For the 4th year in a row, The Springfield Celts Rugby Club hosted rugby clinic for the teenaged boys and girls of the Illinois Inter-Agency Athletic Association (IIAA).

The Illinois Inter-Agency Athletic Association (IIAA) serves a wide variety of kids residing in different types of youth facilities. Some facilities specialize with sex offending youth, some with substance abuse problems, some with the developmental delayed, some with mental illness, some with behavioral problems, etc. Most of the youth have experienced neglect, violence, abuse and/or other trauma. Most are placed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services; however, youth also are placed by county probation, Department of Corrections, school district, and private placements. The age range of participants runs from 12 to 20, with most of the youth being from 14 to 18 years old.

The Celts provided a day of fun, skill-teaching, and an abundance of encouragement to the boys and girls of the IIAA. The day was hot, but the Celts’ infectious enthusiasm created a positive atmosphere that set the tone for the youth to try hard, have fun, and be good sports. As the youth were leaving at the end of the day, they were overheard talking excitedly about the fun they had had and their wonderful experience.

IIAA director, Tom Corr, said “We are very grateful to the Celts for giving our kids a great day. On behalf of the over 50 teenage boys and girls attending the Celts’ Camp, “Thank You” for a day filled with many joyful memories.”