Wild rugby

Volume 48, No. 16, Sepetember 7, 2006

SPORTSMANSHIP: ACT Brumbies player Jone Tawake and ADFA Rugby Union team captain OFFCDT David Mann on the ground that the two clubs will share throughout September. Photo by LAC Allan Cooper

By LAC Allan Cooper

THE ADFA rugby team had a taste of first grade training when they enjoyed a combined session with the ACT Brumbies in Canberra.

The Brumbies conducted the training as part of an agreement where the club will use a range of ADFA facilities including the indoor sports centre, swimming pool and sporting ovals until the end of September.

“The facilities are tremendous and we are really positive and looking forward to being here,” said Brumbies assistant coach Matt O’Connor.

“It will be our primary training base for the duration of the Australian Provisional Championships.”

This was the first training session that the ADFA team has participated in and team captain OFFCDT David Mann said it was a great experience for the whole team.

“It was very beneficial to experience this level of rugby. These are the guys we can aspire to in our rugby playing career. It was a great opportunity,” OFFCDT Mann said.

The training session began with a quick warm up followed by an informal game of touch football. The boys from ADFA played well and tried their best, but the sheer size and skill of the Brumbies was evident.
Matt O’Connor said that while the skill level was quite different, the two teams had a lot in common.

“In relation to the ethos of the armed forces and team sports, a lot carries over. It is the common links such as team building and spirit that we are keen to tap into.”

Brumbies coaches and players will provide coaching and development training to the ADFA rugby team during their stay.

The Australian Provincial Championships will see the Brumbies play against the Reds, Waratahs and Western Force during September 2006.

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