TOUCHLINE

The Official Newspaper of The RFU February 2015 Issue 176 FESTIVAL OF RUGBY CELEBRATING RUGBY’S BIGGEST YEAR

England Rugby 2015 and the RFU recently The Festival of Rugby is open to any event launched Festival of Rugby 2015, a new hosted between June 10 and October 31 2015 programme enabling events across the UK to that includes a rugby theme or element; this celebrate rugby’s biggest year. can be as simple as a link to a rugby team, The Festival of Rugby provides clubs, song, through catering, visuals or cultural schools, community groups, organisers of elements of the game. sporting events and the wider nation with the Get involved today – details Page 3 opportunity to take part in the celebration of rugby in 2015 and create a true festival feel across the UK. DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER CELEBRATES LEGACY VERITY WILLIAMS The Deputy Prime Minister recently visited Twickenham to mark the start of the biggest year in history for English rugby. The visit came just days before the start of the RBS 6 Nations and amid preparations for the 2015 World Cup. The Deputy Prime Minister visited Twickenham Academy with Business Secretary and Twickenham MP Vince Cable to take part in a rugby training session with some first year secondary school children who have recently taken up the sport via All Schools, joining the programme this season. Nick Clegg was joined by ’s most capped player, , and Lydia Thompson from the England Women’s Rugby World Cup winning squad and took part in a game of end ball and any direction tag. Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said: “We all remember the incredible success of the 2012 Olympics and the 2014 Grand Départ of the Tour de France in . They both left a legacy that the whole country can be proud of. “This year, we have the privilege of hosting the Rugby World Cup and it promises to the biggest ever for English rugby. Not only will it bring billions of pounds to our economy and create thousands JOIN TOUCHLINE ONLINE of jobs but it will leave a lasting legacy, building on the work here at the Twickenham Academy, inspiring youngsters from every background to pick up a ball. “I want to wish the England team the best of luck in the year ahead. Let’s make 2015 another great SUBSCRIBERS sporting year for this country.” Each month Touchline goes straight to the inboxes of around 23,000 online subscribers in RFU Chief Executive Ian Ritchie said: “This is an extremely important year for us. We have an advance of the hard copies being mailed out. Typically, online subscribers get it on the Monday overarching objective to develop rugby in England and the World Cup provides the ultimate shop of the second complete week of each month and the mail out happens at the end of that week. window in order for us to grow the game. We want to be able to look back and say – great we have Here’s how to sign up at www.englandrugby.com using your laptop or desktop computer: more people playing, coaching, refereeing and volunteering than ever before.” Click on the Login button at the screen’s top left corner …Continued on page 2 This takes you to the login screen to enter your username/email and password. There is also a Register Here option if you haven’t already done so. Once logged in, click on your username/email address in the top left corner. Clicking on this takes you to the User Profile page. Click on the Interests & Newsletters tab and select Touchline. Save your preferences. You are now subscribed to Touchline. If you lose your password there is a recover your password facility where you enter your username and get sent a link to choose a new one.

TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 1 DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER CELEBRATES VISIT ENGLAND & RUGBY RUGBY WORLD CUP LEGACY WORLD CUP 2015 Continued from page 1… Ciaran Bird, Managing Director, CBRE Visit England’s ‘Discover Your England’ TV campaign aims to UK, the commercial property adviser raise the profile of English destinations in the year of Rugby “The RFU has committed over and Principal Partner of the All Schools World Cup 2015. £25 million to date, to a seven strand Programme said: “As an employer, it The advert features more than 16 English destinations and legacy project which includes is particularly exciting to be involved includes appearances by former England rugby captain Martin the provision of better facilities, in All Schools. When done right, sport, Corry MBE, England Rugby Head Coach Stuart Lancaster, developing more coaches and with particularly rugby, has the potential to former England women’s Rugby World Cup 2014 winner Maggie All Schools – taking rugby to state increase diversity among its participants Alphonsi MBE and England’s Official Anthem Singer and secondary schools that haven’t and unlock skills that can really set million selling soprano Laura Wright*. previously played the sport.” candidates apart in the job market.” VisitEngland recently welcomed new figures released by Ernst & Young (EY) on behalf of England Rugby 2015, Tournament Organisers, which demonstrates the very significant and positive impact Rugby World Cup 2015 has in store for England. PRINCE HARRY AT IPF The value of the Tournament is set to generate a total output of £2.2billion to the UK economy, with benefits reaching all sectors. This TV advert is one of a number of projects being MARATHON TRAINING DAY VERITY WILLIAMS delivered by VisitEngland to help promote the enormous opportunities for the tourism sector and help stimulate and Prince Harry paid a visit to Twickenham fundraising by the IPF’s Liam O’Reilly. their challenge. The IPF would like to drive economic growth in this area. Stadium to meet runners training for the Prince Harry spoke to the IPF runners wish everyone taking part in this year’s James Berresford, London Marathon. The session was hosted about their marathon preparations and marathon the very best of luck.” Chief Executive of by the RFU Injured Players Foundation offered encouragement as they were put Runners taking part in the London VisitEngland said: (IPF) on behalf of charities involved in the through their paces by a team of Army Marathon to raise funds for the IPF are: “England holds Charities Forum (the collection of charities PTIs led by SSgt Bishop of the 1st Battalion Roger Badman, Elliot Ballam, Penny something truly of which The Duke and Duchess of Irish Guards alongside LCpl Damm, LCpl Blake, Adam Cottingham, father and special for all visitors Cambridge and Prince Harry are Patrons). Crawford and also Cpl Corby of the 7 Rifles. daughter combo John & Lucy Driver, and the arrival of the This is the fourth year running that the Dr Mike England, IPF Director said: “We Jane Fishwick, Ed Gough, Ian Hodges, Tournament this year IPF have held the training event for the are extremely proud to host this event for Rebecca Johnson, Sally Anne Ridge, is an opportunity Charities Forum runners. The 60 runners the fourth year and to have Prince Harry David Shannon, Tom Sproulle and to maximise the there enjoyed workshops on nutrition, join us. There’s been a great atmosphere Andrew Thomas. potential for growth led by England Rugby Nutritionist and camaraderie. We hope that everyone in the tourism sector. Matt Lovell, injury prevention, run by has found today’s sessions useful and http://www.englandrugby.com/ The aim of this England Rugby Head of Physiotherapy can take away some great advice as they news/prince-harry-joins-ipf-london- campaign is to help Barney Kenny, and were given advice on prepare for the final 12 weeks ahead of marathon-runners-training-day/ trigger this growth.” Alongside the words of ‘Jerusalem’ – synonymous with English rugby – the ad features iconic English attractions, including Hadrian’s Wall, Newcastle, Brighton, Yorkshire Dales, Wiltshire, the Royal Crescent in Bath, Tower Bridge, Twickenham and more. Helen Grant, Minister for Sport and Tourism, said: “With action all across the nation the Rugby World Cup 2015 is a brilliant opportunity to go out and discover England. From Exeter’s Sandy Park to Newcastle’s St James’ Park we stand ready to welcome the world and show off the best our country has to offer. The Government’s tourism strategy is delivering record inbound visitor numbers and Rugby World Cup is a fantastic opportunity to further build on this success.” www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcCiqW4LQWk

BRIGHT YOUNG TALENT AT BRIGHTON Some of the brightest young talent in European rugby will go head to head at the Brighton Community Stadium next month with England and France meeting in the U20s 6 Nations Championship. This will be the first ever rugby match held at the Rugby World Cup 2015 venue. Since the inception of the U20s 6 Nations in 2008, France and England have collected all but one title between them. The match will provide another opportunity to showcase many of the England side that won the IRB Junior World Championship title in 2014. England U20s have graduated a large number of players into the senior side in recent years, with Ben Youngs, George Ford and Anthony Watson all having made the transition from the U20s to the senior squad. Tickets are available for the fixture on the Brighton and Hove Albion FC website; www.seagulls.co.uk THE PACK After over 20,000 applications and selection events held in every host city, offers are being made to join The Pack, the 6000 volunteers who will help deliver this year’s Rugby World Cup. The Pack will become the faces of the tournament and will come from the rugby community, recognising those who support and deliver the game week in week out, as well as from the general public, maximising the opportunity to welcome new people to the game. The Pack will be involved in a range of areas at Rugby World Cup 2015, with the majority of roles in spectator services and transport. There will also be specialised roles in other areas including catering, press operations, freight and logistics and workforce operations. Offers will continue to be made until the end of March. RUGBY WORLD CUP TICKETS 2014 saw record demand for tickets for a Rugby World Cup, with 1.8 million tickets sold, including 350,000 through the club network. Fans can still get tickets for some great matches at this year’s tournament, and all remaining tickets are on sale via the official Rugby World Cup 2015 ticketing website;tickets.rugbyworldcup.com .

2 TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 the help of a £10,000 Lead Up & Legacy grant from the RFU. Players and spectators stay longer after matches which has helped the club to attract and retain new players. The enhanced facilities are also being hired out for social events and used as a training venue by the local ambulance service. Bradford Salem are still putting the finishing touches to their £24,000 clubhouse refurbishment, again part-funded by a £10,000 RFU Lead Up & Legacy grant, but have already reported plenty of interest from people who have booked the facility for private parties having seen the improvements. The work, which included a new entrance, re-wiring and installation of new lighting, a media system and dividable folding doors has met with approval from Salem’s members. Southam, who also received a £10,000 Lead Up & Legacy grant towards their £30,000 project, have reported a 15% increase in bar takings since they refurbished their clubhouse. The improved facility is now used by local groups, including a Young Farmers’ Club, and they also have doubled their revenue from bookings, including weddings. Southam will host their first club Summer Ball this year and plan to run a number of With the new facilities clubs are aiming to ensure that the events around the RBS 6 Nations Championship. The improved 100TH CLUB quality of the rugby experience improves for all users of their facilities includes new flooring, a carpeted area, new paving sites, that more players and members are retained and recruited area and refurbished gents toilets. TRANSFORMING and ultimately the financial sustainability of clubs gets stronger. For further information about how the RFU can support “Round three of the RFU’s Lead Up & Legacy Capital clubs with capital projects please contact your local Area SOCIAL SPACES PAUL BOLTON Programme has challenged clubs to develop projects that will Facilities Manager. transform their offer on both match and non-match days for Chard from Somerset have become the 100th members and the local community,” said Ross Baxter, the RFU club in England to benefit from round three of the RFU’s Facilities Investment Manager. KICK OFF TIMES FOR 2015 Lead Up and Legacy funding to transform social spaces. “The response from clubs has been fantastic as they have Chard’s landmark grant of £10,000 will help them to complete bought into incorporating modern interior design principles, QBE INTERNATIONALS a £22,600 project to expand and with the functionality of a rugby VERITY WILLIAMS enhance the clubhouse family club, whilst retaining a focus The RFU has confirmed the kick off times for the two room at their headquarters at on generating an improved QBE International matches at The Park. The bar frontage will commercial return from beginning on August 15. be redesigned, LED lighting increased usage. These matches will see England take on France and Ireland at installed throughout the room, “We have seen some great home at 20.00h and 14.30h respectively. England will also travel which will also be redecorated examples up and down the country away to play France. England’s two QBE Internationals will be and have modern furniture. where clubs have rejuvenated shown live on Sky Sports. Chard hope that the previously tired and ineffective England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster said: “These Test refurbishment will improve the rooms into a facility of which they matches will be vital in our preparations for the World Cup. appearance of the clubhouse can be proud.” To have two QBE Internationals at Twickenham Stadium, in front and allow them to have greater Bradford Salem, Isle of Wight of our passionate fans, will be something to look forward to.” engagement with the local and Southam in Warwickshire QBE is working in partnership with the RFU to support community, leading to greater financial sustainability for the club. are among the clubs who have already benefited from RFU the development of rugby via the QBE Coaching Club. Under Round three of Lead Up & Legacy a total of £1m has been Lead Up & Legacy funding. This initiative aims to recruit and train 2,015 new level two invested into projects valued at £3.7m across the country which aim Isle of Wight have reported increased bar receipts of around rugby coaches by 2015. to transform club social spaces in preparation for England 2015. nine per cent following a £22,000 refurbishment of their bar with

From bake sales to national sporting events, Whether it’s a playing opportunity for youngsters everyone across the country is invited to join The at a local community centre, a rugby themed music COME Festival of Rugby by registering their existing event festival at a school or an exhibition of rugby artwork, or creating an event to be part of the programme. the Festival of Rugby will demonstrate what a truly inclusive sport rugby union is and will showcase the AND JOIN The new website www.festivalofrugby2015.com values of our sport. also allows people to locate and attend events THE FESTIVAL in their area with a postcode search feature “We’re looking forward to seeing a wide range launching later this year. All events registered as of projects in the Festival, with the rugby family OF RUGBY part of the Festival of Rugby 2015 will have access reaching out to more communities to welcome to the Festival of Rugby brand enabling them to many more potential players, spectators and produce items including bunting, t-shirts and followers to our great game.” promotional tools to use at their events. Each event will also have access to their own event page at A number of events have already registered their www.festivalofrugby2015.com, helping to increase interest in the Festival of Rugby 2015, including the awareness and reach of their event. World Wheelchair Rugby Challenge at the Copper Box Arena at the Olympic Park, the massed performance Said England Rugby 2015 Chief Executive, of ‘The Armed Man’ run by the Voices for Hospices Debbie Jevans, “The Festival of Rugby 2015 aims Choir in Kempton Park, and Wallingford RFC ‘Rugfest to create a true festival feeling across the UK 2015’. These highlight the broad range and genre of by offering the opportunity for national, local, events that will feature in the programme, in line with community and individual events to be part of the Festival’s aim to spread the celebration of rugby rugby’s biggest year. Events hosted across the UK far and wide in 2015. between June 10 - October 31 2015 can be part of the Festival of Rugby, simply by registering Event organisers can register interest and find through www.festivalofrugby2015.com out more at www.festivalofrugby2015.com and apply to be part of the Festival of Rugby RFU Rugby Development Director Steve Grainger through the online application system. said: “We are delighted to be supporting You can also hear from and promoting the Festival of Rugby England legends Maggie 2015 and look forward to engaging Alphonsi and Jason Leonard thousands of people across who helped launch the the country in rugby Festival of Rugby 2015 at related activities. Teddington RFC.

GET FESTIVE AT www.festivalofrugby2015.com

TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 3 OLNEY VICTORIOUS IN HONOURING GREAT WAR PLAYERS To honour 16 Olney players who died in the Great Olney lock Jack Sutton reduced the deficit to 5-14 War, Olney RFC’s men took on the 1st Battalion, with an unconverted try forced his way over to open The Yorkshire Regiment and the club’s ladies the home side’s account before team mate Cameron played a match against the British Army Women’s Keenan dotted down making it 10-14 at the break. Development Squad. Olney began gaining more ball from lineouts and The matches at the Recreation Ground marked scrums and, driving over, enabled Tom Orton to the 100th. Anniversary of the ‘Grand Military score another unconverted try, giving Olney their International Rugby Match’ when England played first lead at 15-14. Scotland on 30th Jan. 1915 to support Olney Resident, Another lineout won, set up Olney’s Orton for former Saints captain and England his second try, stretching the home lead to 20-14. international ’ recruitment of sportsmen Olney’s Alex Southerland’s try, with Paul Rider to his own battalion. adding the extras, then gave the hosts a 27-14 lead. Among those at the recent event was Mobbs’ great From another lineout the home side drove nephew, also called Edgar Mobbs. a maul to within 10m of the visitor’s goal line The ladies put in a creditable performance and before Sutherland secured his second try and were only 5-0 adrift at half time, the 27-0 final score Ryder his second conversion, making it an almost largely due to pressure from the Army team late in unassailable 34-14 lead. With the Army side

the match when legs were tiring and gaps appeared desperate to claw their way back and taking every Pic courtesy Gavin Fogg in the defence. opportunity to run the ball, their right wing Pte. In the men’s game the hosts were made to work M. Hoyle crossed the whitewash and converted hard for an eventual 41-21 victory, the Army team his own try making it 34-21. Injury time was leading 14-10 at the break. ticking down when Will Edwards, intercepting a The visitors put the first points on the board through brave effort by the visitors, put the icing on the Pte. R. Waqa who ran in a try, converted by L.Cpl. cake with a try, converted by Ryder, giving Olney Vuagirua, before flanker Pte. Ceaser ran in the second a deserved 41-21 final score of which Mobbs would try, Vuagirua’s conversion making it 0-14 to the Army. have been proud.

Rugby School began the year with a weekend celebrating two exceptional rugby players who made the ultimate sacrifice 100 years ago. A Rugby and a Sedbergh XV met on the Close to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the RONNIE AND FREDDIE death of Palmer (School House, 1903-1908) and Frederick Turner (Sedgwick House, Sedbergh 1902-1907). Freddie and Ronnie captained Scotland/England in 1912/13 and 1913/14 respectively, and faced each other in the final Home International before the outbreak of the First REMEMBERED AT World War. Both were killed by sniper fire on the Western Front within months of each other in 1915. On the eve of the match, which was won 20-19 by Rugby in the final moments, a commemorative dinner was held in Collingwood Hall for both teams and the rugby fraternity of both schools. David RUGBY SCHOOL Ray, former rugby master and military expert, said Grace derived from two footballer-poets. Both Head Masters spoke. Head Chef Aaron Latham’s menu was based on Tommys’ rations. Moving speeches were given by Michael Raw, President of Sedbergh Football Club and School Historian, and by of Scotland and British Lions fame. The match will not only be remembered by the many Old Rugbeians, staff and current pupils who watched but will be immortalised in the media. The Guardian newspaper sent Rob Kitson, their rugby correspondent and video artist, Ravi Deepres), commissioned by Rugby Art Gallery and Museum, gathered footage for a new art film to be screened in Rugby and elsewhere. The match was preceded by a minute’s silence in memory of the fallen and followed by the unveiling of a memorial bench by Simon Penniston, President of the Rugbeian Society, a gift that many future spectators will be grateful for. It was a day of looking back and looking forward, a fitting start to a year when the birthplace of the game will again become a focus for the sporting world.

QUILTER CHEVIOT YOUNG MEN & WHAT PARTNER NORTH OF MATTERS TO THEM ENGLAND SCHOOLS Schools and colleges are being invited to take part in a nationwide survey about 16-18 SEVENS years old males’ performance and image enhancement practices to improve scholarly This year sees the understanding on these issues, which are 27th consecutive currently lacking in research. North of England The current study is partially funded by the Invitational RFU but is being independently conducted Sevens by researchers from Leeds Beckett tournament University and Kingston University. and a new It involves 16-18 year old male adolescents partnership with (sportsmen and non-athletes) and teachers SEEDS OF Quilter Cheviot responsible for school/college sports teams investment managers, who have extensive completing an online questionnaire on interests in the North of England and an topics including knowledge of nutritional important office in Liverpool. supplements, performance and image REMEMBRANCE The event, at Park FC on Sunday enhancement perceptions, experiences 8th March, will see group winners and runners of anti-doping education and the use of up compete in the knockout format that nutritional supplements, over-the-counter As part of the RFU’s Commemoration of the Souvenir poppy, followed by the Cornflower afternoon, after 40 schools play in the morning painkillers and banned substances. many rugby players who gave their lives Bleuet Du France; the poppy/cornflower mix at local grounds. Findings will help inform in the Great War, it has been suggested Alliance for the third and in the final year the Graeme Marrs, Chairman of the Organising targeted education programmes, developed that planting poppy seeds at clubs or in multi-colour Hope. Committee since the tournament began, by the RFU and other key stakeholders. educational institutions would provide a “What we would like to establish fairly said, “We are thrilled to have this deal with The online nature of the project ensures long‑lasting reminder of those who died. quickly, given the ideal time for sowing Quilter Cheviot, which is initially for three that all results are anonymous and at no RFU Great War Commemoration Working these annuals is in April, or alternatively years. Having the backing of a City of point will the identity of any school/college Group member and Council member of in September, is how many clubs, schools, Liverpool Company is deeply satisfying and or individual be revealed. Leicestershire, Malcolm Ross, has been in colleges or universities would like to be greatly appreciated. It will allow us to run the If you would like your school to be involved discussion with the supplier of grass seed to provided with poppies to remember rugby tournament to the standard we expect. in this landmark study, or you have further Twickenham Stadium, Rigby Taylor Ltd. players who died in .” “We have always aimed to bring the strongest questions, please register your interest with “It would be possible to provide different schools within the RFU’s Area North, plus two Dr Lisa Whitaker (Project Research Officer): seeds for each year of the centenary Please email [email protected] guest schools, to Birkenhead for the tournament Tel: 0113 8128651; and Quilter Cheviot’s support will ensure that commemoration, beginning with the red to register your interest. E-mail: [email protected] we can sustain these efforts.”

4 TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 REAL RUGBY STORIES If you know someone who could feature among Real Rugby Stories on englandrugby.com, please email [email protected] FIFTY FANTASTIC SEASONS CHARLIE MORGAN Mike Berry recently turned 67. His 15-year Taunton and laughs about featuring in 1985 in term as President of Bridgwater & Albion RFC Bridgwater’s 34-0 defeat of Exeter – now in the was moving along smoothly – complementing Aviva Premiership. an earlier seven-year stint as treasurer and “I’m normally on the bench now and. I’m generous sponsorship. And an incredible half always shouting at the skipper to get me ROSES ALL century playing for the Somerset side gives on, and occasionally I get loaned out to the a picture of a remarkable man woven into opposition,” says Mike. “I’ll continue to train, Bridgwater’s red, amber and black fabric. but I won’t play beyond this season. The Though now restricted largely to the 50-season mark has convinced me and I’m THE WAY replacements’ bench, Mike is still immersed watching quite a few World Cup games, so I in playing duties as he looks to retire at the wouldn’t be available anyway.” PATRICIA MOWBRAY end of the season. Having made his debut for His message to those looking to take up Mary Tootell was born in Ireland but there are fond of William and I knew his mum, a super the colts in 1964, he has reached an incredible rugby revolves around self-discovery: “the few stauncher England fans. A Twickenham lady. And I remember the first day Lawrence 50 seasons. A scrum half who earns his living spirit and style of the game teaches you so regular for 67 years, for many of them she has Dallaglio came to play at my old club Wasps. as an accountant, he has recorded each of his much about winning, losing and friendships. given the England captain a red rose outside He came with his mother Eileen, another 1,559 appearances across all teams. My second match for the first XV was against the players’ tunnel entrance. lovely lady.” He recalls facing adversaries, such as former Penzance & Newlyn. My opposite number Her first Twickenham visit was at 19 when is another favourite. “When England men Richard Hill and Jan Webster Peter Michell was playing in his 500th she was stationed in Gloucestershire with Bill was captain, Sale’s Tony Bond got his leg and ex-Wales internationals Allan Lewis and game. He was a model of sportsmanship, a the WRAF. “A lovely boy who was playing broken under a pile of Irish players. He was Billy Hullin. The memory of his best individual gentleman, and extremely skilful to boot. He gave me a ticket and I’ve been coming ever taken to the Middlesex Hospital near where I performance, during a 14-0 victory for the first certainly taught me how to play the game since,” says Mary, who at 86 hardly misses a lived and I told Bill I’d visit. On the Monday an XV over Clifton in March 1982, also burns bright. properly. You’ve got to enjoy yourself and home international. Irish nurse told me I could talk him out of the Consulting his archive, Berry can tell you he has make sure everyone else enjoys themselves “It’s the whole thing that I enjoy. It’s such anaesthetic. It seems they set the leg but had filled in for other clubs on 51 occasions. too. I’ve tried to take that approach ever since.” a competitive, strong sport, where people to reset it when he re-broke it thrashing about. “I’ve only been doing things I like doing,” Thanks to Tony and David Pomeroy for their are delighted to win but don’t keep bragging There he was, his leg tied to the cot, coming he explains. “It’s the camaraderie that I love, help in this article. about it. My heart and soul is with the England round with an old Irish woman asking if he meeting up with so many different people over team. People say they want to see a good was alright, after he had been practically done so many years, and so many of them with the game. I just want to see England win. My to death by the Irish! same approach.” Welsh neighbour loves to crow when they “I get into a lot of trouble with the Irish A youngster who turned up to training “in beat us, so seeing England beat Wales at fans when I’m shouting for England with my trepidation” Mike has grown into a hugely Twickenham makes my day!” accent but I don’t care. I love the game. I love respected figure, at home and across the Mary, who hasn’t had a holiday in 30 years, Twickenham, the ground, the people, security surrounding area. “The friendships with invested instead in six debenture seats and who always let me through.” members of other clubs is very prominent. also purchases two tickets thanks to her She is looking forward to the RBS 6 Nations We’ve got to make sure that continues for Vice President status with Withycombe RFC, and, despite some health problems, her dream players today. When Tor in Glastonbury had the club of her husband, who died some would be to see England win the Rugby World their game cancelled a few of their old boys 30 years ago. Cup at Twickenham. “God willing?” I ask. came over and watched our games against “I give away seven tickets to every game. I “I like to keep God out of it,” she says. “I Wells. We had a great afternoon. I know I just love going up to someone and saying ‘Let don’t think he played rugby and, having been can walk in anywhere and be greeted, looked me make your day!’ My neighbour Leah had convent educated, I spent so much time on after. Somerset is a rugby hotbed, with great permission to give a rose to the captain when my knees that I’ve got better knees than a rivalries in a small area – our club, Taunton she was five, now she’s nine, playing touch scrum half. and Weston were all founded at the same time. rugby and coming to the Italy game.” “When I snuff it I want my ashes fed to the Wellington and Bath are a bit older. The clubs It was after her husband died that Mary scrum at Twickenham when England are have evolved and the rivalries with them.” began handing a rose to each captain. She beating Wales. It’s the only way I’m going to Mike jokes that he’ll never forgive his warmly recalls , “I am really get three big, hairy men fall on me!” mother for giving birth to him in neighbouring MATHER RISES TO THE CHALLENGE CHARLIE MORGAN Giselle Mather, is Britain’s most prominent female “I feel so privileged to have been involved in the women’s professional rugby coach as head of London Irish’s Advanced game, the men’s game, with adults and youngsters right Apprenticeship in Sports Excellence at St Paul’s College, across the board,” she says. “You need different approaches Sunbury. There she oversees 16 to 18 year-olds aiming to because there are different skill-sets to deal with and perform on the biggest stage. therefore different needs. It’s fabulous – variety is the “I used to be a teacher at Orleans Park School, so I have had a spice of life.” lot to do with helping people achieve what they want to. That’s On introducing herself to a new group of male players, some something deeply ingrained in me,” she says. “If you develop individuals are initially uncertain. “I don’t think ‘I’m female, the person, you develop the player. Everything has a technical you’re male’. I see it as ‘I’m the coach, you’re my athlete. It’s my and tactical slant, but also a pastoral side to how they respond. job to challenge my athletes and usually, after 20 minutes, any “The boys arrive madly in love with rugby, but might not be preconceptions disappear. entirely sure of the contributions they can make in terms of “I’m still the only one who coaches full time. So from that leadership skills. That is a significant lesson – what their own point of view, it’s an evolutionary process but numbers of values are that they can bring to a team. If they get that right, female coaches are growing. To be excellent, you have to be they will contribute hugely in whatever standard they end up.” able to commit. You just keep breaking down the barriers and Despite a number of injuries, St Paul’s won eight of their 10 gain respect by working hard and doing well.” matches over the course of the Christmas term to finish at the Mather’s family life with her three children, Jasper, Roxy and summit of the southern league. They can now look forward to a Barney means, “the juggle is mind-blowing,” she laughs, having semi-final against either Oaklands or Filton next month (March). coached long into each pregnancy and breastfeeding during Breaking Hartpury’s five-year dominance will be a tough ask her level three qualification. “My male counterparts are often but Mather has quite a record. A World Cup win with England parents as well, but have different roles as fathers – I don’t mean in 1994 punctuated her playing days, followed by 2003 league that disrespectfully, that’s just the way it is. I still have to be a success as a coach with Wasps Ladies before helping the mum and it makes for a very busy life. likes of Emily Scarratt, Vicky Fleetwood, Natasha Hunt and “The elite end of people trying to do the best they can is what Marlie Packer through the age-group system. She then led interests me. Performance under pressure is fascinating. It’s Teddington men to an unbeaten run of 62 matches, including human beings responding to different challenges.” four promotions and two Twickenham cup finals. And Mather is still clearly enjoying those challenges.

TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 5 RUGBY GROUNDSMEN CONNECTED Almost 400 groundsmen have signed up to Membership also brings free access to the brand the RFU’s Rugby Groundsmen Connected new RFU pitch maintenance online training scheme since it launched in October. And modules, available from next month (March). they are firmly recommending that all Free access to local and regional RFU pitch club groundsmen sign up by emailing: maintenance events and workshops will also be [email protected]. available and RFU funding for pitch improvement Members have a direct communication projects will only be available to clubs who have a channel on pitch maintenance issues with groundsman registered with RGC. Twickenham’s Head Groundsman Keith Kent Keith says that the most prevalent problem he and other RFU staff. And all visits by Keith encounters at clubs is waterlogging. He advises will now be channelled to clubs who have a a long-term solution of drainage and a short term groundsman registered. Keith not only keeps fix of aeration – a technical term for spiking. The the hallowed turf up to match scratch but also biggest challenge? “I once found myself walking visits rugby clubs nationwide to advise on the around a farmer’s field with high grass, cow muck upkeep of their pitches. He visited 100 clubs and the cows still on it, which they wanted to use last year and has been to 660 since 2005. as a pitch within two months!”

CHARITY FUNDING FLIES AT CANTERBURY

A Service charity, injured players and a local hospice all benefited from fund raising efforts by Canterbury Rugby Club after a pre-match auction and raffle at the league game against Cambridge raised £2500. The day was dedicated to the memory of a remarkable Second World War flying hero and Canterbury player, Wing Commander Peter Ayerst DFC who died aged 93 in 2014. The former Canterbury centre flew Spitfires and Hurricanes throughout the war, taking part in the Battle of Britain, El Alamein and D-Day. Paul Hewson, the RAFBF’s South of England director said: “Peter would have been very touched by the tribute. He would have approved of the support to the fund which is the RAF’s leading welfare charity and still provides financial, practical and emotional support to members of the RAF family in their time of need, just as it did during WWII.” Local cyclist John Corrigan earlier supported the RFU Injured Players Foundation, covering hundreds of miles on his bike and having collections at Canterbury games to hand over £2,100 to the Foundation. In January a cheque for £500 was presented to the local Pilgrims Hospice, after club players braved the freezing waters in a charity swim at Whitstable. Canterbury’s strong and long lasting association with the armed forces, in particular the Army regiments based in the city, have been reflected in major fund raising days for Help For Heroes, Combat Stress and the Princess of Wales Royal Regiment Benevolent Fund. ENGLAND COUNTIES XV TRAIN AT MYERSCOUGH STUDENTS SECURE PAUL BOLTON ENGLAND Counties XV were using Preston’s Myerscough College as their training base for this month’s (February) match VICTORY OVER against Scotland Club XV at Fylde. The College, who compete in the RFU AASE (Achieving Academic and Sporting Excellence) Under 18 League, have first rate facilities which include a state- PORTUGAL XV of-the-art 3G pitch and a floodlit turf pitch. VICKY CHAN Steve Gough, the director of rugby at the college and a former Fylde, Coventry, Birmingham & Solihull and Preston Grasshoppers fullback, invited the Counties XV, to train there, an offer gratefully accepted. “The college has excellent facilities to accommodate indoor and outdoor training and an all-weather pitch,” said Matt Long, England Counties XV manager.“It is also used an academy base by Sale Sharks and Will Cliff, who toured Canada with the Counties XV, is a former student at the college.” Tickets for the England Counties XV v Scotland Club XV at Fylde on 27 February (7.30pm kick off) from: Fylde RFC, Telephone: 01253 734733 or email: [email protected] Prices are: adult £8.00, concessions £5.00, under 16s £2.00, under 16s accompanied by an adult, free. England Counties XV also play France Federale XV in Perigeux on March 20.

England Students 32 - 16 Portugal 15 Portugal slotted in a three-pointer after the break before a further penalty kick bounced off the post. A break from Hartpury winger England Students sealed a 32-16 victory over Portugal 15, with Alex O’Meara then took the ball deep into Portuguese territory, a 17 newly capped players last month (January) in Lisbon. slick offload sending Vice Captain and Exeter University scrum England Students Head Coach Aaron James said. half Rob Coote over in the corner, making it 18-9. “The squad worked hard all week for this win and I’m On the Portuguese 22, England took a quick tap penalty and pleased they got the result.” University College London flanker Seb Nagle-Taylor found a Minutes into the game, UWE lock Joe Dancer sustained a gap in Portugal’s defence, scoring England’s third try. Cargill concussion, bringing Bishop Burton’s Morgan Eames off the added the extras, making it 25-9. bench. “We lost Joe but adapted well with our lineouts,” said Portugal’s fly half managed to break through England Students’ Assistant Coach Ian Davies. defence to score, and a successful conversion brought the scoreline Leeds Beckett fly half Will Cargill put the first points on the closer. But a smooth offload from Durham University’s Buchan board with a penalty kick. Portugal equalised with a drop goal Richardson to St. Mary’s Jak Rossiter, brought a try converted by before slotting a penalty. Another penalty kick from Cargill Exeter fly half Freddie Gabbitass, making it 32-16 at the final whistle. made it 6 – 6. Hartpury full back Alex Brown then scored the first Forward of the match, voted by the squad’s forwards, was newly try, under the posts, giving Cargill an easy conversion and the capped Nagle-Taylor. Back of the match was another newly squad a 13-6 lead at half time. capped try-scorer, wing Rossiter.

6 TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 YORK LADIES LOVING THEIR RUGBY

CHRIS HUDSON

When Steven Kingston made the tough team, give up their time to play a sport they love decision to call time on a 20-year playing and above all enjoy their rugby. For a coach you career, he was determined that his journey in can’t ask for any more. rugby would continue. And, not wanting to do “York RI Ladies RUFC are currently in their things by half, he opted to move to a new city, first season. They are in a development league start a Masters degree in sports coaching and with a number of more established teams. They sign on for an RFU Level 2 coaching course. have been going from strength to strength It’s a decision he has not regretted and, having and show tremendous team spirit. Their been advised to offer his services within the organisation, their willingness to learn and area of women’s rugby, he has this season been develop as players and the way they are playing coaching both the York RI Ladies RUFC and rugby is truly an inspiration to me as a coach. York St John University Ladies. “The same can be said for York St. John He says: “It has not only been a pleasure University Ladies RUFC. To see a group of coaching such a group of committed and players, many completely new to rugby, turn talented players, it has been a fantastic up every week to training, see them develop as experience in coaching rugby. Every week I see players, enjoy their rugby and be unbeaten in a group of players enjoy their rugby, play as a their league, is fantastic.” GIRL POWER AT DONCASTER Castle Park was taken over last many full teams are available. pointed visiting players and parents month (January) by 157 Under Seeing the bond between to where they needed to be, a real 13 and Under 15 girls playing teammates who have played credit to the club. rugby. The successful event together from a very young age is The home team had a bye in the showcased the rise of girls rugby fantastic but it is equally rewarding first round and watched two of the in the region, teams travelling to see the girls buddy up with evening’s more experienced clubs, from all over Yorkshire and players from other teams if their Castleford and Old Brodleians into from Nottinghamshire to the own club doesn’t have enough for a thrilling contest. Donny Girls’ first inaugural Doncaster RFC girls a squad, simply because they enjoy match was an all South Yorkshire development festival. the game. affair versus Sheffield. Both Organising junior girls rugby For the first time this season teams did themselves proud and festivals is very different to Doncaster Girls had sufficient demonstrated all they had learned organising those for boys when, if numbers to enter a full team and in training this season. a club confirms attendance in all they are delighted with the growth The clubs involved in the likelihood a full team will turn up and of girls rugby at Castle Park. festival were: Sheffield, Ashfield, fixtures can be set accordingly. With The club’s girls arrived early to Newark Wetherby, Richmondshire, the girls a club may enter anything help put out the respect barriers, Goole, Castleford, Old Brods, from a full squad to just one player, welcomed the referees from the Ripon, Barnsley, Selby, WPL and until registration it’s unclear how South Yorkshire Referee Society and and Doncaster.

DEGREES OF NEW SIX NATIONS TROPHY COMMITMENT FOR The winners of the RBS 6 Nations will be lifting a new trophy which replaces the one made for the old Five CALUM CLARK Nations tournament and is six sided, reflecting the six competing nations rather than having the earlier 15 to VICKY CHAN represent rugby’s teams of 15. flanker Calum Clark is starting a Masters degree in Business Administration at the University of Warwick. Having made his 2007 Premiership debut as the youngest ever forward for Leeds Carnegie when a new undergraduate degree at Leeds University, the 25 year old says, “I was fortunate to be at a club which is good for young players and in Leeds, which has two great universities.” “I knew there was always going to be life after rugby. University was another outlet another area of my life. You meet a lot of different people from all over, people I would never have come into contact with playing rugby. It gave me a different dynamic in my life.” Balancing university and a professional rugby career meant, “When it came to exam time I’d be under quite a bit of pressure, but I’ve always been the sort of person who thrives under pressure. I’d sit down with all this work to get through, with 16 hour library days, but I did it. “When I’d done my dissertation though I thought I did a good job, then I was really disappointed with the mark. When I reflected on it I was honest with myself, I could see I hadn’t done enough. You have to put the work in if you want to get results, which is transferable to rugby in that if you want to improve, you’ve got to put in the work and go for it and not kid yourself,” said Clark, whose work rate at the breakdown is crucial for Northampton. “You see more players now that have been to university and maybe develop a bit later than others and come into the game later,” says Calum. “And if you are playing at university, just keep working hard and playing rugby because there are clubs that are growing and looking at university rugby as a place to get talent. It’s a real opportunity for student players.”

TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 7 RFU CHANGES TO ANTI DOPING RULES

A new World Anti-Doping Code, the internationally agreed set of anti-doping rules applying to all athletes or players around the world, includes some significant changes, reflected in the RFU anti-doping regulations. The RFU recommends that all players, coaches and others involved with rugby become familiar with key concepts behind the anti-doping rules.

What Players Need to Know

It’s your responsibility! You are solely responsible for any banned substance you use, attempt to use, or is found in your system, regardless of how it got there and whether there was an intention to cheat FLEXIBLE or not.

What is banned? The Prohibited List is published each FIXTURES January 1st detailing substances that are banned under the anti-doping rules. Peter Shortell reflects on a side would get a bye and the promise that this avoids awarding artificial points for walkovers The list includes (but is not limited to) the flexible fixtures experiment for wouldn’t happen to them again. and better reflects the teams’ relative strengths. following substances: anabolic steroids, human Reserve Leagues This ran for six weeks, during which time the Some clubs wanted to carry forward their growth hormone, EPO, blood doping practices, playing deposit was not at risk. We planned points from this phase to the regular leagues, many types of stimulants and some diuretics. A club’s lowest team will sometimes have only to move on to a regular schedule after the six but we decided against that. The main reason a handful of players available, but next week weeks, but a team could withdraw before then at for keeping a league table was to try and Supplements: Same Risks, Bigger Bans might have more than 15. This plays havoc with no cost other than their entrance fee. match up clubs with similar records when There are anti-doping risks associated with carefully crafted Reserve League or Merit Table Overall we arranged about five matches arranging fixtures. supplement use. Every year athletes fail drug schedules. The situation is exacerbated by the a week for Bristol and seven to nine for Providing referees was a concern. Current tests as the result of poor supplement choices. fact that to produce schedules the organisers Gloucester. On average one game a week was practice for both societies is to provide Remember no guarantee can be given want to know in May how many sides a club subsequently lost to late depredations from appointments a month at a time. However, that any supplement is free from banned expects (or hopes) to put out from September. clubs’ higher sides, a real improvement on last given the relatively small number of matches, substances. At the request of Gloucestershire clubs, we season when in one of the lowest leagues only the appointments secretaries were prepared to You should assess the need: all players instituted a £100 playing deposit forfeited 50% of fixtures were fulfilled. join the experiment. A bigger problem was the should seek suitable advice on their need to when a team did not play a minimum number At the end of the exercise we had 18 Gloucester referees themselves. Some would discover they use supplement products. of matches. Unfortunately, this was good for based teams and 12 Bristol based wanting had a spare Saturday and promptly arrange to Assess the risk: undertake thorough county funds, but frustrating for players. to move on to the scheduled fixtures. That do something else, making them unavailable research of all supplement products you So this season we decided to experiment with meant one Bristol league of 12 teams, and two when the Wednesday fixtures came out. However, are considering taking and wherever a system of flexible fixtures rather than have a Gloucester leagues of ten and eight teams – teams at the lowest levels are used to occasionally possible only use batch tested products (for fixture schedule for Reserve Leagues bottom tiers. the split being based on results so far. providing someone from the club to referee. example those that carry the Informed Sport The county is divided into two major groups of Because of the uneven number of fixtures, we Clubs’ informal feedback was largely positive, assurance mark). clubs, based on Bristol and Gloucester, each with used the same percentage calculation already but they have been formally invited to give their its own Referee Society. In the Bristol group there used in our Reserve Leagues. The number of views before we decide what to do next season. For more information see the RFU were 17 teams, and 21 around Gloucester. league points a club earns is expressed as a The RFU’s 2014 Competitions Review Supplement Statement at: By 23:59 on a Tuesday a club would email percentage of the number they could have earned made the support of lower 15 rugby a main if they had a side available and be allocated if they won every game actually played. If a side recommendation. Work continues across the Checking Medications: pulls out of a match, they lose points, and the fixtures involving other teams applying, with county to put plans in place to implement this. Some medications contain prohibited values are set so that they are always better off reasonable assurance that games would get Please let your local RDO know of any local substances. Before taking any medications playing and losing rather than crying off. This played. If an odd number applied, one unlucky initiatives being trialled. you should check whether or not it is prohibited. This includes both ‘over-the- counter’ medications such as cold & flu remedies and prescription medications from your doctor. Use Global DRO (www.globalDRO.com) to quickly and easily check medications. It’s even optimised for use on a smart phone. CLUB You should then declare your medications if you are tested – an exemption may then MATTERS be required. Sport England’s Club Matters launched on 12 February 2015 as one stop shop for sports clubs, Sanctions: providing support, learning and guidance on all Doping involving a serious doping aspects of running a club whether large, small, substance (such as anabolic steroids, EPO, formal or informal. Rugby clubs can benefit growth hormone or blood doping) will result from: in a minimum 4 year ban for a first offence. Online support including toolkits, quick There is now less leniency for carelessness reference guides and e-learning modules. – you are more likely to receive a 2 year ban Club Matters mentoring offers flexible and for unintentional doping (such as through personal support through online, group and one use of a supplement containing banned to one sessions. ingredients). Club Views allows clubs to ask members what PLENTY OF FIRE they think about the club with pre-written or To get any reduction in sanction below 2 bespoke questions. years, players must have substantial proof Club Matters workshops are free, short that they were not at fault or intending to training sessions delivered across the country BUT NO RESCUE cheat. by experts in a range of specific areas. Club Improvement Plan helps clubs of all sizes STEPHEN GREAVES Further Information on the 2015 Code at and at all stages of development to establish Last month (January) four fire fighters from Hertfordshire, joined teammates in the UK Fire and www.ukad.org.uk/2015-code where they are performing well and where they Rescue Services rugby section at Stourbridge RFC to take on close rivals The British Police. can develop. Steve Greaves (Royston Fire Station and Royston RFC) and Joe Shaw (St Albans Fire Station For general anti-doping information and Clubmark is the universally acknowledged and Letchworth Garden City RUFC) played pivotal roles at second row and No.8, crashing up the resources please visit: cross sport accreditation scheme for community middle, creating space for fly half Tom Backman (St Albans Fire Station and Old Verulamians RFC) www.englandrugby.com/governance/ sports clubs. and enabling him to orchestrate the first try, with winger James Watt (Stevenage Fire Station and anti-doping To discover more about Club Matters and Datchworth RFC) crossing the line for the team. keep track of progress check out the blog: Many tries followed, all from the British Police, who emerged 70-5 to the good, the game closing If you have specific queries please contact www.sportenglandclubleaders.com/clubmatters under floodlights. As the picture shows, the gents from Herts left smiling in the face of defeat. the RFU Anti-Doping Department via Email: [email protected] The next fixture for the UK Fire and Rescue Services XV is versus the French SDIS (Service [email protected] Twitter: @ClubMatters Départemental d’incendie et de Secours) on the 6th June 2015 in .

8 TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 RUCKLEY’S TRYFEST INTERACTIVE GAME Win a chance to be pitchside at Twickenham Stadium as Ruckley’s guest! SUZI MURRAY The RFU has launched its first interactive Laura Marchant, Brand Manager RFU, said, video game Ruckley’s Tryfest starring official “Ruckley’s Tryfest brings rugby onto a new ambassador for children’s rugby, Ruckley, the platform to increase engagement with fans in a ARMY REDS HAVE popular animated and excitable English bull new way. Ruckley embodies the RFU’s core values dog with an endless love of rugby. To celebrate reflected throughout the game. Ruckley has made the launch the RFU are giving fans the chance a big impact since joining England Rugby in CAMBRIDGE SINGING to be Ruckley’s VIP guest pitch side during the 2013 and we are delighted to be building on this England v France RBS 6 Nations game. success for the benefit of our fans”. Ruckley’s Tryfest is an action-packed, To enter the competition simply download THE BLUES high-speed game of skill and strategy using Ruckley’s Tryfest for free from the iTunes touchscreen technology. It requires players to App store and tweet @EnglandRugby using Army 62-10 Cambridge University 10 select and place characters with unique skills #WINRUCKLEY along with your answer to the onto the rugby field and pass the ball between simple question – What is Jack’s special move? The Army opened their 2015 campaign with a mixture of senior and new players to beat them, scoring as many tries as possible! Competition closes on 9th March, for further Cambridge 62-10 at Aldershot on 28 January. The game, developed by renowned information on how to enter and full terms and Army Senior Coach Andy Sanger declared himself “well satisfied with the performance and animators, Sunrise, encourages players to think conditions visit www.englandrugby.com/ particularly the newcomers. Army life can be turbulent and it is vital to give young players strategically in selecting and placing characters, Ruckley an opportunity early in the year,” he said. “There are tough matches against Premiership learning to identify and use their special To download Ruckley’s Tryfest today visit clubs coming up. They will provide a real taste of what it takes to pull on the Red jersey at abilities to achieve victory in 40 levels. itunes.com/apps/ruckleystryfest Twickenham to face the Navy on 9 May”.

BARKERS’ BUTTS PROP IN RDO FRONT ROW PAUL BOLTON MATT Wooldridge has been appointed the new RFU Rugby Development Officer for South Warwickshire. Wooldridge, who plays at prop for Midlands One West club Barkers’ Butts, took up his new role this month (February) moving SHEFFIELD UNIVERSITY SUCCESS from the role of RFU Community Rugby Coach in Birmingham. He will work as part of the team of Rugby HANNAH HIRST Development Officers in Area Four, which covers East Midlands, Eastern Counties, Sheffield University rugby club celebrated the the second half and our fitness really showed.” “For 2015 we look to train as hard as we can Leicestershire, Notts, Lincs & Derbyshire and new year having finished 2014 undefeated. “A lot of hard work went on behind the and keep grinding out results. We are under Warwickshire, under Area Manager Alan Royer. “Going unbeaten for the year was an scenes. There were some gruelling early no illusions about the quality of teams in Wooldridge’s role is a new one and he will take unbelievable feeling,” said club captain Matt morning fitness sessions and a lot of time our league.” over the responsibilities previously held by Stuart Baldwin, “A huge amount of hard work has spent on the training paddock.” Matt added, Could they remain unbeaten two years Eades who combined his South Warwickshire been put in by the boys to achieve the wins.” “It’s the gritty stuff that no one sees that running? “It would be an incredible role with that of RDO for Worcestershire. Eades Sheffield finished the year in Newcastle with wins you games: endless defensive drills and achievement, but it’s not something you will now form a new two man RDO team in North a 33-3 win, despite the conditions. “It was an making sure everyone knows exactly what think about as a player. That’s something Midlands with Scott Sturdy. absolute howler! It was hailing before kick off. their role is within the team. I will leave to the coaching staff to worry Wooldridge was born in Coventry and There’s nothing like some sideways hail to “Our new head coach Thiu Barnard, along about. It’s going to be an interesting second educated at Coundon Court School in the city. focus the mind on a Wednesday afternoon!” with Si’ Vardy and Jenn Dick at Sport Sheffield, half to the season to say the least! We’ve got He studied at Wolverhampton University and is said Baldwin. have helped put in place a strong performance plenty of room for improvement and that’s an RFU Level Two Coach and Coach Educator. “We were pretty satisfied with the culture to promote some positive competition what keeps driving us forward as a group.” Matt Wooldridge can be contacted at: performance though as we came on strong in between the boys playing for their shirts.” [email protected]

TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 9 TWO DAYS OF TOP SCHOOLS RUGBY AT ALLIANZ PARK PAUL BOLTON Allianz Park, the home of Aviva Premiership Schools Under 18 Vase semi-finals at 11am and club Saracens, will stage a feast of top schools 1pm followed by the NatWest Schools Under 18 rugby over a full weekend in March. Cup semi-finals at 3pm and 5pm. The north London ground has again been The following day, Sunday 8 March, it will chosen as the venue for the semi-finals of be the turn of the NatWest Schools Under 15 the four NatWest Schools competitions but, competitions with the Vase semi-finals at 11am in a change to the traditional schedule, the and 1pm and the Cup semis at 3pm and 5pm. organisers have decided to play all the matches Entry and parking to the semi-finals will over two days rather than four. be free. The fact that Allianz Park has a 4G rubber Winners of all the semi-finals will progress to crumb pitch, the first in professional rugby in NatWest Schools Finals Day at Twickenham England, means that there is none of the wear Stadium on Wednesday 25 March, where the and tear of a turf surface and so the ground can Under 15 Vase final will kick off at 11am, the stage four matches in a day. Under 15 Cup final at 12.30pm, the Under 18 Saturday 7 March will be the NatWest Schools Vase final at 2pm and the Under 18 Cup final THREE NEW TEAMS Under 18s semi-finals day with the NatWest at 3.40pm. LAUNCHED IN YORKSHIRE CHRIS HUDSON Rugby union is booming across Yorkshire however, with Kris reporting that two other right now – and nowhere is that more evident clubs have launched new teams since the than at upwardly-mobile Yarnbury. turn of the year. Wetherby, a club who were The Horsforth-based club created history last struggling to field even a 1st XV as recently as season when they reached the final of the RFU the 2011-12 season, have recently relaunched a Senior Vase at Twickenham, eventually going Vets side to complement their flourishing firsts down 20-13 to Gloucestershire side Newent. and seconds. That achievement appears to have been a A “one club” approach which has seen major catalyst for growth, with the club now the junior and senior sections working able to field five adult teams. On 10 January much more closely has been one factor in they broke a club record as they had 103 the transformation, along with a complete players representing them across the region on refurbishment of the clubhouse. An ambitious the same day. Such is their ambition that they five-year strategy was launched in 2012, but the now hope to be able to field six sides regularly club are already ahead of schedule. by the end of the season. Meanwhile, Moortown had a third team out “Yarnbury have a lot of clubs around them in for the first time ever on Saturday 1 February the Leeds area,” said Community Rugby Coach – ironically facing Yarnbury’s fourth team on (CRC) Kris Stafford, who has worked closely their big day. with the club. “There is a lot of competition for The club’s success has been built on a huge players, so the fact that they had 103 available upgrade of facilities which has transformed to play is quite an achievement.” the experience they can offer to prospective They are not alone within the Central players. The clubhouse has been renovated and Yorkshire area when it comes to growth, the pitch improved beyond recognition. GIRLS MOVE TO CONTACT IN SHROPSHIRE

Over the past couple of months year 8, 9 and 10 girls from secondary schools across Shropshire have been taking part in transition events to take them from playing tag rugby to contact. These sessions have been delivered by RFU members of staff and club volunteers who took the girls through an introduction to tackling, scrummaging and 1 v 1 rucking. The girls then took part in a festival to put their newly acquired skills into practice with each event being linked to the local rugby club with representatives there to assist with coaching and to promote girls rugby at their club. So far 135 girls have taken part in the transitional events with a fourth planned to take place in Shrewsbury in March. Huge amounts of enthusiasm have been shown by the girls. Teachers who have attended the events have also commented on how fun and engaging the sessions have been and that they would love to participate at a club near them. Shropshire will be holding a Girls Pitch Up and Play event at Shrewsbury RFC on Sunday 1st March starting at 1pm.

For more information contact [email protected]

10 TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 TIGERS AT LEICESTER’S VARSITY HANNAH HIRST Leicester Tigers centres Terrence Hepetema and Anthony Allen’s Leicester varsity coaching has brought good natured rivalry. The approaching varsity game between the University of Leicester and De Montfort University has seen Hepetema helping out at De Montfort, while Allen has been at the University of Leicester. “We’re running some sessions for the guys and doing some full coaching” says Hepetema. “It’s a bit of fun and I’ve been looking at maybe going into coaching after retirement so it has helped with that too.” Allen adds, “I thought the opportunity seemed like fun and a chance to have a go at coaching. Something good for the CV too! Any experience is good experience and the uni boys get plenty out of it as well.” Hepetema adds, “I’m learning a lot from it. It’s non-professional and most of the guys are there to enjoy it. It’s helped me learn how to simplify certain things we do for Tigers and break drills down into step by step guides. It’s great getting back to the basics of rugby!” With Allen coaching down the road at the University of Leicester, “There is a bit of rivalry seeping through,” says his team mate. “The boys at De Montfort are pumped for the game and it would be nice for me to get one up back at the training paddock!” Allen adds, “It’s all friendly banter really and a bit of a wind up. When it comes to game day the boys will be up for it and it may get a bit more serious but really it’s a bit of fun.” So was university something they ever considered? “Yes. I did a bit of studying while at the Waratahs and got a diploma in business but it would be good to get a higher qualification. I’m weighing up options. It’s definitely still an option for me,” says Hepetema. Fancy dress is, of course, de rigeur in university rugby, so what would they choose? “I’d probably be a pirate,” says Terrence. Allen agrees, “Yes, with a few scars it would fit nicely. I’d look good as a pirate!” There will certainly be some swashbuckling at the varsity game at Welford Road on the 18th March and asked why they think their team is best the Tigers coaches tell us because they just ARRRRRRRR! VITALITY ENGLAND DEAF TEST WALES PAUL BOLTON Wales Deaf 18-5 England Deaf England’s points came with the final play of the THE HEALTH match when Hartpury College centre Cameron ENGLAND produced a vastly-improved Roberts broke through to reward a period of performance which forced Wales to work sustained pressure with an unconverted try. The hard to retain the Broadstreet Cup at Cardiff sin-binning of lock David Brake had reduced INSURER IS RFU’S Arms Park. An injection of youth into a squad Wales to 14 men for the closing stages and that included six new caps, five of them in the it would have been seven points for England starting 15, made England more competitive Deaf had Hitchin’s Ollie Fountain’s long range than 12 months ago. conversion attempt not struck an upright. NEW PARTNER SUZI MURRAY Said head coach Sean Fletcher, “Getting beaten England were also dangerous at the start of in Cardiff is horrible. But the positive is that it the match but couldn’t find a way through a The RFU has announced a new partnership a progressive market leader in the promotion was 36-3 here last year and now were are 18-5. We solid Wales defence and had only a missed with leading health and wellness insurance of the health and wellness amongst its should have had another try and a true reflection penalty from scrum half Ollie Fountain to show provider Vitality, which becomes England members. The RFU is committed to growing would have been 18-10 for me. But it’s a massive for their efforts. Rugby’s first Official Wellness Partner. the game across all levels from grassroots step from where we were at this time last year. Wales soaked up the pressure and made the As part of the new partnership with the clubs right through to the professional level. “The difference is that we are competitive in most of their own attacking chances when they RFU, Vitality will receive various assets Our new partnership with Vitality will enable our defensive and attacking lineout and in our finally broke from defence with Adam Brake, their including match day branding rights at the RFU to continue to deliver on investing mauling, we have now got to find the gel between captain and number eight, being driven over from Twickenham Stadium, experiential and back into the game.” the forwards and backs, which will come with a line out. A penalty from full back Celyn Ashton corporate hospitality rights, as well as the Neville Koopowitz, CEO of Vitality, said: more games together. We prepare better, we get stretched the lead to 8-0 by half-time and another ability to utilise both England men and “We believe in the power of sport to help inspire together as frequently as we can. The Welsh guys forward-dominated try from replacement prop women elite players in activating the partnership. people to live a healthy life, which is why we came to me and said it was the most competitive Richard Jones and an Ashton conversion and Sophie Goldschmidt, RFU Chief partner with leading sports figures, teams and game we have had for a long time. penalty effectively decided the contest. Commercial and Marketing Officer, said: events to help us share the Vitality message. “In the last 20 minutes we were dominant and Henley Hawks number eight Jake O’Leary “We are delighted to welcome Vitality to our We are excited to be the new Official Wellness that is the corner we needed to turn. I am as proud impressed on his debut and supplied England partnership family. There is natural alignment Partner of England Rugby – our latest move in of that last 20 minutes as I was the first 20 minutes. with plentiful line out possession throughout between RFU and Vitality, a brand that is our goal of changing health insurance for good.” If we can put the points on the board early on, and Roberts formed an encouraging centre which we should have done, it’s a different story.” pairing with Penryn’s Ben Jordan.

FOR PENNY

Portsmouth Rugby Club recently presented a supporter and, despite being a wheelchair cheque to the Rowans Hospice to fondly user, was at every first team game, home and remember Penny Dixon, the wife of club away, even if it meant being pushed across a stalwart Jim. Penny was a great Portsmouth field to watch.

TOUCHLINE – FEBRUARY 2015 11 SANDY PARK TO HOST RUGBY WORKING TOGETHER EUROPE GRAND PRIX 7s NICOL McLELLAND WITH INCLUSIVE The third leg of Rugby Europe’s 2015 Grand PRIX 7s series will take Olympic qualification on the line, the weekend promises to be an place at Sandy Park, Exeter. Following the Manchester leg of the 2014 important competition for the seven-a-side game. RUGBY SESSIONS series, the RFU is again hosting the final stage of the competition, run Should England fall outside the top four of the HSBC World Seven by Rugby Europe, over the weekend of July 11-12. Series, they will need to win the Grand PRIX 7s series – or the Final Inclusive rugby sessions for young England won the Manchester leg in September 2014, at AJ Bell Olympic Qualification Tournament – to compete in the Rio 2016 people aged 14 to 25 are up and running Stadium, beating France in the final of the Cup competition and with Olympic Games. in Haringey. In a ground breaking Joining home unions England, Scotland and Wales in the Grand partnership, the Access Sport Ignite PRIX 7s series, which kicks‑off in Moscow on June 6, are Russia, Spain, Programme is partnering with Haringey Belgium, Georgia, Portugal, Germany, Italy and Lithuania. Rhinos RFC and London Skolars RFL to After the second leg of the tournament in Lyon on June 13, the series deliver inclusive sessions for young people travels to the home of . A Rugby World Cup 2015 venue, Sandy with varying disabilities. Park is ideally placed in a South West rugby hotbed, bringing supporters At the brand new, floodlit, 3G pitch from around the region, and further afield, to enjoy international rugby at White Hart Lane Community Sports ahead of the World Cup kick-off. Centre, every Wednesday between 4pm RFU Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer Sophie Goldschmidt, said: and 5pm coaches from both Rhinos and “Our thanks go to Rugby Europe for inviting the RFU to host for a second Skolars will deliver sessions which ensure time, and to Exeter Chiefs for agreeing to stage the weekend at its state-of- all participants, regardless of ability, enjoy a the-art stadium.” high quality, inclusive playing experience. Said Helen Rayfield, Haringey Rhinos’ Director of Youth Rugby, “The Rhinos are thrilled to be part of such a great initiative which is part of our ongoing commitment to ROCHDALE APPEAL develop rugby in Haringey.” The sessions will focus on fun and enjoyment, welcoming young people who FOR HELP FOR just want to give rugby a try, and those that have tried it, liked it, and want to play again. PLAYER’S FAMILY For further information Helen Rayfield, Haringey Rhinos Rochdale RUFC are asking the rugby community “Tom played at Rochdale from the minis [email protected] to help the family of a player who died just after and juniors, going on to represent the club in his first child was born. Tom Thornton, a 25-year- the senior teams. His dad Kevin also played old Rochdale player was recently diagnosed rugby at Rochdale until donning the orange with terminal bowel cancer. He and his fiancé shorts worn by 50+ players a couple of seasons Chantelle were married and baby Maxwell was ago. He and his wife, Vanessa, and their sons born only a month before Tom died. Tom and Sam have long been a big part of our Said Rochdale’s Patrick Bradley, “As other clubs family-oriented club. can imagine, at their age Tom and Chantelle were “We are hoping that the extended rugby family not prepared for this tragic situation and we, as a will help in our appeal. Tom was a great team club, are trying to help financially with Maxwell’s mate and club player and we would hugely short and long-term needs. We have set up a appreciate any help in easing his family’s trust fund and are having a benefit dinner in the financial burden.” family’s name on the 27th February. To get in touch email [email protected]

Knowing him as I do, I have an idea of “At this point in any competition, you have to expect that THE how they will play and it will be a very any team you come up against is going to be pretty tidy. interesting contest.” You really want a home game at this point – unfortunately IVYBRIDGE WAY Ivybridge are in unchartered territory, we weren’t lucky enough to get one, so it’s going to be a very with Round 6 exits at the hands of tough challenge.” ROSS MARTINOVIC Millfield School in 2009 and 2012 Success on the rugby field is no novelty for Ivybridge – the When Bob Crooks met Nick Buoy, representing the 2,250-pupil state school’s college’s U18 side has reached the final of both the RFU AASE had just set the World Cup in previous longest runs in the competition. League and the Sanix World Invitational Tournament in Japan South Africa alight and was Crooks’ side finally overcame the in the past five years. In addition, the likes of Stuart Hooper – England’s fly half. famous sporting hotbed this year, the current Bath captain – and England Saxons duo Dave Ewers Two decades later, Crooks – who leaving the former Cambridge and and Sam Hill emerged from the school’s Rugby Academy. coached Buoy at Saracens – will be Plymouth Albion coach confident that Such achievements have attracted talented boys from across reunited with his former protégé after their 420-mile round trip along the South the county and Crooks is eager to develop an ‘Ivybridge way’ Andrew paired Crooks’ Ivybridge Coast can be a fruitful one. that is already ingrained in the players once they reach the Community College with Buoy’s Brighton “In the South West, Millfield are the 1st XV. College in the NatWest Schools U15 Cup benchmark. I have huge respect for Said Crooks, who has worked previously with Whitgift School quarter-final draw last month. the way that they play their rugby,” he and John Fisher School, “We want to spend five years with the “I used to coach Nick when he was in the said. “If we get to the same stage or Year 7s so that they understand our philosophy and approach Saracens U21 team,” said Crooks. past them, we can consider that we’re before they’re involved with the 1st XV. And I believe that what Rob Andrew who “He’s a fantastic guy and I’m very much doing a fairly good job with our junior the AASE League has done for rugby in the state sector will made the draw looking forward to meeting him again. rugby programme. eventually filter down to the lower levels.”

THE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING WHO GENEROUSLY SUPPORT THE GAME

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: englandrugby.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 RFU Rose and the words ‘England Rugby’ are official registered trade marks of the Rugby Football Union and are subject to extensive trade mark registration worldwide.

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