Schools day – An annual Schools Day – that has been a 30 year long tradition – is organised by the Madagascar Rugby Union and managed by, among others, Berthin Rafalimanana, RA Regional Development Officer. However for the first time in 26 of these years he was unable to participate as he was conducting training in Mauritius. His daughter, now a Maki National Team player, assisted Daniel Blondy, the Indian Ocean Islands Association Chairman in overseeing the smooth running of the event.

For many years, rugby has been at the heart of this Schools Day. Students start playing rugby in their first year of secondary school. Conditions are sometimes out of date as some schools don’t have rugby fields and young players need to learn the game on clay fields.

This is a wonderful opportunity for children to have fun while learning and practicing and allows many people who have a passion for sport to get together. Many students discover for the first time a passion for the oval ball !

There were 2 new U16 Girls teams with new coaches ; 5 junior players, 3 new referees who now officiate internationally, 20 World Rugby certified Educators and 6 members of the Malagasy Rugby Union attended this event.

Every year, both former and current National Players also attend to show an example and share with the children their experience either by playing or refereeing.

• 2 new girls team (U16)
• new coaches
• 5 junior players
• 3 new referees who are now international
• 20 educator
• 6 members of the Malagasy Rugby

Every years, many Makis players, former or current are invited to share with the children. They can then play or ref showing the example.

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