As restrictions ease and community sport returns, kids can again have fun and learn new football skills these school holidays through non-contact League Stars clinics.
Community rugby league has started in WA, South Australia and the Northern Territory, while training is underway in New South Wales and Queensland ahead of their competition kick-offs in the coming weeks.
For primary school-aged boys and girls wanting to improve their skills, meet new friends and enjoy being outside again, League Stars is billed as "the perfect introduction to rugby league".
Stringent health processes will be in place to ensure everyone's safety. Registrations for NSW and Queensland clinics are now open at www.playrugbyleague.com/clinics.
"It's great that community sport is starting to return in a safe way across the country and we're excited to be supporting kids getting back outdoors and alongside their friends safely through our League Stars School Holiday programs," said Luke Ellis, the NRL's head of football – participation, pathways and game development.
"We've worked extremely hard to ensure that our clinics will be fun for everyone, whilst being delivered in a COVIDsafe environment."
Ellis hopes the school holiday clinics inspire participants to register with their local community rugby league clubs.
"Our League Stars program is non-tackle and focussed on the development of skills like passing, catching, kicking and evasion – there’s a place for all kids to find their strength and we encourage parents to find their nearest clinic and get them involved.
"Getting kids to join community rugby league clubs is an important outcome and we hope that our participants enjoy the clinics and look towards our clubs for further involvement in rugby league."
Several NRL clubs across NSW and QLD are partnering on the clinics, creating a link for kids to some of their favourite teams.
Volunteer education and training programs commenced last weekend to support clubs in their return to community rugby league.
To find a community rugby league club, head to www.playrugbyleague.com.