‘Friday Night Lights’ Creates Opportunities

It’s a phenomenon in America and now it’s hitting the Selwyn District, with ‘Friday Night Lights’ now a staple in the Ellesmere Rugby calendar for Division 3, providing opportunities for a number of players to stay in the game. The ability to play under lights has helped several grades keep the fixture list in check, with the Luisetti Seeds Ellesmere Division 1 set to be played at Easter.  

For the teams competing in the Division 3 competition, playing on a Friday night provides an ideal setting in which to stay connected to the game, allowing the fathers, the coaches and those that combine both to still utilise their Saturday’s as they choose. As Lincoln Club Captain Andrew Clayton says, this provides an opportunity for all to come down to the club and get immersed in the club rugby atmosphere.  

“Having the lights on when we play on a Friday night,” said Clayton, “it allows the kids to come down and run around, the spectators to come down, watch some footy from the club and the players to play in an inviting, family environment.” 

“It’s got to the point where our Division 3 team insists on playing on a Friday night so that they can still play around their commitments.” Clayton said.  

As a result, many of the Division 3 players can commit time back to the game, with many of the group fathers and subsequently coaches of their children’s teams.  

“I’d say a third to a half of the players would coach on a Saturday, and if they don’t, they all have young kids, so they’re involved anyway.”  

For the last three years, the grade has shifted to nearly all games taking place on a Friday, something that is now being utilised by several grades, especially in pre-season.  

“Next Friday night, we’ll have three games under lights, with most teams loving the opportunity to play under lights.” said Clayton. 

“From the club perspective, having the club open on a Friday night allows us to keep the club afloat and it provides that hub for our community to enjoy a nice, relaxed atmosphere and some footy.” 

If Saturdays don’t suit, there’s an option for everyone to stay involved in rugby, contact your local club to enquire about these options today!