Pelican Rugby Club Launches Exciting Youth Program in Tampa Bay!

Davis Common Park, Pinellas County, USA - The St. Pete Pelicans, a local staple since 1977, are making waves in the Tampa Bay area with their newly launched youth rugby program, aimed specifically at kids aged 7 to 15. This initiative seeks not just to introduce the sport to youngsters but also to create an inclusive environment that brings together children from various backgrounds. Currently, practices for the youth teams are held bi-weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Davis Common Park, Pinellas County, where the excitement of rugby is palpable.

Head coach Aidan Stotts is at the forefront of this exciting journey, passionate about imparting his love for rugby to the next generation. Having started his own rugby career in college, Stotts has witnessed the transformative power of the sport firsthand. He emphasizes that beyond the physical aspects, rugby cultivates essential life skills like focus, discipline, and confidence. With participation on the rise, the youth team already boasts a notable achievement—winning the 12U state championship, a feat accomplished by players with as little as one or two years of experience in the sport. As ABC Action News reports, this success showcases the potential for growth in both the club and its young athletes.

A Focus on Development

The Pelican Rugby Club’s mission goes beyond just teaching the game. The club is dedicated to empowering young athletes through the core values of teamwork, respect, and personal growth. Their youth program extends to players aged U10 to U19, fostering a safe and nurturing environment where all kids can thrive. With a focus on five foundational principles, they ensure every child receives personal attention and care.

• Safety: Coaches are trained and verified, as rugby is recognized as one of the safest contact sports.
• Community: The club welcomes players of all sizes, backgrounds, and genders, promoting mutual respect and discouraging aggressive behavior.
• Opportunity for Kids: The sport not only builds confidence and fitness but also offers increased scholarship opportunities, particularly with the Rugby World Cup on the horizon in the USA.
• Coordination and Fitness for Other Sports: Engaging in rugby enhances skills and fitness levels that translate to improved performance in other sports like football, track, and soccer.
• Flexibility: With just two one-hour practices per week and weekend matches, the program provides a time-efficient alternative to other sports, requiring minimal equipment and modest fees primarily for national rugby union dues.

As the community rallies around this burgeoning program, the benefits extend beyond the field. With children learning invaluable life skills and forming lasting friendships, the ripple effect is felt far and wide. For parents watching their children flourish in a supportive environment, there’s certainly something special about this initiative.

Challenges in the Neighborhood

While the Pelicans sweat it out on the field, neighboring issues remind us of the complexities in their surroundings. A recent report discussed troubling instances of homeowners facing foreclosure in the area, and even an unfortunate incident where a woman was jailed over lawn complaints. The stark contrast between these challenges and the uplifting nature of youth sports underscores the importance of community support and engagement.

With a firm commitment to enrich young lives through rugby, the St. Pete Pelicans are not only nurturing future athletes but also building a brighter communal spirit in Tampa Bay. Interested families can find more details about this promising program by visiting the Pelican Rugby Club’s official site at Pelican Rugby.