TCRT funds the new Colin Cooper Rugby Development Programme in Taranaki

[Excerpt from Stuff, 3 Feb 2020]

A community rugby programme inspired by former Taranaki, Hurricanes and Chiefs coach Colin Cooper will be introduced in Taranaki before the start of the season.

Taranaki Rugby and the eight premier clubs will employ a club rugby development officer part of the 'Colin Cooper Rugby Development Programme'. The new additions into the clubs will work throughout all levels including surrounding schools in the area, funded by the Taranaki Community Rugby Trust.

The appointments mean clubs will gain a significant boost in resourcing as Taranaki Rugby attempts to increase participation across all levels of the game and inspire the next generation of female and male players.

Community rugby manager Cole Brown said the direction is to deliver a quality experience for all players and coaches.

"Our focus is on supporting grassroots rugby and delivering quality experiences to our players, coaches, volunteers, schools and clubs."

"This programme is innovative and the first of its kind and drawing national attention. We believe that rugby is a vehicle for delivering all the health benefits of being active and involved in team sports to our community. This programme is about more than rugby it encompasses mental health and wellbeing and inspiring an active community," Brown said.

Read the full article here - https://www.stuff.co.nz/taranaki-daily-news/sport/119178891/community-programme-to-be-introduced--inspired-by-cooper