Franklin’s Gardens played host to the final DPP festival of the season on the Sunday, as each of the East Midlands centres came to the home of Northampton Saints.
Northants Alliance, East Northants, Hunts & Peterborough and Bedfordshire came together for the last time this season, giving the players one more opportunity to play with and against each other before the season comes to an end.
The parents were also invited to attend a presentation, outlining the process for next season, to give the children an idea of what they can expect.
Speaking after the event, Ross Stewart, Saints’ EPDG Manager said: “I think it was hugely successful.
“It’s massive for us to be able to get everyone together in one area rather than than trying to get out to the four centres.
“it’s about the kids having a smile on their face, challenging themselves in new environments and playing against people that they don’t normally play against.
“I think it’s always nice to come to the home, to come to Franklin’s Gardens; it’s quite an inspirational place.”
Looking ahead to next season, Stewart described how the coaching aspect of DPP will be a major focus: “Next year, I think we need to work harder on the coach development.
“It’s not only the coaches who are coaching the DPP but the club coaches.
“It’s important that people understand that the first rung on the ladder in terms of development is clubs and schools.
“We need to get to know them, understand them, build a relationship; that is going to be a massive thing to work on for us next year.”
