Rugby WA held a junior development clinic at Royals’ footy oval on Monday and Tuesday to gauge whether there was enough interest to start a junior rugby competition in the city.

Great Southern junior rugby development officer Andrew Shaw was encouraged by the healthy turnout of young players and their enthusiam for the game.

“The numbers we’ve had suggests we will be able to hold a competition in a couple of weeks,” Shaw said.

Albany junior player Bruce Smith-Wright was on hand to help with the coaching.

The rising rugby star is now based in Perth and trains five days a week on a Western Force program.

“He stood out in some trials we set up for him and in a couple of years he may be playing for the Force,” Shaw said.

“He’s a great example for these younger kids to see what can be acheived.”

The clinic students also benefitted by listening and learning from top local coaches Dave Hearnden-Hall and Trevor Coe.

“Trevor has coached in Albany for over 20 years and Dave’s coached all over the world.

“These guys have the knowledge and can train the kids properly.

Albany junior rugby is always looking for new players - from under 8s to 16-year-olds.

If you’d like to give rugby a try, phone Andrew Shaw on 0411 798 229 or email development@rugbywa.com.au.