In May of this year the club hosted one of the biggest veterans rugby tournaments in the country. The event was part of the wider Charity Sporting Prints Project established by local businessman and veteran rugby player David Higgins.

Undoubtedly one of the biggest characters from the ex-international players who gave their time to support the tournament and benefit a number of good causes was Junior Paramore. With 29 caps for the Samoa National team and having also represented his country at the seven-a-side version of the game it was fantastic to have a player of such calibre visit Ardencaple Playing Fields.

Nearly five months on the club were fortunate to have Paramore visit the club for a second time, this time players from the youth section were to benefit from the visit.

Helensburgh RFC youth coach Martin Caldwell organised a rugby camp for around 25 young players (seven to 12-year-olds). The activities were led by Junior Paramore and supported by Martin and Will Brewer from 3D rugby coaching.

The sessions included fun warm ups, agility balance and coordination exercises, as well as a chance for the players to showcase their evasion skills running with the ball in hand.

Junior Paramore then led a full contact session with the older players imparting advice and activities around the more physical aspects of the game including tackle situations, ball presentation and off-loads.

The rugby camp concluded with food and drinks in the clubhouse and a chance for the players to get autographs signed and ask questions about Junior’s international experiences playing against the best players and teams in world rugby.

The event was a great success and even the rain managed to hold off on the day.

Martin Caldwell said: “The kids really enjoyed themselves and along with the coaches learned new skills in a short space of time.

“Junior has not only played at the highest level, but is also now a well-qualified coach of the game. He is a real gentleman and great with the kids, although I’m glad I didn’t have to play against him in the vets rugby tournament in May.” Junior Paramore is currently lead coach at Totton College Sports Academy and is also establishing his own rugby academy www.juniorparamore.co.uk.

The day also provided an opportunity for networkworking and creating links that may be of mutual benefit with a new local business venture Ultimate Sport Trips www.ultimatesporttrips.co.uk.

The sports company provides affordable and quality sporting experiences for children and adults alike, minus the organisational demands and worries.