The Bloods are increasing their emphasis on community involvement this year, with part of that focus being visits to primary schools for clinics.

The clinics kicked off yesterday when senior coach Rick Coburn, who is also the club’s development coach, and players Marcus Varley, Tom Hams and Jayden Sheean visited the Quarry Hill and St Joseph’s primary schools.

“With my role this year as the development coach, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to start at the grassroots with the primary school kids,” Coburn said yesterday.

“We’re trying to put in a bit of development back into the schools south of Bendigo with some clinics and help to build some links in the community.

“Today we’ve ran some handball, kicking and marking drills with the kids, and played a little game at the end.

“It’s all about having fun and just working on those basic building block skills of footy.”

Coburn said the Bloods were hoping to work with up to seven schools as part of their development program.

“Throughout the year we’ll be doing little bits and pieces in the schools, but also trying to have some links with other sporting clubs, such as tennis and bowls clubs,” Coburn said.

“We know at South Bendigo that having a community is important to us, so we’ve got to get out there and show that we’re keen.

“Hopefully, from this we can build on our playing and supporter base.”

South Bendigo will hold its junior registration this Sunday from 2pm at its Queen Elizabeth Oval social rooms.