THE sixth-form centres at York schools Huntington and All Saints’ have been getting into adult tag rugby league after new student sessions were launched for 16 to 19-year-olds.

The project, which saw 50 youngsters take part, aims to combat the drop-off in participants engaging in sport after the age of 16.

It is hoped sessions, which last for six weeks initially, will continue, led by young leaders at the schools.

Val French, of the Ebor Schools Sports Partnership said: “The touch rugby sessions proved to be popular with our sixth-form students.”

Adam Prentis, who delivered the sessions, said: “Touch rugby is fully inclusive allowing males and females to play alongside each other. The sixth form students relished this opportunity and quickly grasped the rules to enjoy this competitive game.

“Touch is a great way to introduce the sport in its own right even if some pupils do not wish or are not ready to progress to the full-contact version.

“We were all really happy with the uptake from the students and the effort and enthusiasm they showed.”

Nick Settle, the North Yorkshire Service Area coordinator, is setting up adult touch rugby sessions, at Huntington School, starting on Wednesday, May 11, and at Rowntree Park, starting on Thursday, May 12, both 6pm to 7pm.

The sessions will last for eight weeks and cost £3 per session.

For further information or to book places, phone Settle on 01904 553440 or email nicholas.settle@york.gov.uk