MORE than 100 school kids across Jimboomba and the Scenic Rim are set to get a taste of rugby league.
The Jimboomba 9s Rugby League Gala Day is set to be held at the Jimboomba Thunder Rugby League Club on Friday, March 9.
The event is open to all registered schools in the area, with between 100 and 200 kids under 12 expected to attend.
South east Queensland NRL game development officer Rushdi Dai said this would enable a variety of students to discover a love and possible commitment to rugby league.
“Some kids will try this out for the first time and will get to try a new sport, make friends and gain a bit of confidence,” he said.
“That’s why we are doing this at the start of the year because it coincides with junior registration and sign-ons. If kids do it and like it they might sign on with the Jimboomba Thunder and rugby league.
“You don’t know unless you give it a go.”
Unlike the typical 13 players per side format, there will be an array of nine player teams facing off in a fun environment.
Jimboomba Thunder Rugby League club president Neil Richards said the gala would promote sporting outdoor club and showcase club facilities.
“It is a good way for the community to see our facilities and what we are working with,” he said.
“Lots of school football kids don’t play for a club so it is good for us to introduce those kids to the grounds.
“The season does not start until April 20 and we are signing kids on every day.”
Dai said the gala was tailored to suit a wide range of abilities, and safety would be the highest priority.
“Some kids can be fearful of contact but it is not like what you see on TV, you play with safer league rules which are put in place to keep kids safe,” he said.
The event will take place during school hours from 10am to 2pm.