A leading rugby tactician, Coach Matthias David has given a bold promise that he will continue embarking on development efforts for the sport in Rivers State and thanked the government for giving him adequate support, Sports247 reports.
David’s pledge came in the wake of the successful organization of a youth development programme he organized in conjunction with Rivers State Rugby Association, involving teams from four local government areas.
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The initiative, which was tagged U-15/U-19 Inter-Local Government Rugby Sevens Tournament, involved games for both boys and girls, with the participation of teams from Ogu-Bolo, Akuku-Toru, Port Harcourt City LGA and Opobo-Nkoro.
Also in attendance was a representative of Rivers State Director of Sports, Mr. Samuel John Bull, and chairman of Akuku-Toru Sports Committee, Coach Edward Briggs, who applauded the display of skill, determination, tackle and touchdowns.
Akuku-Toru U15 boys defeated Ogu-Bolo RFC 10-5 in the opening match of the day and set a thrilling tempo for the competition, while PHALGA RFC got a huge 10-0 victory over the female squad of Akuku-Toru RFC in the U19 girls’ category.
To cap the day’s activities, Akuku-Toru completed a double over Ogu/Bolo with a dominant 15-0 triumph in the U15 girls’ final, while Opobo-Nkoro RFC defeated PHALGA RFC 30-5 in the U19 boys’ ultimate game of the competition.
Speaking at the end of the competition, David expressed appreciation to officials of Rivers State government for their support and commended them for recognising his efforts, alongside the commitment of other rugby stakeholders in the state.
The convener added, “I am delighted that this competition has become a reality, and we hope to build on this momentum to make it a major feature of our rugby development activities in Rivers State.
“I cannot thank the Director of Sports enough. Sending a representative shows that rugby is recognised in Rivers State. Them also providing transportation support for the players is highly commendable.”
