League: Wiki on hand to help roots grow

Kiwi legend Ruben Wiki will put Rotorua kids through their paces on Saturday when the New Zealand Rugby League Community Roots Carnival hits town.

The carnival, for children aged 5-12, is touring the country and organisers hope at least 200 people will get along to Puketawhero Park to learn a few new skills and meet the former Kiwi captain.

Wiki, who now travels the country promoting rugby league, said he loved being part the carnival.

"We want to entice kids to be more active and interested in playing rugby league," said Wiki.

Upper Central Rugby League general manager Marcus Reynolds said he was excited about bringing the roadshow to Rotorua.

"You get a real buzz when you see so many kids playing rugby league with a smile on their face," said Reynolds. "Rugby league is going crazy in this area and it has the potential to continue that trend, making community days like this an important part of our growth."

Bay of Plenty coaching and development officer Len Reid said rugby league was growing in popularity in the region and 2011 had seen massive growth across the grades.

"Days like the Roots Carnival are a great way of showcasing rugby league and is all part of our commitment to the grassroots part of the game," he said.

Parents and aspiring coaches will have the opportunity to take part in the Fundamental Coaching course and get their first coaching certificate free of charge. There will also be a raffle with two ANZAC test tickets and a signed Kiwis jersey up for grabs.

Registrations open at 9am at Puketawhero Park, Vaughans Rd, Te Ngae. The skills and drills get under way shortly after. Every child taking part gets a free breakfast and rugby league gift pack. The day is free and open to everyone, not just rugby league players, aged between 5-12 years old.

 

Email: sport@dailypost.co.nz