GRFU intensifying youth rugby development drive – Gonsalves

The Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) is continuing its efforts to strengthen the sport at the grassroots level, with a renewed focus on youth development and school-based participation programmes.
Speaking on the side-lines of a recent event, GRFU President Ryan Gonsalves said the union is building on the success of its Easter “Get Into Rugby” camp and has already attracted approximately 100 young participants through its outreach initiatives.

According to Gonsalves, the Federation is working closely with schools as part of its “Get Into Rugby” programme, with several youth development officers and coaches playing key roles in the initiative.
“We have about 100 students onboard easily,” Gonsalves said, noting that youth development officers Carrin Carter, Tricia Munroe and several other former players have joined the effort to help rebuild and grow the sport.
He added that the union currently has three coaches actively involved in the programme and is identifying schools where rugby can be introduced and developed. Gonsalves acknowledged that rugby remains a relatively small sport in Guyana but said the federation is taking a gradual approach to expansion.
“We are identifying different schools and working. Rugby is a small sport, so we can only work in small areas, and we can build as we go,” he explained.
The GRFU President also revealed plans to launch schools’ tag rugby competitions within the next month or two. However, he noted that ongoing poor weather conditions and logistical preparations have delayed the immediate rollout of the programme.
Despite those challenges, Gonsalves expressed optimism about the future of youth rugby in Guyana and said the Federation remains committed to increasing opportunities for young players at both the school and club levels.
He said the ultimate goal is to see more youths actively participating in rugby, helping to create a stronger foundation for the sport’s long-term development across the country.