Teacher Hosts Touch Rugby Championships III

– Elementary School Rugby –

Due to the great success of the Middle School Touch Rugby project (Day 01 / Day 02), Mr. Smith taught touch rugby in physical education classes at Colegio San Ignacio de la Ssalle to all of the Chilean elementary school students from third to sixth grades. The idea was to better bridge the gap between learning English in the classroom and the practical application of the English language. These students came prepared with a positive attitude and high energy in learning a new sport. The semester long project concluded with a full day touch rugby championships that included 52 games!!! The students did more than just improve their English. They learned a new sport, teamwork, communication, and life lessons. Thanks to the Valparaiso Rugby Referee Association (ARRV) for send a referee to help with the tournament.

– Preliminary Rounds –

– Elimination Rounds –

– Championship Rounds –

– Lunch Break –

We all enjoyed an outdoor lunch break from 12:00 – 12:45. The students took cover under the trees to cool off.

– Tournament of Champions –

The champions of each division got a chance to play one extra championship game to determine who would be the best of the best. For example: The third grade champion played against the fourth grade champions. Also, these tournament of champions games were not going to be so easy. In sevens rugby, the championship game is 10 minute halves for a twenty minute game instead of seven minutes a half for a 14 minute game. Here, it was decided to combine fields 01 and 02 to double the size of the playing area instead of extending the time. Below is how the games were structured.

– Awards Ceremony –

What a fantastic day of elementary school touch rugby. The kids not only learned to play a new sport, but got to enjoy a day of friendly competition. The physical education teachers also benefited by being able to include rugby into their classes. We held an awards ceremony from 14:00 – 15:00. Trophies were presented to each boys and girls grade level champions, tournament champions as well as a boys and girls most valuable player (MVP).