IT was a rare Sunday off for parents and players from Dorchester Rugby Club’s Junior Section, as 29 coaches from the club gathered for an education session.

Newly-appointed community coach for Dorset, Chris Burton, got the morning started with a presentation about the new coach licensing scheme which the RFU are implementing in 2013.

This is an important initiative and will ensure all coaches are kept up to date with coaching skills and best practice.

The second session was taken by the chairman of Dorset & Wilts, selector Gordon Harding, who explained the structure and purpose behind the selection process.

This provoked some interesting questions on possible improvements and in particular, how to improve the standards of intermediate players.

After moving outside, the coaches were divided into groups of four, with each group having to present and take two simple drills, with the other members the willing participants.

This, in essence, was a best practice session and everyone contributed in discussing how the drills could be improved and progressed.

The final session was a discussion on the “The Winning Ethos” which again prompted some lively opinions.

Dorchester’s coaching co-ordinator Andy Whale was delighted with the attendance and outcome of the morning’s activities.

He said: “We are committed to the support and development of our coaches as this is fundamental to ensuring all our players are able to play to their full potential while enjoying themselves.”

Anyone interested in becoming involved in rugby, be it playing, coaching, refereeing or any other role can visit dorchester-rfc.co.uk or contact Victoria Peel on 07545 280994.