play regular full contact rugby… for rugby’s sake. If you happen to have some form of disability or barrier but want to play regular rugby, then you are more than welcome. The same goes if you have no disability or barrier. Games are played in true rugby spirit where of course you want to win, but either side getting hammered on the scoreboard isn’t much fun.
What other teams are playing mixed ability rugby?
There are currently over 30 teams around the country including local/regional teams such as Surrey Chargers and Eastleigh Hurricanes
Are there any age restrictions?
CH – Players initially will have to be a minimum age of 17.
Will the Brigands play matches against other teams?
CH – Once set up, the plan is to play against as many other teams as we can throughout the rugby season but with the long term goal of putting a team into or take people to the IMART 21 in Cork – International Mixed Ability Rugby Tournament..
NOTE: It was due to be played this year but covid stopped it has been moved to 2021 https://www.facebook.com/IMARTworldcup/
Are there any rule adaptations (notwithstanding the current Covid restrictions?) to truly experience rugby?
CH – Mixed Ability has to play the same format as a regular rugby team, and we do. The only law change is uncontested scrums which you often see in social or veteran matches too.
When do you start training?
CH – Training will take place at Reading RFC on Thursday evenings 6.30 – 8pm and Saturdays 11am – 12.30pm . We will have the first training session this Saturday 26th September with Surrey Chargers joining us for a joint training session. The team will adopt and adhere to all RFU, Government and Berkshire RFU policies and guidelines, like any other team.
What kit do potential players need to bring to training?
Players are encouraged to wear any kit they have, shorts, tracksuit bottoms, t-shirts or rugby shirts depending upon the weather, socks and either football boots or rugby boots. All training is outside so players need to dress for all weather.
How are players supported in training?
We are very pleased that multiple coaches from across the county have volunteered to get involved. Clubs confirmed to date include; Reading, Rams, Windsor, Maidenhead and Bracknell. All coaches and volunteers will have carried out the RFU DBS check and will have attended the appropriate Safeguarding courses required.
Are Berkshire Brigands a male only team?
CH – At the moment the intention is to be a male only team, however the long term goal will be to create a ladies team as well. As there are non-contact games taking place we welcome ladies to attend training and they can play in matches (where mixed gender & touch rules apply).
TRAINING
Berkshire Brigands Mixed ability rugby team will start regular sessions on Thursdays and Saturdays at Reading RFC from mid September (Date to be confirmed) and is open to anyone to give it a go. The team will adopt and adhere to all RFU, Government and Berkshire RFU policies and guidelines, like any other team.
If people want to find out more before getting involved how do they contact you?
CH – I am happy for people to contact me directly on my mobile (Craig Hunter – 07798 844202) or on Facebook or by email brigandsrugby@gmail.com
