Longton Rugby Mini-Juniors, located in Stoke-on-Trent, is a vibrant and inclusive rugby club that offers children aged 4 and above the opportunity to learn and play rugby. The club emphasises the values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline, and sportsmanship, using rugby as a vehicle to instil these values in young players.
They provide free taster training sessions for children interested in joining the club at any time during their season, which runs from early August to late May. With around 300 children of varying ability levels, the club welcomes new faces to their extensive Trentham Fields location. The section is supported by a dedicated coaching and committee set-up, with a strong focus on creating a positive and supportive environment for all players.
Longton Rugby Mini-Juniors has been recognised and awarded RFU Whole Club Accreditation and Sport England Clubmark by the Rugby Football Union (RFU). The club also maintains strong policies for child protection and safety, ensuring the well-being of all participants. All volunteers undergo necessary checks and training to fulfil their roles effectively. In alignment with the RFU's player safety and well-being programme, the club adheres to Rugby Safe guidelines.
Training sessions take place on Sundays and Wednesdays, catering to different age groups ranging from Under 6's to Under 16's, as well as girls' teams. Anyone interested can attend the club's sessions or contact them via email for more information. The club is also actively involved in recruitment efforts, encouraging the spreading of the word through posters and videos in schools, shops, and newsletters.
Longton Rugby Mini-Juniors aims to provide a warm and welcoming environment for children to develop their rugby skills while fostering values that extend beyond the sport.