Four Worcester schools have signed-up to combine tag rugby with healthy lifestyle education thanks to a scheme backed by City Councillor Richard Udall.
The St Johns rugby scheme will see Warriors working with Pitmaston Primary, Dines Green Primary, Oldbury Park and St Clement's Church of England schools to help children develop an array of skills.
Children will learn the importance of lifestyle choices and the dangers of tobacco, drink and drugs, before taking to the rugby pitch to develop their teamwork and communication skills through tag rugby.
Worcester Valkyries players Lauren Vipond and Benny Williams visited Dines Green School on Monday to help launch the scheme alongside Warriors Education Manager Dave Rogers and Community Education Officer Laura Bolon.
Rogers said: “We’re extremely grateful to Councillor Udall for supporting the work of Warriors Community Foundation and allowing us to deliver this project in Dines Green and St Johns.
“It has allowed 250 children in the area to play rugby and meet some fantastic role models from the Valkyries.”
Councillor Udall said: “I’m a big rugby and Warriors fan and understand how the sport can benefit people. So I want to see as many people as possible in this area have the chance to enjoy it as much as I do.
“I’m delighted to be involved with this scheme and I am very proud of all the work the Warriors Community Foundation is doing.
“There are many positives lessons sport can teach people and I am sure the children will be inspired by seeing the Warriors staff and the Worcester Valkyries players.”
Williams added: “My trip to Dines Green Primary showed me just how impactful sport can be for children.
“These sorts of initiatives clearly help children with their personal development, which is fantastic. To see the children having so much fun as well is very humbling.”