Volkswagen Tag rugby event has kicked off in style with all 36 teams arriving in time for their games at Hamilton park, Strandhill Sligo.

With the 2011/12 season now confined to the books of history, clubs are already planning for the rigours of a new Ulster Bank League campaign next October.

Tullow RFC recently hosted an IRFU Welcoming Clubs Seminar. The Welcoming Clubs Programme is an IRFU initiative which provides a road map and training for the "team off the field" to assist them in running their sports club as efficiently as possible.

One of the most dedicated, productive and helpful Public Relations Officers on the Irish club rugby scene, Shannon RFC's Andrew McNamara is bowing out after ten fruitful years in the role. In his final club notes, he gives a brilliant insight into his time as the Limerick club's PRO.

The International Rugby Board and its member Unions have sanctioned a global trial of five aspects of law amendments following an extensive process of consultation and evaluation.

Dublin University have retained the IRFU Club Sevens title, winning at Dubarry Park last Saturday on a day when Blackrock College RFC won the Women's tournament.

Dubarry Park in Athlone will play host to the second IRFU All-Ireland Club Sevens Championships this Saturday with eighteen clubs vying for the Men's and Women's titles.

In the coming months thousands of IRFU Volkswagen Tag players will be starting their competitive season. As well as enjoying the thrill of competition, participants will also gain numerous health benefits from regular physical activity.

Aughrim RFC, one of Ireland's newest rugby clubs, will host their inaugural Golf Classic later this month to raise funds for the club, GOAL and the Charitable Trust.

The IRFU's Touch Rugby programme, IRFU Touch, will soon commence in Dublin at Templeogue College. Registrations are now live as teams sign up to become part of this fast growing form of the game.