This morning marks the start of BCE students across 60 schools putting down their books and putting on their footy boots as they kick start the annual Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) Primary School Rugby 7’s series of carnivals.
The 2022 competition is expected to be bigger and better than ever, with 1000 students ready and rearing to play across four regions from 8 June to 13 July, with Brisbane West region taking to the field today at the Kenmore Rugby Union Club, with around 350 students competing across four divisions – Girls & Boys Under 10 and Girls & Boys 11 / 12 years old.
With the carnival’s popularity growing, a fourth location was added to this year’s event and games are now hosted in Brisbane North, South and West, as well as the Gold Coast.
BCE School Operations and Programs Lead, Greg Casey, said the carnival encourages participation in professional sporting experiences for primary-aged children in Catholic schools.
“Over the years we’ve even seen Catholic school students go on to play in the Wallabies team and who knows, these experiences may spark the beginning of another journey to the gold jumper," he said.
Greg added that the carnival is not just about rugby union.
“Not only is it a great way for BCE students to get together and have some fun with their friends, but the event also promotes being active, healthy growth and development, team skills and our students’ overall emotional wellbeing,” he said.
“Our students and schools connect with others from across our system to access an experience of sport and wellbeing which is unique to BCE schools.
“Every year they show off their amazing spirit in our community of schools.
“The carnivals have also been great community builders as we’ve had large numbers of parents and grandparents come along to cheer their children on.
“Over the past few years students have missed out on so much due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and these carnivals have provided them the opportunity to come out and wear their school colours with pride and show off their talents.
“I’d like to thank Queensland Rugby Union (QRU) for their ongoing support of our schools and these competitions again this year.
“The tremendous support from their State Development Manager as well as their Regional Rugby Managers has meant that we can hold these days which are focussed on maximum participation, plus skill, and team building, all in a great spirit that typifies the Rugby Union family.
“QRU have qualified referees and First Aid staff on hand to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the children as well, which is really important.”
