Future Vodafone Warriors and Kiwi Ferns were out in force when they participated in the Vodafone Warriors’ April footy clinic programme at Mount Smart Stadium.
The kids were joined by Vodafone Warriors players Junior Pauga, Ofahiki Ogden and Matt Allwood plus Kiwi Ferns Teuila Fotu-Moala and Langi Veainu and club ambassadors Jerome Ropati and Georgia Hale.
This year the footy clinics have been restructured with each one themed around what it’s like to be playing in an NRL season as an ultimate Vodafone Warrior.
The first footy clinic – ‘Preseason’ – included fitness testing, the second is themed ‘Midseason’ and the final clinic – ‘Grand Final’ – will be held in the year’s last set of school holidays.
This year’s programme aims to build on skills learnt from the previous clinic where participants will walk away with stronger football knowledge they can apply elsewhere on or off the field.
The April clinic brought together almost 50 boys and girls who experienced ‘A day in the life of a Vodafone Warrior’ with preseason preparation the focus as they were put through fitness testing.
On the first day of the programme, the children were greeted with a Hubbards breakfast Station and a chance to mingle with others before they were officially welcomed by club Ropati and Hale.
The participants were given a club tour of the stadium including a look at the gym and changing sheds before having lunch in the stands.
The day ended with a match controlled by Auckland Rugby League referees and coached by Pauga, Ogden and Allwood.
Similar activities took place on the second day but with a special treat when the kids spent their morning tea break watching a Vodafone Warriors field session. After training they met the team to grab photos and autographs.
To end the clinic all participants were given a prize pack and awarded certificates at a prizegiving where three MVPs were announced.
Themed ‘Midseason’, the next clinic will be held in the July school holidays on Wednesday, July, 12-Thursday, July 13 for kids aged 10-13 years old and Wednesday, July, 19-Thursday, July 20 for those aged 7-10 years old.
Those involved in the April footy clinic had a blast so make sure you register now for the July footy clinic. It’s not too late.
REGISTER HERE NOW FOR JULY FOOTY CLINIC
