IRFU’s tag rugby programme to help smaller clubs bring in the business

CLUBS nationwide are to benefit financially from the IRFU’s TAG Rugby Programme next year.

In another gesture by the IRFU top brass to appease claims by clubs that they are suffering as a direct result of professionalism, the new TAGprogramme will see the union working with each club that is selected as a venue in a profit-sharing arrangement, such as the use of its bar and restaurant facilities.

Tag rugby has enjoyed unprecedented growth over the last five years — particularly amongst company and office staff — with over 11,500 participating in venues such as Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Cork, Waterford, Sligo and Belfast last year.

The growth of tag rugby has been successful in spreading the popularity of the game of rugby during a traditionally quiet time of the year for clubs.

Its non-contact nature and social aspect have made it accessible to both men and women in the graded levels.

This will be the only official IRFU Tag Rugby Programme in Ireland and registration of teams will commence in January 2007, with the leagues running from May to August.

The IRFU TAG venues for this season will be confirmed by mid December.

Commenting on the announcement, Kevin Potts, IRFU Domestic Game Manager said: “Tag Rugby is an important part of the recreational game during the summer months, in the new segment of leisure rugby that has developed over the last five years. TAG has introduced huge numbers to rugby, many of which may never have had any connection to the game.”

“The new IRFU TAG Rugby Programme will have a similar format to other TAG leagues run in recent years with graded structures allowing each team to register at the level of competition they feel suits them. The added incentive to each of the venue clubs is to make it as successful as possible, allowing them to benefit financially.”

lAll teams looking to register for IRFU Tag Rugby 2007 should contact the IRFU at on [e-mail].