Last Sunday marked a milestone for youth rugby in the Philippines with the successful launch of the Nomads Juniors program. Hosted on the greens of the Don Jones Field at the British School Manila, the event saw an enthusiastic turnout with sessions running from 9 am to 11 am.
The budding athletes were split into two age divisions: under 13s and under 18s, with training sessions tailored to their specific developmental needs. At the helm of coaching was Mike Kramer, a seasoned high school teacher from the International School Manila. Mike, a distinguished leader and prominent player of the Manila Nomads Rugby Team, brought his expertise and passion to the pitch.
Coaching alongside Mike for the under 13s was Lin Tan, a club officer, coach, and a key player for the Manila Nomads women’s team—Nomads Rogues. Their combined experience provided a solid foundation for the younger group.
The under-18s had the privilege of being mentored by Kai Stroem, Hamish Seddon, Jason Shirmer, Raph Barberis, and George Nield—all stalwart players of the Philippine National Team, the Volcanoes. This elite group of coaches infused the training with high-level insights, fostering a professional atmosphere for the older participants.
The focus of the program was not just on skills but also on fun and movement. The coaches ensured a comprehensive agenda that included warmup activities, dynamic stretching, ball handling, evading opponents, support play, and the essentials of contact and kicking. There was a keen emphasis on overcoming the three common fears in rugby—the ground, the ball, and the opponent. Through this approach, young athletes engage in a fun-filled learning experience that contributes significantly to their overall development.
The vision of Nomads Juniors is clear: to create a leading youth rugby program in the Philippines that nurtures skilled, disciplined, and well-rounded young athletes. The mission is to instill a love for the game within a positive and disciplined framework, emphasizing respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Parents and young enthusiasts are encouraged to be part of this initiative. Training sessions are free every Sunday until December 10th, offering a perfect opportunity for children and teenagers to discover and deepen their interest in rugby.
How to Join the Nomads Juniors:
- Register: Visit Nomads Juniors Registration to sign up.
- Attendance: Arrive a bit before 9 am on Sundays to sign in.
- Gear Up: Come in comfortable sports attire and appropriate footwear—rubber shoes, turf cleats, or rugby boots.
- Post-Game: Bring a change of clothes and a water bottle for hydration.
We invite the community to follow our journey, share in our excitement, and connect with us:
Like our Facebook Page: Nomads Juniors Rugby
Join our Private FB Group: Nomads Juniors Rugby Members
Connect on WhatsApp: Nomads Juniors Members WhatsApp Group
Connect via Email: youthrugby@manilanomads.com or nomadsyouthrugby@gmail.com
Together, let’s tackle the future of rugby in the Philippines, one try at a time! 🏉
Nomads Juniors Photos by Francis Lumahan