The vibe surrounding the 2020 rugby union season in Gloucester is 'electric'.
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This is according to Lower Mid North Coast junior rugby union president Aaron Dodds, following a Come and Try session for junior players.
The session was led by NSW Waratahs development officer Lisa Vogel, Stuart Paynter, Charlotte Maslen and Chris Marchant and involved 27 boys and girls, aged between six and 14.
They learnt the basics of the sport such as catching and passing, evasion, tackling and the breakdown.
Aaron said the session catered for players who are familiar with the sport as well as those who have never picked up a rugby ball.
"They learn to play as part of a team which is so important," he said.
"There's so much excitement in the air at the moment due to the calibre of kids who are doing well in rugby.
"It's about building for the future and growing our juniors for the years to come."
The Come and Try sessions are being held across the lower mid north coast and alongside the Get Into Rugby program and school based initiatives provide a complete package for the next generation of players to develop their passion for the sport.
"It's taken two to three years to get to where we are now so we're headed in the right direction," Aaron said.
With the absence of the Cockies from the men's competition in 2019, the sole focus in Gloucester has been on the women's side and junior players.
The lower mid north coast area continues to breed quality athletes, such as Gloucester's Charlotte Maslen and Wallamba five-eighth Courtney Currie, who have had representative opportunities.
"Women are building a culture where they've stepped up from touch (football) to fast paced, running rugby," Aaron said.
"You just look at the rugby sevens side in the Olympics- it's fantastic to see."
Gloucester junior Anthony Shultz took part in the David Campese Junior Barbarians tour of Europe last month.
He was treated to top level coaching and game time against European players.
On his return to Australia, Anthony attended the National Rugby Academy Camp in Armidale. Here he drew inspiration from Australian under 20s players Alex Newsome and Henry Robertson.
The five days of intense training was good preparation for the upcoming local season.
"Anthony continues to grow as a player and honestly the world is his oyster," Aaron said.
"His mum Jennie said Anthony and the family has been involved in sport around Gloucester for many years but rugby union is the first time they have been able to see the world through sport.
"They want to help create a culture and environment around Gloucester to inspire other kids to play and see what rugby can do for them."