High school rugby players are getting a boost.

Teenage athletes hoping to prolong their playing careers into post-secondary schools will get an opportunity to display their skills during a high-school player showcase for Canadian university and college coaches April 30 at the Aurora Sports Dome.

“Connecting prospective student athletes with varsity coaches is our goal for the showcase,” said Sandy Townsend, director of rugby development for Advantage Rugby which is hosting the inaugural event. “We want kids to understand the development opportunities that exist and for coaches to be able to identify talented players.”

The event includes one-hour sessions for boys from 4 to 5 p.m. followed by an hour for girls.

Several universities, located mainly in Ontario, have confirmed attendance for the event.

Townsend, a coach for the under-18 level with the Aurora Barbarians Rugby Football Club, said the sport requires a direct connection between high school players and post-secondary school levels.

“There’s a gap,” said Townsend. “We know coaches and we know kids but realize they’re not talking to each other. This is a chance to meet and see what they expectations are at the next level. It’s an opportunity to put everyone in the same room.

“Hopefully we can create a little awareness and show kids what they have to do over the summer to be prepared for the next level.”

The chance for post-secondary schools to observe talent under one roof is appealing.

“This is a great idea,” said Graham Brown, former CEO of Rugby Canada and current president and CEO of U Sports. “Opportunities like this give student athletes the visibility, appreciation and reward they deserve.”