Stags awarded accreditation for accessibility in rugby

MELKSHAM Mixed Ability Rugby have been awarded the International Mixed Ability Sports (IMAS) accreditation for the club’s inclusivity and accessibility, and are only the second club in the country to achieve this status.

IMAS regional development manager Dan Hine said, “Melksham Stags have been a credit to the mixed ability model with their eagerness to learn and continue to make their club as accessible and inclusive as possible. This is evident from the number of new members they have welcomed into their environment, both on the pitch and off.”

Lead coach of the Melksham Stags Jez Flower said, “The IMAS accreditation training allows community clubs the opportunity to reflect on their current practice and learn more about the support they could offer their players whilst recognising their commitment to the mixed ability model, to make a more inclusive community.

“We are immensely proud of how far we have come on our mixed ability journey. To be only the second rugby club in the country to achieve this accreditation is beyond our wildest dreams. After only starting the stags in November 2021 our group of players and volunteers have really bought in to the mixed ability ethos. We are getting great numbers at training on Monday nights and continue to attract new players both young and old.

“A massive thank you to the Melksham Rugby Club committee for their unwavering support, also my fellow stags both playing and non-playing. “This accreditation will propel Melksham Rugby Club and our mixed ability ethos globally; we already have two stags representing the international Maris team. I am also in talks with more mixed ability teams from Europe.

“I would also like to thank all our sponsors; without your support I am sure we wouldn’t be where we are now.”