NSW Rugby Union app promotes engagement for Bathurst's rugby union community

NSW Rugby made the platform available to the public on Tuesday, via a newly designed phone app, to keep the rugby community connected during Covid-19.

Originally set for launch in mid-2020, the Positive Rugby Foundation have made several alterations to the platform's format to allow it to effectively assist rugby players at all levels during this period of isolation.

A range of coaching sessions, strength and conditioning and tactical tips will be available on the go.

Curtin said the rise of these online learning mechanisms have been a big boost to morale during a challenging period for all people in the rugby union community.

"I think everyone's going a bit stir crazy and having talked to a few parents I know the kids are really missing the social aspect," he said.

"Parents are also asking what they can do to keep the kids involved and NSW Rugby - along with other websites - have come up with many drills they can do at home.

"Anything positive in a time where people are locked down - especially for the much younger kids who don't fully understand the reasons why they're not allowed to go out - is going to be great for everyone."

The app is designed around drills which can be conducted alone or in pairs and within the current restrictions laid down by the government.

Curtin also hopes the app and other such programs can filter the benefits through to local businesses.

"We want kids to keep their minds open and not only that, we hope it encourages parents to spend some money at the local sports shops because they're obviously not selling any boots at the moment," he said.

"But if they go and buy a footy and practice their skills at home you're helping local businesses while keeping kids occupied."

NSW Rugby Union Head of Schools Rugby, Andrew Hill said the launch was about keeping players engaged with rugby whilst outside of their school or club environments.

"It was important for us to change the direction [of the app] given the situation rugby and the wider community is in, and get something into the hands of players so they can continue to stay connected to the game," Hill said.

"The platform - both the coaches and players versions - have been designed to give consistent skill and coaching information in one place.

"We've made sure all the key coaching ideals and focus points are aligned so that everyone is working towards the same outcomes.

"Our rugby community will have access to hundreds of skills, drills and games which is a massive step in building players understanding of the game."

For those Bathurst parents looking to access the Positive Coaching Platform head to igniterugby.com to register as a player and then head to the app store to download the Ignite Rugby app.