BA(G) Rugby Singapore 2006 - Community Work
4-5 November 2006

During the BA(G) Rugby Tour to compete in the Singapore International 7's, the BA(G) squad took time out from their training programme to undertake three coaching clinics in local schools and clubs. These sessions had been organised by the Defence Advisor from the British High Commission.

Tanglin Rugby club the Junior Section of the Singapore Cricket Club were the first hosts and nearly 200 children from 5 to 16 years old including an all girls team were put through there paces.

Capt Nick Panter 12 Regt RA had the squad fully prepared with drills and practice sessions mapped out. The BA(G) players were leading on the coaching to develop their presentation and leadership skills, all players were nervous before the session and gradually embraced the children's enthusiasm. Following an hours hard work the children relaxed to the touchline to witness a game of touch rugby between BA (G) and the children's fathers. Despite the fathers best efforts, BA (G) showed everybody their full repertoire of skills to win the match and round off an enjoyable morning.

Unfortunately the training session with Tanglin School had to be cancelled due to a severe thunderstorm, 100 children huddled under cover for an hour hoping for the weather to abate to no avail and everybody had to return home disappointed.

The highlight of the tour apart from a successful competition was the visit to Dover Court School, 82 Under 10's kept the BA(G) squad very busy for an hour and were followed by 71 Under 14's. Dover provides education for all children with Special Needs within Singapore, rugby is not a core sport for the school and BA (G)'s visit is seen as something different. The enthusiasm and commitment of all the children taking part as well as the young soldiers efforts to produce enjoyable and constructive coaching sessions created a wonderful afternoon. This was all rounded off with a mass group photograph and BA (G) Rugby captain L/Cpl Jim Tuitubou SDG leading the BA (G) squad in singing the school children a traditional Fijian song of thanks.