WHAT IS MIXED ABILITY RUGBY
Despite what the name conjures up Mixed Ability Rugby is not about disabled rugby. The players are not defined by physical, intellectual or mental disabilities or social barriers. It is open to anyone of any age (over 17) who wants to play rugby OR return to rugby who have no disability in a socially inclusive environment.
Games are played in various iterations from walking rugby, touch rugby through to contact dependent on the teams progress and competence but all in a positive spirit where you cannot but enjoy the experience as player, coach, volunteer and supporter alike.
WATCH THE INTRO VIDEOS TO Berkshire Brigands, simply inspiring.
BERKSHIRE BRIGANDS – BASED AT READING RUGBY CLUB
Berkshire Brigands is a Mixed Ability Rugby team was set up with the support of CH Rugby, Reading RFC, Berkshire RFC and key supporters including; Secure Cloud, Reading RFC Golf Society, 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 team started in 2020/2021 Season and have grown from strength to strength.
CONTACT DETAILS
Website: https://berkshirebrigands.co.uk/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BrigandsRugby
Manager: Colin Stonehouse, 07508 970 534
Manager: Craig Hunter 07798 844202, brigandsrugby@gmail.com
FEATURED ON MERIDIEN TV (Dec 2020)
PLAYER PROFILES
Duncan Stonehouse
Duncan was one of the founders of Berkshire Brigands and simply “wanted to play rugby with his brother”. From this what could be considered a simple request a dream was realised in 2020!
TRAINING
Berkshire Brigands Mixed ability rugby team train regularly on Thursdays and Saturdays at Reading RFC and is open to anyone who want to give it a go. The team adopt and adhere to all RFU, Government and Berkshire RFU policies and guidelines, like any other team.
THURSDAYS – 6.30pm – 8pm
SATURDAYS – 11am – 12.30pm
TRAINING SESSIONS (Videos to see the level of involvement)
https://www.facebook.com/BrigandsRugby/videos/350292756237991
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is mixed ability rugby?
“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”. Craig Hunter.
For more information visit: http://www.mixedabilitysports.org/what-is-mixed-ability-rugby/
What is the Brigands rugby teams ethos?
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.
Are there any age restrictions?
Players initially will have to be a minimum age of 17.
Are there any rule adaptations to truly experience rugby?
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.
Will the Berkshire Brigands play matches against other teams?
The plan is to play against as many other teams as we can throughout the rugby season and aim to put a team into or take people to the annual International Mixed Ability Rugby Tournament. https://www.facebook.com/IMARTworldcup/
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?
Berkshire Brigands are 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?
At the moment the intention is to be a male only team, however the long term goal will be to create a women’s’ 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).
Highlights to Date
- Berkshire Brigands Rugby CIC – registered as a Not-for-profit Community Interest Company to help us generate extra financial support.
- To date we have had 29 players of all abilities taking part. Ages range from 17 – 58, inc 3 ladies in the team, this number they hope will grow in 2021; 12 of the players have never played as part of a rugby team or within a club environment before.
- The team is supported by a team of 6 Level 2 and 3 RFU qualified coaches from 4 different Berkshire RFU clubs, and supported by 15 carers.
- We had visits from BBC South Today and ITV Meridian News and both showcased the Brigands on their prime-time sports reports.
- We have received support from the following organisations: Sport England, Get Berkshire Active, SecureCloud+, Made For Drink, Gilberts Rugby and Berkshire RFU, as well as donations from many individuals.
Updated 15 May 2023
