The USQRA and its High
Performance Training Program are excited to announce a Rugby
Festival to be held at the Lakeshore
Foundation in Birmingham, Alabama. This
invitational event will take place on December
12-15, 2002 and is
open
to a limited number of USQRA athletes who are interested in learning more
about the High Performance Training Program.
Complete details on the Rugby Festival are listed below:
What
The Rugby Festival is designed to introduce USQRA athletes to
the High Performance Training Program and
elite level rugby. Headed up by Team USA Coach, Kevin Orr,
the weekend will operate much like a typical HPTP training camp. Those
invited will receive quality instruction from some
of the nation’s best wheelchair rugby coaches and athletes, most with
years of international experience. Beginning
on Friday morning and concluding on Sunday afternoon, those in attendance
can expect an intense weekend full of quality structured rugby.
Who
This event will be made available to approximately 15 USQRA
athletes who are not currently part of the High Performance
Training Program.
How
While this is an invitational event, any USQRA athlete that is
interested in attending is encouraged to submit their name for
consideration. You will need to be in good shape and have a strong
understanding of the sport, as well as a desire to be part of the High
Performance Training Program in the future. If you would like to apply
you’ll need to send an email with your name, age, contact information,
classification and a brief history of your rugby experience to
wgumbert@hotmail.com. Send faxes to (512) 847-2173.
Cost
Those invited to attend must pay a $250 registration fee and
provide their own transportation to Birmingham. Your registration fee
will cover ground transportation, 3-nights lodging, all meals served
during scheduled gym time, detailed instruction and scrimmage
opportunities and a shirt. Full payment made payable to USA Wheelchair
Rugby will be required prior to arrival.
Deadlines
Interested athletes must submit a brief history of your rugby
experience by October 6, 2002 to Wendy Gumbert at
wgumbert@hotmail.com or by fax at (512) 847-2173. Histories should
include your name, age, full contact information, team name and your
classification. The coaching staff will review all applications and
notify those selected by October 21st.
NOTE
The High Performance Training Program will run a developmental
team at the Demolition Derby on January 31-February 2nd in Birmingham.
Team members will be selected from those athletes attending the Rugby
Festival who have an interest in playing at the Demolition Derby.
Transportation costs and similar registration fees will apply.
RAC’s
All Regional Assistant Commissioners are asked to compile a list of
the athletes in their area that would be suitable for this event. Please
consult with each coach and/or team in your region before submitting your
recommendations to Wendy Gumbert. You prompt attention to this matter
will be appreciated.
Important
The Rugby Festival is not a tryout or qualifier for the High
Performance Training Program. However, the experience gained by attending
this event could assist you in preparing for the 2004-2008 program.
Questions
If you have questions regarding the Rugby Festival or the High
Performance Training Program you can contact Wendy Gumbert at
wgumbert@hotmail.com or by calling (512) 847-0445.
