Rugby in Ghana
Although Rugby is already played in Ghana and some club teams exist, there is a lack of structure and funding at the grass-roots level. However, the passion for Ghanaian sport spreads into Rugby and there are many young players who want the chance to develop their skills. Through this rugby coaching placement, you can experience the African game while making a positive difference to the advancement of Ghana’s next up-and-coming sport.

Your Rugby Volunteer Placement
The project will see volunteers work in two areas. The first is at the Accra Rugby Club (ARC), and the second is in the surrounding schools. Many Ghanaian school children are not familiar with Rugby. However, as with most sports, the children are always keen to try new sports, especially when they have the opportunity to play and learn in a structured environment. By coaching the game and running training in the capital's schools, you will soon identify the committed and talented players. It is these players that the ARC is keen to take into their club and develop to the next level. In addition to coaching, volunteers will have the chance to play alongside the senior players at the ARC. This is a unique chance to build cultural friendships and experience the strength of the West African game firsthand.

Your Rugby Coaching Role
As a rugby volunteer, you will start by working in schools and introducing the basics of the game for 12-16 year olds. This will be largely during PE lessons but you will also be encouraged to create after school clubs for the keener players. You will need a good understanding of how to teach the game because many of the children will have never seen it played and will therefore have very little, if any, grasp of the rules. However, with dedication and perseverance, the children are sure to pick it up and prove to be solid players.

The other key part of the project will be scouting for the most promising players. You will able to work with them in smaller groups and put them forward to train at the ARC. Depending on your ability, you will then be able to work with the ARC to push aspiring players to the peak of their game, focusing on the more technical aspects of the game, such as scrummages, mauls and kicking. The ARC runs during the week but, at weekends, the players may be introduced to the competitive side of the sport through interclub matches. Depending on the time of year, you may also have the opportunity to join the senior club players at the ARC. This will give you the chance to train yourself and potentially take part in club matches. This will also give you a great insight into the social life that surrounds sport through many post match celebrations!

Gap Year Rugby in Ghana
A gap year in Ghana allows you to combine a rugby gap year in Ghana with exciting gap year travel in Ghana. You will also meet lots of other gap year volunteers in Ghana, making your time in Ghana a truly memorable gap year experience.