- Motherhood Melbourne
A rugby play program for Melbourne kids 2-7 years old
Move aside AFL – there's a new sport in town and kids are loving it! Rugbytots is play program that uses multiple skills of the rugby codes for children aged 2 – 7. When Joe Thorowgood moved to Melbourne, he was surprised that Victoria was the only state that didn't offer Rugbytots. Knowing the amazing benefits of it for young girls and boys, Joe decided to offer the program. Due to it's rapid popularity, Rugbytots Melbourne is now available in 4 locations. Learn more about how this program is run and how to sign up your tot for rugby fun.
HOOD MAMA SPECIAL – Visit the SPECIALS page for 20% off at Rugbytots Melbourne. Valid for September 2018.
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Written by JOE THOROWGOOD – owner of RUGBYTOTS.
The Idea
The concept of Rugbytots is to broaden the options for toddler/pre-school play groups and improve the parent/child interaction within these sessions.
Biz Beginnings
I worked for Rugbytots London for a few years before deciding to move to Melbourne. I discovered that Rugbytots didn’t exist in Melbourne however it does in all other major cities in Australia – (Victoria = AFL!). So I decided to start it up out here from scratch.
Making mothers lives better n' brighter
It is a great way to bond with their child. Parents are involved in at least half of the sessions rather than just watching from the sidelines. They spend quality time with their children whilst helping them to develop crucial social and psychological skills.
Customer love
When I get a 5* review or compliment from the parent it feels incredibly special. To come to a new city with a new business and see the children and parents having such fun together is amazing in itself.
However when they write a review or send an email thanking you for running the sessions because their child is loving them it completely validates my risky decision to move out to Melbourne and start up Rugbytots.
Most popular offer
We currently offer weekly classes on weekends. Although most people sign up a term at a time, I am flexible with people’s personal situations and try to be as accommodating as possible so numerous families can participate. We are looking to expand into schools and kindergartens soon.
Frequently-asked-question
“Is your business for boys and girls?” OF COURSE IT IS! At this age the skills are completely transferable and life long. So even if you have no desire for your child to play rugby it really is much more than that. It’s far more about friendships, physical development and social skills to name a few.
Behind-the-scenes
I think people would be surprised to find out about the post session review we have with our team after the sessions. Discussing what activities worked well, what ones the children really enjoyed, how we can get the parents more involved and what children will need more encouragement next week. We really do try to maximise the effectiveness of the sessions.
Biz love
The thing that I love most about Rugbytots is children having fun and building relationships with their loved ones.
Down time
I’m actually in business mode quite often, it’s been something that I’ve been working on. I’ve started to force myself to take a day off here and there with my phone off and just relax. I go to the gym, meet up with my brother who moved out here with me and practice mindfulness.
Future plans
We are growing rapidly. After only one term and one location we have expanded to 4 LOCATIONS – Cranbourne, Toorak, Derrimut & Reservoir. So who knows what the rest of 2018 holds but it’s sure to be exciting.
HOOD MAMA SPECIAL – Want 20% off sessions at Rugbytots Melbourne? Visit the SPECIALS page to grab the code. Valid for bookings made in September 2018.
ABOUT RUGBYTOTS
Children’s pre-school rugby play program.
Business owner:Joe Thorowgood
Fav café: Downstairs, Southbank
Coffee order: Long Black
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