Bowlers help junior rugby

As close to 1000 youngsters take to the fields of Marton, Taihape, Hunterville and Spriggens Park tomorrow, the old boys on the bowling green have given some a helping hand.

Laird Park Bowling Club held their 28th annual rugby tournament last weekend, with an excellent turnout in good weather conditions over the two days.

The funds raised saw a $600 donation made to the Kaierau Rugby Club juniors for their coming season.

Laird Park club secretary Alison Hylton said this year the men were encouraged to play in rugby shirts, with many taking up the offer by bringing out an old jumper or borrowing a more modern strip.

Several were Kaierau old boys, who would have been pleased to see the youngsters from their club getting this year's donation, while those in Marist colours were also noticeable.

Players from Lower Hutt, Dannevirke, Marton, Bulls and Hawera made the pilgrimage to take part.

Kaierau president Geoff Davies said the money would go into the junior accountand is spent on items such as training gear.

"It's just a good concept and a great cause to support junior rugby in Wanganui," Davies said.

Starting from 9am tomorrow, the McDonalds Under 6 to Under 13 age grades kick off across the district, while the teenaged divisions from Under 19 on down have their first run.

In addition on Sunday, Wanganui community rugby development officer Jordan Farrington is holding a "Tackle Box" session at Cook Gardens.

This is for the Small Blacks grades who are learning to tackle.

The session is open to parents and coaches as well as players.