Round 4 delivered in spades, lovely sunshine and great rugby.  Can we get the same for the next 8 weeks, let’s hope so, atleast tomorrow and Sunday are looking amazing,

Most of our Mini teams travelled up the highway to visit the Wahroonga Tigers at Cliff Oval which for some meant some early starts but the hot coffee and warm sunshine made the trip worth it.  From all reports the Minis from tare showing some impressive skills making for some amazing rugby - good work mini Pirates, doing us all proud.

Our Junior teams have gone through a re grading before the beginning of round four, with some new teams entering each division and some departing, the season is heating up.  

Our rostering of people either in the Canteen or on the BBQ continues to cause some dramas.   The new canteen is a facility we are lucky to have but it takes time, effort and commitment from a number of people to make it work.  If you have put your hand up to help or you have offered to help, please do not wait to be asked on a Saturday or Sunday just go over and takeover.  We are seeing too many parents miss watching their own child whilst waiting for the next shift.  It doe not take much of your time but it does significantly reduce the workload of a few when we all contribute.

We have been extremely fortunate to have the services of Beth Vida who has for two years, purchased and delivered the necessary supplies each Friday for Saturdays game and then re stock for Sunday.   Beth is no longer able to continue to dedicate the hours she has so we are on the look out for a volunteer who is able to manage the canteen for us.

This is a role that a newly retired rugby parent may enjoy or a not so recently retired grandparent or anyone in between.  

We have said this before but as a community club we rely on the support of our community to provide the best opportunities for our kids.  If you or anyone you know might be interested please reach out to either Andrew Chapman or Andrew Bunting to discuss what might be involved.

Good luck Pirates 🏴‍☠️

NEEDED - Referees

Rugby referees are in short supply but are essential if we want to continue having junior sport for our kids to play.

Rugby referees play a crucial role in junior sports for several reasons. Firstly, they ensure safety by enforcing the rules and penalizing dangerous play, protecting young players from potential injuries. Secondly, referees teach fair play and sportsmanship, instilling values of respect, integrity, and discipline in young athletes. Referees also provide valuable feedback, helping players understand the rules and improve their skills. Finally, they promote the spirit of the game, fostering an environment where teamwork, strategy, and decision-making are valued. Referees are essential in cultivating a positive and enjoyable experience for junior athletes.

The shortage has been recognised by Sydney Junior Rugby Union and they are incentivising clubs to assist in the development of a new wave of referees.

To be involved and start the referring journey please have a look at the available courses being offered by NSW Rugby.  There are a number of upcoming options, this is not just an option for high school kids but also a great way for parents to learn and understand the laws and play a part in the development of our young Pirates (rather than screaming the wrong laws from the sidelines😉).

We cannot whinge about the quality of the referees we see without being prepared to blow the whistle ourselves.

Any costs associated with doing courses can be reimbursed by the Pirates.  For any younger Pirates or siblings of Pirates who like the idea of being in charge please reach out so we can discuss options with you.  Qualified referees in charge of Junior games wiil be reimbursed for your time.  

SALE

Our preference is that all purchases are made online and then collected from the canteen, typically items will be available to collect the following weekend.