THE Gazette & Herald’s Rugby SkillsWeek was back for its 15th year last week, with an international flavour.

Almost 70 boys and girls from the local area flocked to Chippenham Rugby Club to take part in training sessions and receive advice and coaching on skills and nutrition.

Among the youngsters taking part were nine German players from Hannover, including 2009 player of the year Daniel Koch, a Germany U16 international who attended his first SkillsWeek last year following an introduction to the club as part of an U14 touring side in 2008.

“It was great to have David back this year and even better that he brought some of his mates with him,” said SkillsWeek manager and Chippenham youth coach Steve Whitehead.

“His skill levels had really improved and if he played in this country, he’d definitely be a county player and he’d probably be pushing for a district place. Numbers were down a little bit this year but that meant that you could work more closely with individuals and make sure that you got round to everyone.

“The behaviour from everyone that took part was exemplary and the standard of player this year was really good.

“We had some people that were new to rugby and wanted to give it a try and it’s always great to introduce youngsters to the sport.”

Training sessions were run in three age categories, and included tag, touch and, for the older players, full contact rugby.

There were also a series of relay races, with the older children encouraged to develop their leadership skills by mentoring their younger team mates.

Prize winners on the day were Jack Hurring in the senior section, intermediates Dan Jones and David Comport and novices Josh Lever and Joel Davis.

“We strike while the iron’s hot by getting the kids back out on to the pitch and it’s a really good way for us to kick-start pre-season for local rugby,” said Whitehead.