29-05-2025
Having an absolutely Rippa time with rugby
More than 1000 year 3-8 children from 19 schools played through sunshine and downpours in last week's District Rippa Rugby Tournament at Balclutha showgrounds, in their choice of competitive or non-competitive grades.
"The festival has been running since 2007 with Tiny Carruthers ... I've been involved since I started in this role in 2018," Sport Clutha regional co- ordinator Craig Gordon said.
"It's grown and evolved [and] expanded to use all available fields."
"This year marked the first enabler session, led by Zoe Tully [Halberg], Paris Skipper [Parafed] and Chris Moffitt [Special Olympics] ... four children attended ... one didn't want to go home, another who isn't known for smiling was absolutely beaming, and his teacher aide mentioned she had never seen him so active ... it clearly meant the world to them [and] it will only grow from here.
"One of the most rewarding things is seeing past participants returning ... as referees [and] to help coach and support their former schools.
Mr Gordon wanted to give a big thanks to the wider community that supported the event.
"To the parents who volunteer their time, the schools who continue to support the event despite increasing travel costs and especially to South Otago High School, without whom the festival couldn't happen."
