Despite having undergone surgery to repair a long term shoulder injury that will keep him out of action for the rest of the season, Cardiff Blues Hooker Duane Goodfield is still actively involved with squad duties.
Duane was at Llandaff Rowing Club earlier in the week handing over certificates at a special presentation and question and answer session with the Glyn Derw XL Club.
Speaking at the event Duane said:
Obviously Im disappointed to be missing the rest of the season due to the injury, but the shoulder had been a problem and this was the only time that it was possible to have the surgery and for the shoulder to get stronger before the start of next season. It is frustrating but I guess its just one of those things that rugby players have to put up with.
Im delighted to be here today presenting the certificates and the achievements of all those involved in the Glyn Derw XL club is an example to us all.
Over the past 4 weeks Sport.Cardiff/Cardiff Blues Rugby Development Officer Chris Ower and Future Blues U12s Development Officer Nadine Griffiths have been working with the support of the Princes Trust and RBS with the Glyn Derw XL Club and the 13 young people involved.
The XL Club is a network of clubs running in schools all over the UK and helps re-engage 14-16 year olds. The clubs run for about three hours per week during school time, have 12-15 members and are supported by an XL Adviser. XL isnt like school lessons. It helps make learning fun and is voluntary students only join XL if they want to. It offers a practical way to learn new skills, plan for the future and provides a positive experience of school.
This initiative links the game of rugby to The Trusts in-school xl programme. Through rugby based activities such as tag rugby sessions, player Q and A sessions and stadium tours, young people are able to develop key skills such as team working, self-confidence, motivation and leadership. The initiative was delivered by the Rugby Football Union, Scottish Rugby Union and Welsh Rugby Union.
The 13 Young People from Glyn Derw High School gained the Community Tag Leaders Rugby Award and took part in both the coaching and officiating of Tag Rugby.