The new Cape Byron Crusaders junior rugby union football club is surging on the back of plenty of keen players and parents.
Already in round four of its foundation year, the Crusaders have players for U/7 and U/9 teams and expect to add another two older groups next year, with the long-term aim of being able to cater to teenagers as well.
The club was founded by parents ‘who are focused on creating buoyant, vibrant, sporty opportunities for young people,’ co-founder Mathew Simpson said.
There hasn’t been a continuous offering for young people to play rugby in Byron for quite some time, which has meant players have had to travel farther to play.
The club is also getting support from the Byron Bay Rugby Club, which is looking forward to having some home-grown talent join their sides in the future.
The club is focused on providing young people with opportunities to stay fit and become part of a wider community on a regular basis.
The club aims to provide great fun and rewarding experiences for children.
Parents are also encouraged to become involved and to not just watch from the sidelines.
‘We want parents to come down and take part in the sport with the children, to use training days as a real opportunity to spend time with their children to make it a really rewarding experience for both of them,’ he said.
The Crusaders play at home this Friday from 5.30pm, and training is on Monday afternoons. All welcome.