T & T IN RUGBY WORLD CUP QUALIFIER

The Trinidad and Tobago National Senior Men's Rugby team will travel to Cayman Islands for a crucial 2011 Rugby World Cup qualifying tournament (19 - 27 April).

There the Calypso Warriors will battle the likes of Barbados, Bahamas, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico and host Cayman Islands. The reward for the winner, a second round match up with the winner of the South America B group winner.

The Trinidad and Tobago Rugby Football Union (TTRFU) Chairman of the Selectors, Curtis Nero, admits to financial challenges, but he is anticipating assistance from the Ministry of Sport.

"In the past we have received their support. I would be very surprised given the importance of the upcoming tournaments if we (TTRFU) fail to earn MOS support".

T&T in recent years have fallen down the regional rugby pecking order.

Nero, a former National rugby team captain, would like the current crop of National rugby players to wake up to the demands and responsibilities of being a National player.

"Hunger and a burning desire, national pride, courage and the willingness to do whatever it takes, are ingredients that the players must embrace,” said Nero.

In addition to the April Rugby World Cup qualifier, T&T also have World championship qualifiers for Women, U19 and 7s rugby. Obligations that must be met by the TTRFU .

TOURNAMENTS:

NAWIRA Junior World Trophy 2009 U20 Qualifier
July 5th - 13th 2008
Barbados

Caribbean Women’s 2008 15 A-Side Championships
May 3rd - 10th 2008
Georgetown

RWC 2009 Sevens NAWIRA Men’s & Women’s Qualifier
October 25th & 26th 2008
Nassau, Bahamas