Should we take competition out of mini rugby?

LIKE Colin Dunne, I was a mini-rugby coach (and women’s team captain) and totally agree with everything he says (Mail). The boys and girls who played every Sunday loved it. The games were always fun — win or lose — and the etiquette of rugby was a lesson for life. Players always line up at the side of the pitch and clap the opposing team as they walk through the tunnel. The referee was called ‘Sir’ and there were no arguments on the pitch. While I was refereeing one tournament, a boy tried to argue with me. I said: ‘Not on the pitch but feel free to discuss my decision in the clubhouse afterwards.’ This was accepted straight away and we later agreed to differ and shook hands. In life, we’re always going to lose at some point. It’s how we deal with it that is so important. Rugby seems to be the only place left that teaches children this in a good way. Don’t change it — expand the ethos to other sports.

JACKY MOSKOVITS, Canterbury, Kent. SUrrey rugby aren’t trying to stop competition. They are protecting mini-rugby players from WAAC (win at all costs) coaches. The best players will still be the ones who end up playing for the first team and that says it all. To some people, it’s all about the first team. But what about the players who would love to play but aren’t good enough for the first team, seconds, thirds, etc? Should they give up? WAAC coaches at mini-rugby level will select the best players each week to ensure the best chance of winning. Those left over may get a few minutes once the coach is certain of the result. Of course, the coach may be able to look back and enthuse about all the medals his team won. But is that success? Or would success be seeing how many players are still playing the sport (maybe even in the first team) — a sport that they grew to love by being given a chance to play?

MARK BENTLEY, High Wycombe, Bucks.