![IMG-20240908-WA0002.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmetwM5sdSMtUGSsFb5Ncz12qZ9h6HJXSeLEKNA8SEpqLP/IMG-20240908-WA0002.jpg) Coaching my 8-year-old son’s rugby team has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only does it allow me to give back to the local club I grew up playing for, but it also lets me share my love for the game with the next generation. Coaching the under-9 age group feels like coming full circle—from a boy playing for this very team, to a senior player, and eventually turning professional. Now, I’m helping my son and his teammates experience the same lessons and joys I did, both on and off the field. **Team Sports: More Than Just Physical Fitness** Rugby, like any team sport, offers more than just physical fitness. It fosters emotional growth and teaches invaluable life lessons. The kids learn the importance of teamwork, discipline, and resilience. These are qualities that extend far beyond the rugby pitch. By training together, they start to understand the value of supporting each other, working hard, and pushing through challenges. It's amazing to see how these small moments—whether it’s nailing a pass or tackling an opponent—start to build their confidence and character. ![IMG-20240908-WA0003.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmPx8HjyxBs3Ar4JLjJdfp72kBxusp9CXTGVbEDnK2V9jf/IMG-20240908-WA0003.jpg) **Building Character, Not Just Winners** I’ve never been a believer in participation trophies. In my eyes, sports should always be competitive. You play to win, but rugby teaches us that you won’t always come out on top. Learning how to handle defeat with grace is just as important as celebrating a victory. It builds resilience, understanding, and humility. These are life skills the kids will carry with them long after their rugby careers are over. While I want to see the team succeed, what matters most is helping them grow into well-rounded individuals. Rugby is a sport that demands respect, teamwork, and perseverance. I see this in my son and his teammates as they develop—learning not just the technical skills of the game but how to manage emotions, celebrate wins, and bounce back from losses. ![IMG-20240901-WA0050.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmaBcTen6CXw2hk823gNKfU7w1GwaCQv46eFQXTQo5ub6X/IMG-20240901-WA0050.jpg) Coaching has allowed me to be part of that process, and I’m proud to contribute to the local community and pass down the values that rugby taught me. ![Screenshot_20240607_220601_Chrome.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmNvFkw4GaqZmEzhFgTP5AyLoJrcT2b7diFeUejbLPMZPB/Screenshot_20240607_220601_Chrome.jpg) ![Screenshot_20220214-214651_Chrome.jpg](https://images.hive.blog/DQmZP2jC4LH2SBXTKPcY2vSYmwpzBwqm3sSFRMmqYUZEvuQ/Screenshot_20220214-214651_Chrome.jpg) 40+yr old, trying to shift a few pounds and sharing his efforsts on the blockchain. Come find me on [STRAVA](https://www.strava.com/athletes/20624817) or actifit, and we can keep each other motivated . ![Screenshot_20240813_202407_Chrome.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmZBMH9pp7n1JrKcVjnMybTyGJRSsZqfXxGmvLXGjpCGHv/Screenshot_20240813_202407_Chrome.jpg) Proud member of #teamuk. Teamuk is a tag for all UK residents, ex-pats or anyone currently staying here to use and get a daily upvote from the community. While the community actively encourages users of the platform to post and use the tag, remember that it is for UK members only. Come join the community over on the discord channel- [HERE](https://discord.gg/D2zBEV4R)

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