North East Juniors Speak Out
On Monday 22 March Rugby League in the North East held an inaugural Youth Forum. Junior players from Community Clubs, Cramlington Rockets, Durham Tigers, Peterlee Pumas, Wallsend Eagles and Whitley Bay Barbarians all attended the event held at Gateshead International Stadium.
The Youth Forum provided an opportunity for players to express their opinions on Club/Coaching, the Summer Season and the North East Junior League. It also provided RFL staff with an insight into the positive and negative aspects of Rugby League in the North East.
Due to the growth of Rugby League in the North East it is essential we receive feedback from the players on the ground to ensure we are providing a high quality sporting environment. The results from the evening will now be circulated to the clubs so they are aware of the junior players' opinions.
Jade Mackie, Youth Volunteer Coordinator stated: "Initially I was worried the players may be cautious in expressing their opinion, however the evening was a real success and the players were extremely open and honest. The 'Who Wants to be a Millionaire' style Qwizdom handsets from County Durham Sport went down a storm and the players appeared to be more relaxed with being able to provide anonymous answers. As this was the first Forum, I am hoping they will grow over the coming seasons in relation to the junior growth occurring across the region."
One player stated: "It was good to be listened to and to hear what other players thought from other clubs. It was good to be able to give answers knowing it was not traced back to individuals. I really enjoyed the forum."
If you are interested in becoming involved with Rugby League in the North East please feel free to visit the North East Rugby League website, http://www.northeastrl.co.uk