As part of I AM’s mission to celebrate the autistic community we are expanding our popular ’10 questions with…’ series to highlight disability sport providers or clubs or individuals who have made their mark in sport in and around Manchester. In our second Sporting Life interview, we catch up with Mike Carr, who runs mixed ability rugby sessions.
1. Who are the rugby sessions aimed at?
It is a mixed ability rugby session. It is aimed at children from the age of 10 up to young adults who might not be able to join in regular rugby training or matches. Most of our players have some form of learning disability, but we also encourage siblings to take part which means it becomes a real family activity. There are also non-disabled players who are a very welcome part of the group and help run the sessions. The aim is for the players to have fun, exercise and learn the basics of rugby – but importantly it is to bring them into the community of rugby and create a safe place for friendships to flourish. It is non-contact, but we do play games of tag-rugby.
2. Where do the rugby sessions take place?
The sessions take place at Bowdon Rugby Club, Clay Lane, Timperley WA15 7AF.
We train outside on grass pitches.
3. What time are the sessions?
10-11 am every Saturday.
We will be running the sessions up to mid-July, and then beginning again the first week of September.
The club is quiet on a Saturday morning with full Mini & Junior sessions taking place on a Sunday.
4. Is there onsite parking?
There is extensive parking in the rugby club car park.
5. How much do the sessions cost?
There is no cost – but next season we will be encouraging players to become social members of the club.
6. How do you book?
Initial contact is to be made to Mike Carr at mixedabilityrugby@bowdonrufc.com
After that, a WhatsApp group will keep parents informed of sessions etc.
7. Who coaches the sessions?
The sessions are run by Mike Carr.
We also encourage some of the younger members of the club to attend sessions and help with the training and organisation.
8. What experience do you have?
Mike is a former player at Bowdon Rugby Club and an experienced rugby coach. His son Charlie has autism and attends the sessions along with his daughter Alice.
9. Why should someone give the rugby sessions a go?
Friendship, fun and fitness. The sessions were set up to give the chance for players to become part of the rugby community – especially at a friendly and inclusive club like Bowdon. It is a relaxed, safe environment where everyone can go at their own pace and be themselves.
There are no great aims for the sessions apart from fresh air, fun and friendship.
10. Is there a cafe or a place to eat?
The clubhouse is open for the players and families to get hot and cold drinks and snacks.
After every session we all sit down for free drinks and crisps.
You can find out more about mixed ability rugby sessions by contacting Mike Carr at mixedabilityrugby@bowdonrufc.com
If you are a sporting provider or someone who have made their mark in sport and are interested in taking part in a Sporting Life interview, please drop us an email at enquiries@i-am-autism.org.uk
