Bursting Stones: Taupo

Chapter 5: Learning

The next day, Koha and Rangi met Chassie at the schoolyard, ready to fulfill their promise of teaching him how to play rugby. The sun shone brightly overhead, promising another beautiful day in Taupo. Koha couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement as they gathered on the grass, the rugby ball resting at their feet.

"You know, you're the first person i've befriended thats not Maori." Koha Said. "Alright then" Chassie said right back with a weird look on his face.

"Are we teaching Chassie rugby or not?" Rangi asked Koha. Koha looked back with an embarrassed look on his face. "Yeah, sure." Koha said back.

"Alright, Chassie, let's start with the basics," Rangi said, holding up the ball. "This is a rugby ball. The goal of the game is to score points by carrying or kicking the ball over the opposition's goal line."

Chassie nodded eagerly, his eyes fixed on the ball. "Got it."

Koha stepped forward, demonstrating the proper way to hold and pass the ball. "You want to hold it with your fingers spread out, and pass it using a sideways motion. Like this."

Chassie watched carefully, mimicking Koha's movements. He fumbled a bit at first, but with practice, he began to get the hang of it.

"Nice one, Chassie!" Rangi exclaimed, clapping him on the back. "Now, let's work on running with the ball."

They spent the next hour practicing drills, running back and forth across the field, passing and catching the ball. Chassie proved to be a quick learner, his natural athleticism shining through as he picked up the basics of the game.

As they took a break, Koha couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. It was rewarding to see Chassie's progress, knowing that they had played a part in helping him learn something new.

"You're doing great, Chassie," Koha said, offering him a bottle of water. "You're a natural."

Chassie grinned, taking a swig of water. "Thanks, guys. I'm having a blast."

Rangi clapped him on the shoulder. "You're going to be a star on the rugby team in no time."

As the afternoon wore on, they continued to practice, refining their skills and enjoying each other's company. Koha felt a sense of camaraderie with Chassie and Rangi, a bond forged through their shared love of the game.

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the field, they gathered their belongings and made their way home. Koha felt a sense of satisfaction, knowing that they had accomplished something meaningful that day.

As they walked, Chassie turned to Koha and Rangi with a smile. "Thanks for teaching me how to play rugby, guys. I can't wait to play with the team."

Koha grinned back, feeling a sense of fulfillment. "Anytime, Chassie. We're always here to help."

As they said their goodbyes and went their separate ways, Koha couldn't help but feel grateful for the friendship he had found in Chassie and Rangi. They may have started as classmates, but they had quickly become so much more. And as they continued on their journey together, Koha knew that there would be many more lessons to learn and memories to create.

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