Now in its second year, the Scripture Union Rugby Union Camp is on a roll.
Forty-four boys from Year 5 to 8 and over had the time of their lives, honing their footy skills and living a vibrant holiday adventure.
One of the special extras this year was the presence of Brad Thorn who has played for both Australia and NZ and is currently head coach of Queensland Reds.
“I heard about the camp from the minister at my church in Brisbane,” Thorn said. “They asked me for a video. I said, ‘I think I can do better than that.’
“A rugby camp and it’s Christian! That’s my two big loves rolled into one. So I came down from Brisbane with my three sons and it’s been great.
“I’ve spoken at churches, but I haven’t seen anything like this before. There’s a lovely balance of having a good time on the field and sharing my faith in Jesus and what He’s done for me.”
The boys think so too. Year 9 student, Will Bloomfield couldn’t wait to get his application in again this year. “I not only learn about rugby, but about God and what He teaches us.
“It’s really refreshing knowing there’s others who believe and we can talk naturally about it.”
Farrer student, Fergus Frater agrees. “Last year we had good skills training and practice. This year is more advanced and I get to go further. It’s good to discuss Bible things with peers, but with leaders there to explain.”
Camp director Joe Goldsworthy adds another gem from history. “The game was originally devised as a way of encouraging ‘muscular Christianity’. There was a concern that Christian men were getting flabby. Rugby was the game to ‘promote Christian manliness and rescue Christians from sloth’.”