More than 2000 Year 2 to Year 8 primary school pupils will be taking part in Bay of Plenty Rugby Union's Rippa Rugby programme this year.

Monday marked the start of the five Rippa Rugby modules which are being run across the Western Bay and are being sponsored by the Tauranga Energy Consumer Trust.

This term sees the inclusion of a new Te Puke Rippa Rugby Module joining the already established Omokoroa, Otumoetai, Papamoa and Waipuna modules.

Rippa Rugby is a safe, non-contact, and easy to play game for both boys and girls alike. It features simple rules, is easy to earn, and aims to promote excellent ball handling and running skills.

But most importantly – it's really, really fun.

BOP Rugby junior rugby manager Brett Johnson acknowledges the support of those behind the scenes who've assisted in the expansion of Rippa Rugby across the Western Bay.

'A huge thanks needs to go to all the sports coordinators and parents who make this all possible for the kids. Their help allows us to grow the game we love and give kids the opportunity to participate in something active but loads of fun.”

Brett also wants to recognise the efforts of Quentin Harris who's been assisting the BOP union to establish the Te Puke Sport module.

'It is fantastic we are now able to hold a Rippa Rugby Module in Te Puke for these kids. The support from the Te Puke schools has been great and the contribution from Quentin has been outstanding. It is great to see the community rallying behind the initiative.”

BOP RUGBY UNION'S RIPPA RUGBY SCHEDULE:

• OMOKOROA MODULE:
  Date: Monday, February 27 –April 3
  Location: Omokoroa Sports Grounds
  Time: 3.30pm – 6.30pm
  
  
• OTUMOETAI MODULE:
  Date: Tuesday, February 28 – April 4
  Location: Fergusson Park, Matua
  Time: 3.30pm – 6.30pm
  
  
• TE PUKE MODULE:
  Date: Wednesday, March 1 – April 5
  Location: Murray Salt Stadium, Te Puke
  Time: 4.00pm – 6.00pm
  
  
• WAIPUNA MODULE:
  Date: Thursday, March 2 – April 6
  Location: Waipuna Park, Welcome Bay
  Time: 3.30pm – 6.30pm
  
  
• PAPAMOA MODULE:
  Date: Friday, March 3 – April 7
  Location: Gordon Spratt Reserve, Papamoa
  Time: 3.30pm – 6.30pm

For all draws and results visit the Bay of Plenty Rugby Union's website at: www.boprugby.co.nz