FOLLOWING the success of last year's Gazette sponsored Wiltshire Rugby Skills Week, the 2004 event is already being prepared.

Now in its ninth year, the Wiltshire Rugby Skills Week will be held at the Chippenham Rugby Club, Allington Field, Chippenham.

Skills Week 2004 will take place during the week beginning August 9 until August 13 providing children in the Dorset and Wiltshire area with intensive coaching in the skills required for the game of rugby.

Organisers believe the event is a perfect way to prepare children for the approaching season.

Children aged between eight and 14 years can enjoy lessons by experienced coaches recognised by the Home Unions National Youth Development organisation.

The feedback from over one hundred children who attended last year's event has ensured that the same coaching team will continue to bring on the the players of the future.

The healthy diet provided by the catering team will enhance the training experience of children taking part.

Over the five days of Skills Week 2004, a structured timetable will cater for the wide range of experience of the children attending. The coaches take great pride in positioning each child within a programme appropriate to both age and ability.

The coaching sessions will cover all aspects of the game.

They will include preparation for the game, the value of warming up and stretching, diet, game plans, essentials skills and drills and work on the importance of team drills and play.

Other sessions include the recently introduced speed, agility and quickness exercise.

Children will also learn how to improve their personal fitness and understand the value of commitment.

Unfortunately, demand for this year's event has led to a waiting list, but the organisers can offer an option to be included in the spring mail-shot for Skills Week 2005.

Through the Gazette's sponsorship the £80 fee will again include a rugby ball for each child, various skills week branded items and specially prepared, healthy option meals.

Anyone interested in this year's or future Skills Week events should contact Chippenham Rugby Football Club on (01249) 446997.