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Irish rugby stars have provided their support for the Spirit of Rugby programme's first promotional initiative by reminding those on the sidelines of children's matches to remember that kids play for fun and to 'let them play'.
The Spirit of Rugby programme, which was launched by the IRFU yesterday, is a series of practical educational programmes that embody and promote the core values of the game - Respect, Inclusivity, Integrity, Fun and Excellence.
Throughout September, Spirit Officers will now host workshops on the role of a Club Welfare Officer, where each club will receive a sideline sign to remind those attending matches that children are not pro-players and are playing for fun, that coaches and referees are volunteers and that players are doing their best, and deserve their support and encouragement.
The promotional video supporting the programme features Ireland players reminds those supporting and coaching children's games to 'let them play' and to remember that 'it is okay to make mistakes'.
The workshops get underway tonight, and continue throughout September at the following locations:
Luke Murphy (Connacht)
Stephen Gore (Leinster)
Emily O'Leary (Munster)
Kerry Spence (Ulster)