Rugby Development Officer (RDO)
Growing great rugby experiences at Suburbs Community Sports Club
Our Rugby Development Officer (RDO) helps players, coaches, and teams thrive — on and off the field. From junior fundamentals to coach support and safer rugby, the RDO strengthens our club capability and helps more people enjoy the game.
What does a Rugby Development Officer do?
Community &
Schools
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Strengthening relationships with schools
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Supporting new players and families joining
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Building rugby connections locally
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Helping grow the game in our community
Pathways &
Retention
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Supporting transitions between grades
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Helping players stay involved and enjoy rugby
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Linking players to appropriate opportunities
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Encouraging inclusive participation
Safer
Rugby
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Safe contact and tackling technique support
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Consistent development approach across grades
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Promoting positive sideline behaviour
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Helping create a welcoming club culture
Player Development
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Skill development for all age groups
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Confidence-building and fundamentals
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Position-specific guidance where needed
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Clear progression steps as players grow
Coach
Support
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Training session ideas and age-appropriate drills
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Season planning and structure
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Mentoring and practical on-field support
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Coaching development and qualification guidance
Meet Our Rugby Development Officer
Suburbs RDO: Pete Ratima
Pete brings a strong passion for community rugby and player development to Suburbs. With experience across junior and community rugby, his focus on building confidence, skills, and enjoyment at every level of the game.
His approach is centred on supporting coaches, developing safe rugby habits, and helping players grow, whether they’re picking up a ball for the first time or progressing through the grades.
Key focus areas:
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Coach support and development
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Player skill and confidence building
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Safe contact and tackling fundamentals
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Clear pathways and positive rugby experiences
“My goal is simple — help players enjoy rugby, support coaches, and make Suburbs a great place to learn and grow in the game.”
What they’re doing for Suburbs right now?
Our RDO is focused on practical support that improves the day-to-day rugby experience across the club.
Better Coach Support
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Coach resources and simple session plans
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On-field support and mentorship
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Making it easier for new coaches to start strong
Development
Opportunities
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Skills clinics and targeted development sessions
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Safe contact fundamentals and confidence building
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Supporting players with key rugby basics
Stronger
Pathways
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Helping players progress between grades
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Supporting retention through fun and connection
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Building a consistent club-wide development focus
Why it Matters?
A strong club doesn’t happen by accident.
The RDO helps ensure Suburbs delivers safe, enjoyable rugby with better coaching support, confident players, clear development pathways, and a positive club culture for families and volunteers.