Coaching Academy Session
Alabang Eagles RFC, Philippines – 21st March 2014

Academy Coaches: Deano Herewini and Craig Brown

With the first visit to the Phillipinnes, another milestone was achieved by the Penguin Coaching Academy. Our thanks to Nikki, Philippines RFU, for assisting in setting up the session. A seventy minute journey from Manila found the coaches in Alabang, where rugby is developing, and future rugby stars anticipated from the SOS & Alabang Eagles RFC. All involved showed how passionate the locals are for the sport is in this country.

Craig Brown & Deano Herewini greeted a vibrant and excited group of local Filipino children from the SOS charity. Their ages ranged from 9 to 17 years, with equal numbers of boys and girls. Most of the children were new to rugby. Indeed, many were only one month into their rugby careers, and still learning the basics, including in which direction to run. Following a variety of drills, skills, and games delivered by the Coaches, the children were enthusiastic for more and more.

The session concentrated on passing skills and defence and attacking alignments. After several drills the session ended with 2 games of touch (with line-outs).

A fantastic time was had by all, with the Penguin coaches noting some excellent running and evasion skills. There is room for all to improve, and the Penguin Academy looks forward to returning to assist the development in the future.

The Philippines' national men’s 15s team plays in the Asian 5 Nations competition's top tier, and we are sure some of today’s stars will become national players in years to come.

Photos