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Home , Bill Beaumont, Chester RUFC, Chris Robshaw, Cornish Pirates, Dylan Hartley, Graham Rowntree

November 2012 Issue 151

The Official Newspaper of The RFU QBE INTERNATIONALS KICK OFF IN THE CITY At the launch, the Coaches announced the squad to face Fiji, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand. Verity Williams To mark the start of the series, five giant rugby balls were installed in ’s England Coaches , Lime Street for the day, between the and recently Lloyd’s and Willis buildings in the busy headed to the City of London to launch centre of the insurance district. Each the inaugural QBE Internationals at three-metre high ball created quite a stir the business insurance specialist’s with commuters and represented one of European headquarters. the nations competing. The QBE Internationals, which opened All five balls moved to Twickenham on with the match against Fiji, see England 10 November where they were situated take on the best of the southern in the stadium’s South Car Park for hemisphere at fans to view ahead of the first match. this autumn. Fans attending the remaining QBE Andy Farrell, England Backs Coach, Internationals should also head to the Ian Ritchie, and Steve Grainger said: “The QBE Internationals give us South Car Park to see the England ball the opportunity to compete against top with the relevant opposition ball. quality sides, including current World As part of this partnership, the RFU will Champions New Zealand. We look also be working with QBE to invest in forward to this challenge and relish community rugby now to build capacity the prospect of performing in front of for future generations to enjoy. We’ll give WORLD CUP a packed Twickenham Stadium for all more detail about how we’re doing this four matches.” towards the end of the year. LEAD UP AND LEGACY Nicola Marshall

The RFU announced its participation legacy plans with exactly three years to go until the final 2015. Chief Executive Ian Ritchie, alongside Rugby Development Director Steve Grainger, and England’s most capped player, , outlined seven areas of focus for the RFU in the lead up to 2015 and beyond. From building capacity by improving facilities and increasing the quantity and quality of coaches, to getting more schoolchildren playing rugby or encouraging players to return to the game, the plans are well underway. 1. Facilities – Committed an additional investment of £10m to create £25m worth of improvements in club equipment and facilities benefiting over 500 clubs nationwide – from kit and equipment to club houses, changing rooms and floodlights to all weather pitches. 2. People – New investment of over £1m to deliver more than 6,500 newly qualified referees and coaches. Staging master classes for over 5,000 existing coaches and referees along with a focus on young people bringing in 5,000 additional club volunteers. 3. Schools – Launched the All Schools programme to ensure more schools are offering rugby and give over 1m young people opportunities to play. The initiative aims to introduce the game into 400 non-rugby playing secondary schools by 2015 and up to 750 by 2019. 4. Returning players – Working with colleges, universities and employers to inspire thousands of 16-24 year old players back into clubs across England. 5. Touch rugby – Ambition to encourage 15,000 new players to take up rugby by broadening the reach and appeal of the game through more access to touch. Over 200 club and 100 university based O2 Touch Centres will be set up by 2015, offering a range of pitch up and play activity, organised Leagues and events. RFU’S FINANCIAL RESULTS 6. Other nations – Building links between the RFU’s Constituent Bodies and over 15 of The 2012 RFU Annual Report & Accounts, published this month (November) confirm continued Europe’s key developing rugby nations to share knowledge on how best to grow and and substantial investment at all levels of the game, despite the financial impact of fewer home develop the game. matches in a Rugby World Cup year. 7. Cultural engagement – Developing a series of cultural programmes using art and The accounts show an anticipated and planned for loss of £6.3m for the Rugby World Cup photography to bring alive what Rugby means to local communities. year from 1st July 2011 to 30th June 2012 but investment in the sport at every level maintained thanks to the RFU’s established reserve policy. Ian Ritchie, Chief Executive, RFU said: “With three years until the culmination of one Said CEO, Ian Ritchie, “The is a dynamic, of the greatest sporting events on home ground, we are putting in place the infrastructure credible business underpinning the whole game in England. We and investment now to ensure that we deliver the greatest participation legacy for the game. have both solid financial foundations and security for many years to This truly is a once in a generation opportunity to showcase and grow our game and one come and plan our finances on a four-year Rugby World Cup cycle, that we plan to make the most of.” with each World Cup year also bringing only two home Six Nations The Rt Hon Hugh Robertson MP, Minister for Sport commented: “I am delighted to matches to Twickenham. In this way we continue funding every level see the RFU is using the RWC 2015 to inspire new players, grow the game and build on of the game in fallow years thanks to the profits we build up over the success of London 2012. It is the one of the largest sporting events in the world, so it the other three. There are many positives in the current accounts is extremely encouraging to see plans already in place with three years to go. As part of and much to look forward to as we head towards hosting Rugby these plans, the All Schools programme is an excellent initiative, ensuring that more young World Cup 2015, especially as 2012/13 already promises record people have the opportunity to play rugby in secondary schools.” group turnover, contribution and investment in the game. Chief Financial Officer Stephen Brown added, “This was an excellent Jason Leonard, who played in England’s 2003 World Cup winning side, said: “There’s year in terms of underlying business performance with above plan nothing like a World Cup to inspire a nation and hosting the event gives us the perfect revenues from our two Twickenham Six Nations matches, and record chance to demonstrate that rugby is a game for everyone. It’s exciting to see plans to build 103,000 weekend attendances and sales at the Marriott London Sevens. participation already in place, so clubs will be ready and waiting to welcome the influx of new players.” Continued on page 2… Ian Ritchie

1 Photo credit: Harish Chavda Photo credit: Harish Continued from page 1… BEAUMONT BECOMES FRIENDS AND RFU’S FINANCIAL RESULTS SIX NATIONS CHAIRMAN FORMER OPPOSITION “During the year we repaid £5m of our bank loan which , Chairman of the RFU Board, was recently elected Paul Bolton BILL Beaumont was a originally financed the Stadium’s South Stand and we will Chairman of the Six Nations Council and will serve in this role popular guest speaker have repaid the entire debt by the end of the current financial for three years. He takes at the Moseley Players year, making us debt free. We also provided £5.2m of capital over from David Pickering Association Autumn expenditure to kick start the £76m stadium refurbishment project who has been Chairman Supper held in the RFU and for the first time we are also accounting for the initial costs since May 2008 and Championship club’s of hosting Rugby World Cup 2015. Despite the anticipated loss, who will remain on the we have a significant asset base and very secure revenue streams, Six Nations Council as clubhouse. He made combined with substantial cash inflows and reserves which enable Representative for the a 240 mile round-trip Welsh . us to comfortably meet all of our ongoing responsibilities. from the Rugby Matters Bill said: “I am honoured In summary the highlights for the year were: Conference at Twickenham to be elected Chairman of • Reserve policy ensured game investment maintained the Six Nations Council. Stadium to speak at the • Revenues delivered on plan It is a privilege to be supper and be there with • Excellent crowds and sales for RBS 6 Nations home games and involved with the biggest two of his former England executive boxes sold out annual rugby competition team-mates, Martin Cooper • Twickenham Experience Ltd exceed budgeted contribution in the world. I would like and Jan Webster and • Record attendance and sales at Marriott London Sevens to thank, David Pickering to renew rivalries with • Marriott Hotel up on plan, with continued steady growth for his work over the former Moseley players • Broadcasting & partnerships last four years and I including fellow lock all on track look forward to working Richard Tuckwood • Cash flows strong with him and the rest of and Dave Warren, now • Balance sheet strengthened the Council”. chairman of the club. • £5m of Stadium South Stand Speaking after the Fylde, Beaumont’s only loan repaid announcement, RFU club during an illustrious • £5.2m capital expenditure on President, Paul Murphy, said: “I would like to congratulate Bill playing career, were regular opponents of Stadium refurbishment on his appointment as Chairman. His knowledge and experience Moseley. The RFU chairman also presented a will be valuable in representing England and ensuring that the • First time inclusion of Rugby World to mark 250 first team appearances to Moseley’s competition maintains its position as the best international Cup 2015 in financial statements long-serving hooker Adam Caves. tournament played each year.”

Calling All Clubs, Colleges and Universities…

SCHOOL GAMES SUCCESS University Rugby Rugby union has bid successfully to be part of the national Sainsbury’s School Games again in September 2013. The international event returns to Sheffield where the best Under 18 sevens girls from across the UK will take part. Our sport is part of the School Games at every level. There are excellent games and activities to get more children in your school involved in rugbyso visit www.yourschoolgames.com and click on the Sports section.

GREAT WEEKEND! Saturday 23rd March will see eight teams battle it out on Twickenham’s hallowed turf at the Daily Mail RBS Cup Finals. This year the RFU is offering up to 50 free tickets for school or college groups to come and watch the best of schools rugby. Simply email your details to [email protected] The Stadium will be buzzing for a second day on Sunday 24th with student rugby showcased in the BUCS Championship Finals. A limited number of free tickets are also available for this event, so send your details to [email protected]

UNIVERSITY 7s COLLEGES CONFERENCE & Sunday 17th March 2013 will see the first English Universities 7s CUP FINALS Finals day. Further information on the qualifiers and final will be released in the near future through your local University Rugby The second annual England Colleges Rugby Conference will be held Development Officer. on Wednesday 1 May 2013 at St Georges Park in Staffordshire. Aimed at growing rugby participation within the college sector, it will take place during the inaugural British Colleges Sport Week at the same venue when some 13,000 college students will take part in a PRESIDENT’S XV week long programme of activity including touch rugby and the BCS Now open for nominations, Rugby Cup Finals for both men and women. For more information or The QBE President’s XV Award to register email [email protected]. 2012/2013 includes categories for School, College and University Rugby. If you are working to keep 02 TOUCH FOR STUDENTS players in the game and enjoying A number of universities kicked off the season by engaging in the O2 their rugby, why not submit Touch programme, and enrolling as some of the first O2 Touch Centres. an application! Offering pitch up and play touch rugby activity to the university For more information on how to students, the programme will continue to grow over coming months apply visit: RFU.com/presidentsXV Paul Murphy and seasons. Watch out for more information in Touchline.

2 Touchline – NOVEMBER 2012 ENGLAND PLAYERS BACK TO THE FUTURE

COOPER’S 100TH IS ALSO HENDON’S 80TH

Hugh Godwin Magic Circle, a Mason and a member of a number of Chapters and Lodges, and he A wonderful life in rugby was remains a keen gardener at his home in celebrated by Hendon RFC in north Potters Bar, Hertfordshire. London when RFU President, Paul Paul Murphy spoke about the good work Murphy, was among those who toasted of the RFU Injured Players Foundation the 100th birthday of the club’s co- and made a presentation to Geoff for his founder, Geoffrey Cooper. achievements in rugby and his 100th birthday. Murphy attended a double-celebration Geoff responded with recollections of both dinner dance at the Crown Moran Hotel last his early playing days – he was vice captain of month (October) that also marked the 80th Hendon when he scored a try in their opening anniversary of the rugby club Geoff helped match - and his current fund-raising role to form at a meeting in the Chequers Pub in before being treated to a standing ovation. Hendon in October 1932. Geoff is still serving Michael Barnes for Middlesex Rugby on the club’s fund-raising sub-committee, he presented a silver salver from the County visits the club from time to time and never to mark Geoff’s long service to Hendon misses the annual general meeting. and rugby. Murphy congratulated Hendon on being Hendon believe their sevens event is able to celebrate its 80th in the company the longest running club sevens event in of Geoff, whose 100th birthday had been a the RFU, and the silver trophy presented week earlier. each year was originally presented by In Geoff’s business life he ran a company Teddy Knox, member of The Crazy Gang involved with the watch trade in Hatton entertainers whom Geoff knew through his Garden and has made substantial entertainment connections. Finchley RFC contributions to Hendon club funds. were the first time winners in 1955 and in He was also a prominent figure in the 2012 the trophy was won by Old Millhillians.

Archie McMilan from Warlingham RFC’s Under 12s meets

Verity Williams players to attend an England rugby training session at Pennyhill Park on PAVIORS CELEBRATE England Rugby is reinforcing its Monday 5 November. connection with the grassroots game It was a great day out for the 34 young WITH POPPY APPEAL by inviting young players from the people and their chaperones. They were senior squad’s formative clubs to be given England memorabilia and taken to Paul Bolton club’s partner charity. They name changing to Old Paviors mascots at the QBE International watch the training session. Afterwards they linked up with the Carlton and RFC and in 1976 dropping against South Africa on November 24. met the England players, including the one Nottinghamshire club District branch of the Royal the old from the name. the The mascots will run out at they had been nominated mascot for. Paviors celebrated their 90th British Legion for the day of ‘old’ from the name. Paviors Twickenham in their club kit alongside fund-raising and were joined found their current home at England Captain Chris Robshaw anniversary with a special the player if selected as part of the 23-man day of fund-raising for the by former players who served Burntstump Hill in 1974/75 and match day squad to face South Africa. explained: “It’s been great to meet the Royal British Legion’s Poppy in the services and who were at the end of the 198’s a few Even if ‘their’ player is injured or not young players. We all started playing junior Appeal and a whopping 73-45 de-mobbed between 1946 and members asked the committee rugby and we wouldn’t be where we are win over Market Bosworth in the 1970s. for £500 to establish mini and selected in the match day squad they will today if it wasn’t for these clubs. This is a Midlands One East. Paviors were founded by a junior rugby. The fact that the still be able to watch the game and will Paviors took to the pitch group of ex-pupils from High majority of the current first enjoy a memorable day at the Home of great way to recognise their contribution wearing a specially-designed Pavement Grammar School in team squad are products of England Rugby. and say thank you to them all” poppy kit which were pre-sold Nottingham in 1922 and club that mini and junior section Ahead of this O2, as a long-standing with half of the profits going affiliated to the RFU in 1929 as demonstrates the wisdom of partner of the RFU and keen supporters See the next issue of Touchline to find out how the to the Poppy Appeal, the High Pavement Rugby Club, the that investment. of grass roots rugby, invited these young 22 match-day mascots got on during their big day.

NOVEMBER 2012 – Touchline 3 LANCASTER PRAISES RUGBY VOLUNTEERS CHURCH STRETTON SCHOOL DOUBLE Paul Bolton

Shropshire’s Church Stretton School completed a double at the Army-sponsored West Midlands Schools Sevens at Stourbridge’s Stourton Park ground, winning two of the three competitions at finals day which attracted more than 380 under 16s boys and girls. Church Stretton won the boys’ contact tournament, beating South Bromsgrove, in the final and added the girls’ contact title in a competition that was played on a round-robin basis between nine schools. Haybridge HS from Hagley prevented a clean sweep by Church Stretton by winning the girls’ tag title, a tournament that attracted eight schools from North Midlands and Staffordshire. Nineteen schools entered the boys competition: Ellowes Hall (Staffordshire), Church Stretton (Shropshire), Windsor HS (Staffordshire), Chantry, Bishop Perowne, Nunnery Wood, Evesham HS, Dyson Perrins, Haybridge HS (all Worcestershire), Walsall Academy, Our Lady Wolverhampton (both Staffordshire), Lacon Childe , Belvidere, Meole Brace, Wodensborough, Bishop’s Castle (all Shropshire), Ridgewood HS (Staffordshire), Summer Hill and Coseley (both Black Country). Paul Bolton volunteers who ensure that our rugby among them: Ross Cowie from Eight Army referees officiated with the RFU’s team of Community clubs continue to flourish whether Eastern Counties, Mark Donovan Rugby Coaches from the West Midlands helping out. The Army England Head Coach Stuart it is through coaching, refereeing, from Staffordshire, Henri Ginvert Rugby Union also supplied the trophies , presented by England Lancaster recently paid tribute marking the pitches or making the from Leicestershire, John Kearsley, Women’s flanker Sarah Hunter and Brigadier Gerhard Wheeler to the army of volunteers who after-match meals,” Lancaster said. from Bedford, Ian Mason, of CBE, commander of 143 (West Midlands) Brigade. underpin rugby in England. Ten “We were delighted to welcome some Shropshire, Dan Sutton Notts, Lincs volunteers from Midlands and of those volunteers to our training and Derbyshire, Stephen Morgan, Eastern Counties clubs were session this week as a thank you, not from East Midlands, Nick Mudd of invited to watch the England just to them, but everyone who gives Notts, Lincs and Derbyshire, Andy squad train at St George’s Park, their time freely to ensure that rugby Root from Greater Birmingham and the Football Association’s centre in England continues to thrive. They Matt Smith, from Warwickshire. of excellence in Staffordshire, are an inspiration to all of us and a Carole Thelwall-Jones, RFU ahead of the QBE internationals reminder that every player who has Volunteer Engagement Manager, at Twickenham. the honour of representing England who hosted the event said, “Rugby The volunteers toured the training has got there with the support of club volunteers are simply the best and facilities, enjoyed a three-course or school volunteers.” it is fantastic to be able to invite lunch and then watched the England The tour of St George’s Park was these ten outstanding people to get a players train. Afterwards Lancaster the brainchild of Steve Grainger, the unique insight into the preparations thanked the volunteers for their work RFU Rugby Development Director of the England Team. They were in supporting England’s success at and Tom Stokes, England Team all nominated by members of the international level. Operations Manager, who arranged RFU local rugby delivery team for “English rugby is under-pinned the day out for some of the region’s their contribution to developing by the army of more than 60,000 deserving grassroots volunteers, our sport.”

RFU’S O2 TOUCH INITIATIVE RETURNS TOUCH AT FIVE WAYS THIS AUTUMN

Verity Williams

This autumn the RFU’s O2 Touch initiative is looking to get more people playing rugby. Following the success of last year’s summer sessions, the RFU and O2 are working together to bring year-round touch activity to locations across England. Clubs including Chester RUFC, Grasshoppers RFC, Scarborough RUFC and Trojans RFC are encouraging people to pitch up and play at their O2 Touch Centre throughout November. “We’re thrilled to be participating as one of the hubs for the O2 Touch programme,” said Leroy Arbouine, Community & Volunteers officer at Grasshoppers RFC in Osterley, West London. “Touch is a great way to keep fit, make new friends and have fun, and we are keen to promote O2 Touch and take part in this major project.” The RFU hopes to attract a range of people to the game – from women and parents who want to get involved but without the contact elements of the game, to former players who still want to keep fit but can’t do a full 80 minutes. Mark Given, Head of Sponsorship at O2, said: “We are very proud to have backed rugby in England at all levels for more than fifteen years. After the successful launch of O2 Touch last year – we are delighted to be continuing our commitment to introduce as many people as possible ASTON University won the inaugural Touch in introducing freshers and new female introduced to contact rugby ahead of the to the game of rugby, in whichever form is most accessible Rugby Festival for university women’s players to rugby. start of the BUCS competition which starts to them.” teams in the West Midlands. The programme is aimed at universities next month. A nationwide touch campaign will be launched in early The event, successfully hosted by Five outside the British Universities and Five teams from four universities took 2013, more detail will follow in an upcoming Touchline. Ways OE, was led by Jon Critchlow and Colleges Sport Premiership and uses part in the event with Coventry University Tom Huggins , two of the RFU Community touch rugby – a non-contact version of sending two sides and Aston, Birmingham For more about O2 Touch visit www.rfu.com/O2touch Rugby Coaches in North Midlands, and the sport – to introduce the newcomers City University and Birmingham University supported the work done in the universities to rugby. The players are then gradually one side each.

4 Touchline – NOVEMBER 2012 HORNETS REALLY BUZZING Paul Bolton

TELFORD Hornets won the recent J.P. Morgan 7s festival and will now attend the J.P. Morgan Asset Management Premiership Rugby 7s Series final next summer. Telford won both the Cup and the Plate tournaments at the Worcester festival where they met Under 14 sides from other Midlands clubs. They beat Droitwich 24-19 in the final of the Cup with a last-gasp try from Charley Wright, ASHINGTON LINKS RAISING GAME having earlier progressed to the knockout stages with a 100% record in their group where they Tony Simpson coach development a priority and this is also sections, which even if one coach attended beat Worcester B and . They then beat coming together well. both elements, we would still leave us with Worcester A with a golden try from Lewis Dorney RUGBY Union development in Along with this the club have had 15 100 new coaches equipped to tackle the after the scores were level 12-12 at the end of Ashington, Northumberland has coaches attending a Scrum Factory course Level 2 programme. normal time. Telford’s B team beat Worcester B been making huge strides thanks to after completing their Rugby Ready “The key thing now is turning these 32-0 in the Plate final with Warwick Gough, Ashley interaction between RFU Development coaching, which will leave them with the coaches into good Level 2 coaches and I’m Maiden and Josh Sterling each scoring two tries. Staff, Ashington RFC and the potential to have a Level 2 coaching team confident the support and mentoring they Each Aviva Premiership club stages a festival, Northumberland Church of England with winners invited to attend the finals day of the in place to work with these new NCEA will get from CRCs will be a crucial part of J.P. Morgan Asset Management Premiership Academy (NCEA) which has three driven teams. The development of a Level the project. A lot of people have contributed Rugby 7s Series, in which the Aviva Premiership campuses in the town. 2 coaching provision at Ashington is only a to this overall success and a big vote of clubs compete. The flourishing links between the club and part of a wider Rugby Development Team thanks is due to the CCCs in the clubs, to the NCEA are the product of a Community effort to strengthen a county-wide coaching the clubs for the use of their facilities and to Rugby Coach initiative at the school and team across the club spectrum. Northumberland RU Coaching Committee early evidence suggests that the enthusiasm “We’ve been busy preparing coaches in for their continued support.” of the pupils could result in three new teams the Northumberland clubs for the Level 2 Said Andy Blight, Director of Sport at at Under 13, Under 15 and Colts being in courses coming up.” said Northumberland NCEA: “Through our partnership with place at Ashington RFC in the near future. RDO Dave Reed. “Despite all of the RFU and Ashington RFC, we are Around 40 players attended a training the accreditation meetings and club developing rugby for all our learners. session and those numbers augur well for development workshops we delivered last The uptake at after-school clubs both in a thriving link in the future which will see season it was clear there was a shortage in primary and secondary has been excellent a non-rugby playing school transformed Level 2 coaches in the Northumberland since September. Mark Watson (CRC) has into an emerging school and developing a clubs. So we decided to cluster the clubs and inspired the learners in curriculum time and sustainable link to a club. The arrival of a deliver Rugby Ready and Scrum Factory Pete O’Brien (Ashington RFC) has helped new influx of players, of course, puts an onus sessions during August and September. We Mark deliver after-school clubs providing an on the RFU and Ashington RFC to give had contact with 201 coaches in the two excellent link to the club environment.”

in the community with the Queen’s Award for Mr Proud replied: “It is a great privilege to and the positive relationship developed with local Voluntary Service. be recognised for all the hard work that the schools, is singularly impressive. Led by a first-class BLYTH A Blyth Youth Rugby is among 112 organisations volunteers have put in over the years and team, and through hard work and dedication, around the country to get the honour, which is my thanks go to everyone connected with the group’s volunteers have developed excellent classed as being the equivalent of the MBE for the club, as without them we would not be relationships across the community and have SHINING voluntary service, a presentation event at the here tonight.” earned both respect and appreciation. magnificent Alnwick Castle providing the vehicle A citation read by Vice Lord Lieutenant, “ Blyth Youth Rugby is an exceptional and for representatives from the club to receive a Captain Ian Moffat, said: “Blyth Youth Rugby is inspirational example of a successful, dynamic EXAMPLE certificate signed by Her Majesty The Queen and an outstanding example of an entirely volunteer and entirely volunteer –led group dedicated to an exclusive commemorative crystal. group working with and for young people. The enhancing the lives of young people through Tony Simpson The club received the award for promoting group has operated very successfully for many active participation in sport.” Blyth RFC have reached their Golden Jubilee participation in sporting activities for school years and is exceptional in the quality of what it Melanie Magee, after playing and administering rugby for children and Blyth Youth Rugby chairman Max does for young people. Community Foundation manager, who was 50 years, so there are plenty of celebrations Proud accepted the award from Lady Jane Percy, “Affiliated to the Rugby Football Union, also in attendance at the reception, said: “The at Plessey Road. But none will have a more the Duchess of Northumberland who said: “It the group is a very effective and admirable Foundation very much enjoy working with spectacular backdrop than when the youth is a huge honour for me to present the Queens organisation which operates on strict compliance the volunteers and players to enable them to section at the club was recently in the Award to Blyth Youth Rugby who are a perfect with the high standard demanded by that body. achieve their aims and ambitions and we look spotlight. A voluntary group from the club has example of great voluntary work, which is a huge The enormous contribution which the group forward to building upon the relationship we been rewarded for 26 years of voluntary work benefit to the community.” makes to youth provision is widely recognised have formed.”

NOVEMBER 2012 – Touchline 5 FANTASTIC 26TH FESTIVAL AT ST JOSEPHS A great start by hosts St Joseph’s College ensured that the spectators had something to cheer about from the outset of the 26th National Schools Rugby Festival. St Joseph’s College, along with Merchiston, Dulwich and Millfield won all of their games, putting them through to the Cup competition. Brighton, Bedford, QEGS and John Fisher also progressed to the Cup competition. John Fisher of Purley won Cup group A and Millfield won Cup group B. In the final, the hard fought first half ended 0-0, with Millfield finally securing an 8-0 victory. Hosts St Joseph’s were unable to repeat their form on the second day. A close loss to John Fisher was followed by a win against QEGS but they lost their final game 3-7 to Merchiston of Edinburgh. The plate final was an extremely close match between RGS High Wycombe and Stamford School decided by two tries to one. Final score 10-5. Try of the tournament went to Tom Whiteley of Millfield (pictured) and The Nick Duncombe Player of the Tournament went to Sam Denham of Millfield. Next year’s festival will be held on 19/20th October 2013

Before the tournament began they attended a memorial service in memory of the 27 players and supporters who died ten years ago when terrorism hit the peaceful island of Bali and to remember others who had died in the intervening years. JUST Four clubs (Hong Kong Football Cub, Komodo , Singapore Cricket Club and Tai Pei Baboons) lost players and four Hong Kong referees were amongst the many injured. The father of one of the LIVE IT! Tai Pei Baboons, seeing the devastation ten years ago, turned to the survivors and said, “Just live it, lads!” Their club shirts have John Kelly and Michael Patz, from North Mids Referees, carried the mantra “Live it” ever since. travelled to Bali recently, joining referees from Australia, Two days intensive tournament rugby culminated in nine finals. Cambodia, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore as well as John started the ball rolling with the Jug Final and Michael refereed the two Indonesian based ex pats officiating in the Open Tens Men’s Open Tens Cup Final. All referees were complimented by various and Indonesian National Sevens tournaments. players during the event and even at the airport on the way home.

Paul Bolton

MORE than 60 youngsters gave rugby a try at a free Junior Rugby Fun Day staged by Pershore at their Wyre Piddle headquarters recently. Youngsters of all ages dropped in to try a range of rugby skill activities and workshops led by qualified coaches. The Fun Day gave the boys and girls the chance to try contact rugby and two non-contact versions of the sport, tag and touch. Pershore hope that many of the youngsters who visited will become regular players at the Worcestershire club. “It was a joy to see so many young people having a go at all types of rugby – from five year olds, to 16 year olds,” said Pershore’s Ben Andrews. “I can’t think of a better way to spend a Sunday morning.” Anyone wanting to try rugby at Pershore or requiring further information should contact Ben Andrews on 07779 927 852 or HAVING FUN e-mail [email protected]

OLYMPIC & PARALYMPIC LEGACY FOR NOTTINGHAMSHIRE Paul Bolton of £500 to £10,000 and Game Changer grants of £10,000 There are an estimated 1,500 sports clubs within to £50,000 to help local sports organisations promote sport Nottinghamshire, including 29 rugby clubs who are Nottinghamshire rugby clubs will have the and nurture talent to find the sports stars of the future. members of the Notts, Lincs & Derbyshire RFU. West chance to benefit from a £1 million Olympic and Lord Coe, chairman of the London Organising Bridgford, who are looking to expand their Stamford Road Paralympic Legacy Fund after Nottinghamshire Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games, said: clubhouse and increase provision for girls’ rugby, is one County Council became the first local authority in “After an amazing summer of sport that inspired people of the clubs that might benefit from the council initiative. the UK to respond to Lord Sebastian Coe’s legacy across the UK we must now harness that interest and Their chairman Dilwyn Evans said: “We all watched and plea with investment plans to produce future sports enthusiasm. This work, commitment and investment by were inspired by the Games and it has generated more stars in the county. Nottinghamshire County Council is a fantastic example interest in our sport and others. Funding pots such as this Nottinghamshire’s Olympic and Paralympic Legacy of how a legacy for London 2012 can be created at a can only help to develop our facilities and help us capitalise Fund features two streams of funding – Kick Start grants local level.” on this renewed interest in sport at grassroots level.”

6 Touchline – NOVEMBER 2012 SOUTH WEST FRESHERS FESTIVAL The South West Universities’ Freshers Festival marked the start of the 14th season for the region and took place at its traditional home of Bristol University’s Coombe Dingle Sports Complex last month (October), by Paul Absolom, Peter Johnson and Sarah Hunter. Twelve men’s and five women’s squads played games refereed by six qualified student referees from the Bristol University Referees Society and University of West of England, as well as former students now members of the Bristol Society. Each of the four pitches in action was covered by qualified First Aid team from Bristol University. The women’s event was an O2 Touch competition and for many players this was their first competitive experience. The men’s festival provided each squad with three 15 minute each way games against similar strength opponents. Squads comprised up to 25 players and showed the work and organisation put in during the various freshers weeks and trials across the region. The South-West Freshers were pleased to welcome Reading University for the first time. Participating squads were: Bath University ‘A’, ‘B’ & ‘C’ Bristol University ‘A’ & ‘B’ Exeter University ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’ & ‘D’ Hartpury College ‘A’ Reading University ‘A’ University of West of England ‘A’ In all over 300 players enjoyed the event and the challenge now is to maintain these numbers in the game and provide meaningful competition throughout this season and next. Last year’s highly successful season run along a ‘Grand Prix Circuit’ basis of six tournaments open to all higher education institutions across the region will be repeated again this season. Clubs can enter as many squads as they wish– accruing points towards the Grand Finals in February. For further information please contact either Paul Absolom at [email protected] (Mob: 07917010770) or Peter Johnson at [email protected] (Mob: 07780681392) Sarah Hunter (University Rugby Development Officer – South West) 07912541858 [email protected] PIRATES SET SAIL AGAIN With the transition of the spent a season winning the Wessex in the play-off match, The match between the COACHING & 1st XV Merit Table, it was and completed the season by Amateurs and The Coldstream into professionalism and agreed that the team be called defeating Veor in the final of the Guards was attended by some MADE EASIER BY RFU their subsequent rebranding the Pirates Amateurs. Cornwall Junior Cup. Promotion 2,000 supporters all wanting to as the Cornish Pirates, the The main purpose of the team placed them in the Cornwall & pay tribute to Darren, who was reserve side ceased to exist. was to provide locals with the Devon League finishing eighth born in Newlyn and had played However, thanks to the opportunity to play for their last season and at the time of for the minis, juniors and colts efforts of club stalwarts like local club and for the Amateurs writing they were lying in sixth before joining his regiment. Scott Dugdale, the team was to work closely with the Pirates place. They have now also Darren continued to play for the resurrected, initially in the Colts. This has been a major established second XV playing in Amateurs whenever he was home 2005/6 season playing as a success, with the vast majority the Cornwall Merit Table”. on leave and captained the side social side. of the current side having They are determined to when he played his last game. It soon became obvious that progressed through the minis, continue as a club with old The club appreciate their local there was a real desire to take juniors and colts. fashioned values and to keep their sponsors too. The picture shows things much more seriously, “After much hard work, Pirates sense of community, underlined Pirates Amateurs Captain Sam and, thanks to the quality of Amateurs were admitted into by their Memorial Match on Heath and sponsors Martin Stefan Curtis the players and their obvious the Cornwall League for the the Penzance Mennaye Field Murrish of Trelawney Citroen The Rugby Football Union this month introduced enjoyment, it was decided that 2010/2011 season. They finished for Coldstream Guards Lance Garage and Mike Adams of the a new online coaching device which covers every the team was more than capable second to Veor RFC, defeated Corporal Darren Hicks, killed Zero Lounge Cocktail Bar, both coaching level and environment. of playing league rugby. Having the Devon League runners up whilst serving in Afghanistan. of Penzance. With quality coaching fundamental for enjoyable and safe play, a great deal of work has gone into ensuring that the necessary knowledge, skills and attributes are developed for each environment at every level of expertise. LICHFIELD LIGHTS UP Whether new to coaching or an expert, this new online device means coaches can benchmark Paul Bolton their skills against the ideal and plan their route to coaching excellence. LICHFIELD had cause for double celebration when they switched on their Said Stuart Lancaster, “As someone who new training lights and were presented with their RFU Club Accreditation. has progressed through the RFU’s coaching The new lights at Cooke Fields cost £72,588 and were part-funded with an qualifications to become England Head Coach, I can award of £36,294 from the RFU Capital Investment Programme (CIP). The thoroughly recommend this new initiative. Bringing Staffordshire Environmental Trust contributed a further £30,000 towards essential information to coaches operating at every the costs of the floodlight project. The CIP is the capital funding element of level through modern technology will make their the RFU’s Whole Sport Plan funding allocation secured from government. progress faster and easier.” Tom Bartram, the outgoing RFU Rugby Development Officer from Grassroots coach, Paul Caldwell, from Newark U15s, Staffordshire, and Staffordshire RU president Michael Procter presented said, “Having seen this new online service, I would say the RFU Club Accreditation to Lichfield chairman Dave Bassett. “We that life will be a lot simpler for anyone who wants to are doubly delighted that after a review of our structure, systems, coach at whatever level and to progress as far as they processes and plans for the future the RFU have endorsed our club want. I know that I will use it and it will help me to with the award of the Club Accreditation which demonstrates the RFU’s develop alongside my young team.” confidence in our determination to continue developing a rugby for all This new Coach Development Model is available ethos at Lichfield,” Bassett said. for all to use at rfu.com.

NOVEMBER 2012 – Touchline 7 RECOVERING IN SENNEN SURF Following their victorious battle against Leeds Carnegie last month (October), the Cornish Pirates squad headed west for their post-match recovery in the surf at Sennen. It was quite an experience relaxing tired and aching bodies in the Atlantic’s surf and as an extra benefit welcome nutrition was provided courtesy of Wendy and John Nicholas at nearby Trevedra Farm. Cornish Pirates head coach Ian Davies said:”For four years Simon Raynes has wanted us to do a post match recovery session involving surfing and we finally relented! Thanks go to Dave Muir from the Sennen Surf Centre for providing the equipment and tuition for those who needed it. Harvey and I both missed the action in the sea but made sure we were in the queue for the GREAT SEVENS OPENER roast dinner at Trevedra Farm!” FOR ENGLAND WOMEN

Julia Hutton debuts, but the squad didn’t lose a final whistle blew, however, thanks single match. to a hat trick of tries from Katherine England Women opened their Day One saw victories over Spain, Merchant and two conversion from sevens season by lifting the France Netherlands, Germany and France skipper Katy McLean, England had International Sevens trophy in A, and England topping the table secured victory by 19 – 14. Marcoussis last month (October). alonmgside France. The two nations Maddocks said, “We didn’t come to England Women’s Sevens Head met in the final pool game, England France expecting to win the tournament Coach Barry Maddocks named a emerging winners by 21 – 5 before a as the main aim was to expose some relatively inexperienced squad, with final showdown which saw a nailbiting new players to sevens. To do that and three players making international 12-7 lead to France at half time. As the win is a tremendous bonus.”

Nicol McClelland “This season, I expect to see even more talented says youngsters making a name the LV= Cup has for themselves. Game time is MOODY SAYS been a catalyst in the crucial for their development development of the next into elite level players and the generation of elite rugby LV= Cup is perfect for this.” LV= CUP players in England and The Welsh contingents, Wales. He was speaking at , and the launch of the 2012-13 Newport Gwent-Dragons HELPS PLAYERS LV= Cup season where were all represented at the he was joined by a host of launch. Since its revision MAKE MARK English and Welsh club eight years ago to the current representatives including format, the LV= Cup the winner of the LV= competition has produced two Cup Breakthrough Player Welsh title holders in Ospreys Award, Gloucester’s (2008) and Cardiff Blues . (2009). progressed The launch was at Royal to the semi-finals of the Wootton Bassett RFC in competition last year but failed Swindon, the club where May to hold off Northampton plied his trade before joining Saints at Franklin’s Gardens, in 2009. who subsequently went May chose Royal Wootton on to lose the final to a Bassett to receive the £1,000 fearsome at prize he received as winner of Sixways Stadium. the 2012 LV= Breakthrough Home of Worcester Player Award and it will Warriors, Sixways will help in the redevelopment of host the final for a second their clubhouse. consecutive year having Lewis Moody, LV= Cup played host to a number of Ambassador, before retiring, important fixtures, including most recently played in the the 2011 LV= Cup for finals day, the 2011 U20 Six in their win over Worcester Nations Championship and Warriors last season. Said of course, the 2011-12 and Moody, 34, “The LV= Cup 2009-10 LV= Cup final. is a great tournament and LV= Head of Sponsorship one I loved playing in. The Claire Jeromson said: “The English, Welsh rivalry and LV= Cup plays a unique promise of a place in Europe role in nurturing the next meant the games were always generation of elite players fiercely competitive. and the LV= Breakthrough “The LV= Cup is an Player Award recognises excellent opportunity for standout individuals as well younger players to make their as helping grassroots clubs mark on the first team. As a and initiatives continue to senior player, it was brilliant produce talent like Jonny..” to see some of the academy players getting stuck in and The LV= Cup kicked off on growing in confidence as the Friday, 9 November. competition went on. Visit www.lv.com/rugby

8 Touchline – NOVEMBER 2012 PRIDE OF BRITAIN Paul Bolton

BOURNVILLE rugby player Carl Taylor has been presented with a Pride of Britain Award in recognition of his bravery on active duty in Afghanistan last year. Taylor was awarded the Military Cross earlier this year for his courage in acting as a human shield to protect three Afghan children aged between three and seven during a firefight in Helmand province in March 2011. A corporal in the 3rd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment, Taylor dodged bullets to rescue the boys during the attack and his courage was further recognised at London Grosvenor House Hotel where he was presented with his Pride of Britain Award for Outstanding Bravery in front of a star-studded audience that included The Prince of Wales and Prime Minister David Cameron. The awards ceremony was shown on ITV1 but Taylor, a regular in Bournville’s second team, remains modest about his bravery. “A lot of people would be bragging if they had done TEEN HERO MEETS RUGBY HERO what Carl has done but he is very modest and down-to- Tony Simpson The motivating force helping drive who said: “You can’t underestimate earth,” said Bournville director of rugby Rob Sigley. “He George forward during his 18-month the treatment he’s gone through and it was at our first team match to support the boys and didn’t GEORGE Stocker from Wetherby battle was the desire to return to action doesn’t matter how many times I hear mention that he had won the award. He loves his rugby maintained a BBC Radio 1 rugby with his Wetherby teammates – an him speak, I fill up and think that this and he is a regular in our second team. He usually plays union tradition when he carried ambition doctors feared might not be lad has gone through all that and now in the centre but he agreed to prop a couple of weeks ago off the Teen Hero Award at the within his range – but after gradually he’s raised all this money.” to make sure that we had a game after we found ourselves Wembley Arena recently. easing his way back into the game at George was nominated for the short of front row forwards. Last year rugby nut Charlie Ward a lower level, he finally made it back award by his sister Kelly, who said: “That typifies Carl. He’s a great club man and we are from Oswestry RFC won a Teen to take his place in the middle of the “I nominated him because he’s a very proud of the recognition he is receiving for what was Hero Award for saving a youngster front-row in April. massive inspiration to so many people.” an outstanding act of gallantry under fire.” from drowning. This year the Small wonder, then, that amongst Modest George explained: “She mantle passed to the 13-year-old the pop stars on show at Wembley nominated me, but really she loves from Yorkshire who demonstrated paying tribute to George was a star One Direction and she knew they his courage by dealing with a life- from another field of entertainment – would be on the show. Meeting Dylan threatening brain tumour and as soon England hooker . was absolutely brilliant and I was in as he was fit enough, setting about “Picking the winner from the short- complete shock. To have a fellow raising money for the Harrogate list of 13 nominees was unbelievably hooker present the prize made it so Candlelighters Charity. hard and the person who did win is special. Dylan was really nice and came That organisation supports children very inspirational indeed, as you’ll and watched One Direction with us battling cancer and thanks to George’s see.” said Radio One DJ Dev Griffin, afterwards. Then gave me his shirt efforts, over £50,000 has been added a sentiment echoed by Harrogate from when he captained England in to their funding. Candlelighters official Sue Patterson, South Africa.” SUSSEX CLUBS SUPPORTED AT AMEX STADIUM

Hugh Godwin The comments, suggestions and questions all go towards the RFU Carl Taylor and the CB identifying and responding to clubs’ needs. Brighton & Hove Mal Chumbley, Albion’s Amex Stadium Sussex RDO, said: “The was the venue for opportunity to network a successful clubs was praised by everyone support evening who attended and it organised by Sussex was interesting to see CRB RDO Mal Chumbley conversations between APPLICATIONS CHANGE in conjunction with clubs taking place, Sussex Rugby and swapping ideas and RFU staff. practical experiences. On the 1st December 2012, the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) Fifty-seven delegates “Consideration will will be merging with the Independent Safeguarding Authority from 21 clubs around be given to follow-up (ISA). The result will be a newly formed organisation known as the county gathered in workshops where we the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS). the Harry Bloom Suite find clubs identifying As a result of the change, the current CRB paper application with a fine view around a particular need form is replaced from the 12th November 2012 with a new form. the 28,000-seat venue for support. Player In order to ease the transition, the current form will continue to meet and swap ideas retention was a to be accepted by the DBS until 28th February 2013. Due to this with each other and 24 common discussion deadline, the RFU will not accept the current CRB application RFU staff and officers of point. And the county form after 10th February 2013. the Sussex CB. is looking at staging a The RFU recommends that clubs wait until the new form is Bearing in mind the RFU’s core purpose in rugby day-long version of this event at the end of the season. released before ordering any new application forms. The online development - strengthening our clubs and growing the game “The Amex Stadium, which is on the list of 17 venues shortlisted e-CRB system operated by the RFU will be unaffected by these in the communities round them – RFU staff offered advice and to host matches in the 2015 Rugby World Cup, was a great setting, changes so it is recommended that clubs use the system as its support in the functions of funding & facilities, women’s and providing smart surroundings for a productive evening that was benefits include faster processing speeds, greater control in girls’ rugby, media relations, generic club development and praised for its informal nature.” tracking applications and a far more cost effective process. The club accreditation with Rye RFC receiving their accreditation • For more information contact Mal Chumbley, online system also avoids incorrect information being entered on the night. RFU Sussex RDO, [email protected] 07793 167075. (as frequently occurs on paper applications). If clubs have any The various club representatives – everyone from The clubs represented were: Bognor, Brighton, Burgess Hill, applications that are urgent, these must be submitted online. commercial directors to coaching co-ordinators and chairs Crawley, Crowborough, East Grinstead, Eastbourne, Hastings of mini and youth – were encouraged to provide detailed & Bexhill, Haywards Heath, Heathfield & Waldron, Hellingly, If your club does not operate this system, please advise contact feedback on their clubs’ needs and challenges including praise Horsham, Hove, Lewes, Midhurst, Pulborough, Rye, Shoreham, the Safeguarding Team on 0208 831 7454 and constructive criticism. South Sussex Barbarians, Uckfield, Worthing. or email [email protected] in order to obtain a login.

NOVEMBER 2012 – Touchline 9 CIRENCESTER’S BROTHERLY ETHOS CIRENCESTER Rugby Football Club James and Luke all scoring tries. They has no fewer than four sets of brothers all come from rugby playing families – Will and Rory McCarthy, Luke with dads Gary Hammond (now at and James Fisher, Gareth and Rhys Brockworth RFC) and Neil Owen still Owen, and Alex and Joe Hammond – pulling on a pair of boots most Saturdays. turning out for the first team. All have come through the successful Seven of the eight brothers made the Cirencester RFC youth system, starting starting line-up for their comprehensive with the minis, and all went to Kingshill 39-22 recent victory over Burnham-on- School in the town. Sea at The Whiteway, the only absentee First Team Manager and Club Director being Gareth Owen. As a general of Rugby, Neil Owen, said: “All of manager of Cirencester’s Lidl store , he the boys have come through the club was required to cover a Saturday shift! system and this says so much about the The remaining band of brothers had a Cirencester RFC ethos which is being a significant impact on the game with Alex, local club for local boys.”

ANNIVERSARY GIFT Pic Courtesy WiltsStandard & Gloucestershire FOR HAILEYBURY This year is Haileybury’s 150th anniversary and as part of the celebrations Old Haileyburians RFC made a donation to allow 23 senior players to go on tour to the United Arab Emirates last month (October). On arrival they headed for early morning training at The British School in Al Khubairat. The next day, after an inspirational visit to the Grand Mosque, they took the school team on at the Abu Dhabi Harlequins ground, winning 54-10, including four tries from full back Okemdi Chukwu. Then they headed for Dubai for a fixture against Dubai Hurricaines U18. The fantastic facilities at The Sevens, home of the world famous tournament, made for a special occasion and the squad beat their hosts 39-0. Cultural highlights like visiting the souks, desert safaris and river taxis all added value to the experience, together with additional rugby elements such as some sevens and a memorable beach touch rugby tournament RAF AKROTIRI TENS against Dubai College and Jumeirah College. The Royal Air Force Akrotiri International Festival of Rugby 10s Tournament The tour allowed the players – who aspire to follow in the footsteps of former pupils like will take place between 27 May – 31 May 2013 at RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus. and Chris Wyles of Saracens – to work on their game and to enjoy a range Entry by invitation only with competitions open to men’s and women’s Teams. of cultural experiences broadening their horizons. For further information or to register an interest please contact: Steve Follow Haileybury Rugby on Twitter @haileyburyrugby Williams on 07961 891449. Email [email protected]

MORE JUNIOR WHISTLERS FOR WARWICKSHIRE

Ten more young officials recently passed was sponsored by Coventry, Solihull & their Entry Level Referee Award at Old Warwickshire Sport and was part of the Coventrians RFC thanks to Warwickshire RFU’s v-Rugby project. Each junior whistler Society of Referees , whose young referee will now be given a mentor from the numbers are constantly growing through Warwickshire Society and be appointed to a special course for 14 to 17 year olds. referee at local schools and clubs, who are For the second successive year the course fully supportive of the scheme.

KIT AND RECOGNITION ROLLING IN FOR SOS It’s been a good year for fast growing sports Joint CEO LV=SOS Kit Aid, Will Gompertz BBC charity LV=SOS Kit Aid. Having been shortlisted Arts Editor and Steve Miller Chairman of the but narrowly missing out for environmental PRCA. LV=SOS Kit Aid has already delivered more awards at the prestigious Hollis Awards and rugby and cricket kit this year than the whole of the Global Sports Forum in Barcelona, LV=SOS last year and this year should top 28 tonnes of Kit Aid finally struck gold in the Corporate quality kit sent to 20 disadvantaged countries Engagement Awards held recently in London. and now many deserving projects in the UK. Pictured are Samantha Preece - Corporate Social Responsibility Manager for the leading For more information on the charity visit UK Insurance Company LV=, John Broadfoot www.lvsoskitaid.com

10 Touchline – NOVEMBER 2012 roast, live music and disco as well as the was opened in 2002 which was extended BURNTWOOD opportunity for former players to get recently to incorporate two more changing together again rooms and an entrance hall to the upstairs WANTED CELEBRATION The club was formed in 1972 at the function room. The club has gone from Drill Inn by John Brown, Harry Cooper, strength to strength, with minis through to Paul Bolton ONE RUGBY TEAM Norman Leyshon, Derek Morrish and veterans and earlier this year Burntwood the pub licensee Ollie Moseley. After became only the fourth Staffordshire club STAFFORDSHIRE club Burntwood are a nomadic existence at pubs and clubs to achieve RFU Club Accreditation status. hoping to attract as many former players around the town, Burntwood set up home as possible to their 40th anniversary at its current headquarters on the North • Tickets for the reunion are £10 each celebrations in their Sportsway clubhouse Shore of Chasewater in 1995 in converted from Rob Forsyth on 01543 305997 on November 23. There will be a hog school mobile classrooms. A new clubhouse or at the clubhouse on 01543 676651

Tony Simpson WEST Hartlepool TDSOB Rugby Club had reason to celebrate following the annual Durham County Referees Dinner recently, when club member John Dove received the prestigious Durham County Member of the Year Award. The presentations were made by RFU Chairman Bill Beaumont and Durham President Alan Thompson on what was an especially proud occasion for the club in that the award was being collected by a Technical Day School Old Boys’ member for the second successive year. Last year another TDSOB stalwart, Chris McLoughlin, who had stepped down as County Secretary in 2011, was recognised by the County for his outstanding service. John’s award came in recognition of his work as both the County Disciplinary Secretary, where his contribution has been outstanding for several years, and as Chairman of County Selectors. Yet there is a twist to this story of success for West Hartlepool TDSOB. Although the club has a busy clubhouse and rugby infrastructure, a first XV pitch ready to go with space for two more pitches currently utilised for soccer, it has not fielded its own Rugby XV since 2008, when an ageing XV meant the shortage of players quickly led to the club withdrawing from League football and then not playing rugby. Rugby has been played intermittently at the club over the last four seasons with County and local Cup Finals and County Junior XV games and a number of clubs using the facilities. The Club Committee has been continuing to maintain the facilities, all that is now needed is a XV to grace them.

LYMM, ALEX AND IPF ROYAL NAVY RETAIN NAVIES WORKING TOGETHER Last season Lymm RFC said “This was a very generous COMMONWEALTH CUP player, Alex Bennett, was gesture inspired by Alex and seriously injured in a match the efforts of Lymm RFC. The Royal Navy Senior XV travelled down under resulting in spinal injuries. We are in regular contact recently to successfully defend their unbroken On his road to recovery with Alex and his wife Antonia record as holders of the Commonwealth Cup. Alex has been undertaking regarding not just his recovery The competition dates back to 1997 and was this year projects and events to raise and provision for the future, contested by the Royal Navy, the Royal Australian Navy funds for organisations that but also regarding their and the Royal New Zealand Navy. have helped him and will fundraising efforts and are The Australians lost to the New Zealanders by 13 – 41 continue to assist, including truly grateful for their work to and the latter were beaten by the Royal Navy 21 – 18 the RFU Injured Players support us whilst we are also in a tightly fought encounter before the Royal Navy Foundation. supporting them”. squad, led by inspirational captain POAET Dave Pascoe Through a member of Lymm The photograph shows (RNAS Culdrose), overcame their Australian hosts by a RFC, Brent Charlie North Alex “Bosh” Bennett at the resounding 36 – 10 to secure a sixth consecutive title. Sea production platform has fundraising Bosh Legends Head Coach CPO Ash Coates said “We had to raise our donated £1500 to the IPF. v England Legends game, game to retain the title and beat the home team who gave Said Karen Hood, Community organised at Lymm RFC. Rugby Medical Manager, RFU With him are his wife the Kiwis a good opening match. We couldn’t afford to be Injured Players Foundation Antonia and their children. complacent and had to really dig in to lift the Cup. It was a great team effort.” WHITTON LIONS SEEK ROAR TALENT

Hugh Godwin

Whitton Lions RFC recently celebrated a milestone, playing their first match in the Middlesex Merit Tables a year after Middlesex Rugby ratified the club. Having played a number of sevens tournaments and away friendlies the match also marked the club’s first home fixture at Old Latymerians Sports Ground in Whitton, 10 minutes’ walk from Twickenham Stadium. The club believe this is the first time rugby has been played on the ground, which also hosts cricket and football. Although the result on the day was not what the boys might have hoped for - a 43-0 loss to a very strong Belsize Park 3rd XV - the club have brought together a handy squad, mostly comprised of players either new to rugby or returning to the game after a long break. Whitton Lions are looking forward now to making league rugby a regular fixture. For more information contact: Richard Lennon, Whitton Lions, [email protected].

NOVEMBER 2012 – Touchline 11 SEAN’S RUGBY SKILLS HELP SERVICES CHARITY Paul Bolton SEAN Wright, the RFU Community Rugby Coach for Derbyshire, is using skills developed with the RFU as a coach educator and mentor to help wounded, injured and sick servicemen and women make the difficult transition back into civilian life. Ilkeston-based former gulf war veteran Wright is working as a voluntary mentor for a Forces Charity, by the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen & Families Association to support men and women leaving the army. He is one of 50 mentors nationwide who signed up earlier this year on a pilot scheme being run nationwide. The project is being run in partnership with Army Recovery Capability and has been funded by The Royal Foundation of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, the Forces in mind Trust, ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and the Army Central Fund. Wright has found that some of the skills he has developed in rugby have helped him in his mentoring role. “ The aim is for the mentors to take the hand of the mentees and help them back into civvy street. It’s about helping to make sure that people are going COUNTDOWN FOR RUGBY WORLD CUP Laura Brown Rugby World Cup 2015 is now less than three years away and next month supporters will find out who England who will face with the Pool Allocation Draw taking place in London on December 3. As for the 2011 tournament, the 12 automatically qualified teams will be seeded based on the IRB World Rankings on December 3 and positioned into three bands of four teams. The teams will then be randomly drawn by band into the four pools that will comprise Rugby’s showcase event in England in 2015. Supporters will be able to watch the draw live on www.rugbyworldcup.com. To find out more and to sign up for all the latest news on Rugby World Cup 2015 join The Front Row at www.rugbyworldcup.com/frontrow

in the right direction. As an RFU coach mentor there is a bit more technical advice needed to correct the way coaches do things and ALPHONSI AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE helping them to discover ways of improving. The approach with the army is more sign-posting. I’ve found the experience to be a hugely It will certainly be a day both my mum and I will Julia Hutton positive one and also extremely rewarding. It does put your own little cherish forever. difficulties into perspective.” At Bucking Palace earlier this month receiving the “What makes this honour so special is that Wright is bound by confidentiality agreements which prevent MBE (Member of the British Empire) from HRH, The it does not just recognise my own personal him from identifying his mentee other than to say that he is a Queen, was Maggie Alphonsi, who was named on achievements but that of the England team 40-year-old man, based in Yorkshire who is recovering from a the Queen’s Birthday Honours list this year. - I wouldn’t have received this had it not cancerous brain tumour. Alphonsi has become one of the most well-known been for the hard work and dedication of “We have to feedback on a regular basis on how we are feeling and names in women’s rugby, with her barnstorming the RFU and my England teammates.” we are given a lot of support, practically and emotionally,” Wright performances during the 2010 Rugby World Cup Alphonsi plays a pivotal role in said. “Some of my colleagues are working with people who have earning her fans all around the world. The 28-year- mentoring and inspiring the England been severely injured in combat, including triple amputees, and who old has been honoured for her Services to Rugby. Rugby talent of the future as a RFU are learning to live in very difficult circumstances. That can be quite Making her debut as a 19-year-old against the USA Women’s Rugby Divisional Talent upsetting and we are offered whatever emotional support we need.” in 2003, Alphonsi has now amassed an impressive 63 Development Officer and is also an If the mentoring scheme is successful it could be rolled out across caps and has played in two XVs Rugby World Cups (2006 Ambassador for the 2015 Rugby World Cup in the Army and potentially all armed services. & 2010) where England finished second to New Zealand on England. Her role, alongside other England Rugby SSAFA Forces Help will help anyone who is currently serving both occasions. She also featured in the inaugural 2009 Rugby greats – , and Will in our Armed Forces, as a regular or reservist and anybody who World Cup Sevens, where England lifted the Plate crown. Greenwood – is to promote the tournament’s key values and has ever served as their families. The SSAFA’s motto is: One day’s “Today is a very exciting day,” said Alphonsi. “I cannot actually ensure as many people as possible, and not just traditional rugby service, a lifetime of support believe I am going to Buckingham Palace to receive this award. fans, can be a part of the tournament and its legacy.

The Rugby Football Union wishes to express its gratitude to the following who generously support the game in England

TOUCHLINE Editorial input with pictures to: Touchline Editor, Patricia Mowbray Email: [email protected] Direct Line: 0208 831 6514 Correspondence to: Patricia Mowbray, Touchline Editor, Rugby Football Union, Rugby House, Twickenham Stadium, 200 Whitton Road, Twickenham TW2 7BA. Mailing and Distribution: Enquiries or updates Email: [email protected] Tel: 0208 831 6762 Touchline is published by PPL Group, on behalf of the Rugby Football Union, the national governing body of the game in England. Also available on the RFU website: rfu.com Photography courtesy of Getty and Touchline contributors. Thanks to all individuals, clubs, schools and CBs for contributions. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the RFU. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the RFU or PPL Group. While every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of editorial content, no responsibility can be taken for errors and/or omissions. All trademarks are acknowledged as the property of their respective owners. The England rose is an official registered trade mark of the Rugby Football Union and is the subject of extensive trade mark registrations worldwide.

12 Touchline – NOVEMBER 2012