Seizing the Opportunity

May 2013 Issue 157

The Official Newspaper of The RFU SEIZING THE OPPORTUNITY THE RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION STRATEGIC PLAN 2012/13 – 2016/17 The publication this month (May) of the RFU’s Strategic Plan will guide the preparing this five-year Strategic Plan. If we successfully deliver game in England to beyond Rugby World Cup 2015. Its five strategic priorities the strategic priorities and are operationally efficient in all aspects aim to help the Union achieve major goals and to operate as a world class of governing our sport, we can achieve our aspirations, create a business and governing body. foundation for the future and truly become a Union at the top of The strategic priorities include: building the RFU’s brand, reputation and relationships; its game.” establishing rugby union as a sport for everyone; optimising the Union’s revenue for RFU Board Chairman Bill Beaumont, added, “Our Board reinvesting in the game; securing success for representative teams and delivering the most now reflects wide-ranging experience and expertise and inspiring Rugby World Cup ever. includes Independent Directors from outside our sport. The new Strategic Plan’s ambition, in terms of significant revenue and corresponding With our Council members, support staff and volunteers, we 1 investment in the game, includes a clear intention of investing over £/3 billion into rugby at will work to deliver this Plan, which will guide our able and all levels and a 32% increase in grass roots spending compared to the previous five years. enthusiastic workforce through the most exciting period for the Said Chief Executive, Ian Ritchie, “A great deal of consultation and hard work has gone into game in our lifetime.” Continued on page 3… Ian Ritchie

NEW SCRUM LAWS TRIAL FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS JOIN THE FRONT ROW AT www.rugbyworldcup.com/frontrow From the start of next season there will be a global trial of the “crouch, bind, set” scrum engagement sequence, aimed at enhancing player welfare by reducing impact on engagement. RUGBY WORLD CUP 2015 The International Rugby Board Council’s approval of the sequence, on player welfare grounds, comes with a call for game-wide commitment from law-makers, match officials, VENUES AND SCHEDULE coaches and players, to ensure a fair and positive attitude in dealing with scrum issues. England Rugby 2015 (ER 2015) and Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL) recently announced the full list of match venues and published the Implementation follows extensive evaluation of the sequence Rugby World Cup 2015 match schedule. during the recent IRB Pacific Rugby Cup, which showed the The 13 venues and host cities are: Twickenham Stadium (London), Wembley Stadium (London), Olympic Stadium (London), Millennium potential for a more stable platform leading to fewer resets and Stadium (Cardiff), Manchester City Stadium (Manchester), St James’ Park (Newcastle), Elland Road (Leeds), Leicester City Stadium (Leicester), more successful scrums. Villa Park (Birmingham), Kingsholm Stadium (Gloucester), Stadiummk (Milton Keynes), Brighton Community Stadium (Brighton) and Sandy Props will now be expected to crouch on the referee’s call, Park (Exeter). bind using their outside arm after the referee has called “bind”. Taking the game to ten cities across the country enables England Rugby 2015 to showcase the game to a large audience countrywide. The The front rows will maintain the bind until the referee calls match schedule will see 25 matches played in dedicated rugby venues, seven in multi-event stadia and 16 in football venues, with over two “set”. At that point, the two packs will engage. million opportunities for fans to engage with one of the world’s most recognisable major sports events. The specialist IRB Scrum Steering Group, which includes The tournament will open at Twickenham Stadium on Friday September 18, 2015, where England will face Oceania 1, confirmed at the Unions’ scrum experts, recommended the new sequence to the close of the qualification process in 2014. In addition to a selection of pool games, Twickenham Stadium will also host two quarter-finals, the IRB Council after extensive testing and analysis at all levels of semi-finals and the final on October 31. Two quarter finals will also be played in Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium and the bronze final will be the game within the IRB-funded Scrum Forces Project run by the hosted at the Olympic Stadium. University of Bath in conjunction with the RFU. The venue selection took into account geographical spread, sporting and facilities criteria, support from host cities, and capacity IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “The scrum is a requirements to deliver the best possible platform for a fully engaging world class tournament for fans and teams. fundamental and dynamic part of our game. It is important that England Rugby 2015 also launched the vision for Rugby World Cup 2015 outlining the tournament as a celebration of rugby and its unique Continued on top right page 2… values, exciting and inspiring our nation and the world to play and support the game. Continued top left of page 2…

1 Continued from page 1… England Rugby 2015 Chief Executive, Debbie Jevans, said: “The world can now start planning for Rugby World Cup 2015. We have Continued from page 1… brought the tournament to life, announcing the match venues and we continue to promote the best possible player welfare the full match schedule. In less than two and a half years’ time, standards and this trial process is about putting players first we will be welcoming the world to England and to a celebration and delivering a reduction of the forces on engagement , of rugby, played in a range of atmospheric stadiums right across which could have significant positive effects on long-term the country. Rugby has so much to offer and, over the next two player welfare.” and a half years, we will be working hard with RWCL to deliver a The IRB will also instruct referees to ensure that the ball tournament which celebrates the unique values of rugby and excites does not enter the tunnel unless the scrum is square and and inspires the nation and the world to play and support the game. stationary and that a straight throw-in is strictly policed. The countdown to 2015 has begun in earnest and we look forward Lapasset added: “The implementation of the revised to welcoming the world to England in 2015. sequence alone is not about overcoming all the challenges “We are very grateful to all the cities and venues who have been of the scrum but it is a forward step. There is a collective part of the selection process for Rugby World Cup 2015. The support responsibility for coaches, players and administrators to make and interest shown by Coventry, Bristol, Derby, Southampton and the scrum a positive, fair and, above all, safe contest. Match Sunderland has been excellent and, whilst they have not been officials will be stricter when refereeing the existing law.” selected to host, we will continue to build upon the relationships The RFU will be providing a game-wide educational forged throughout this process to ensure that these cities will still process, featuring coach and match official workshops, from play a part in this truly nationwide tournament.” July so that everyone is fully informed for the new season. RWCL Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “Rugby World Cup 2015 is The five Law changes currently being trialled and the the opportunity to engage new fans and to grow rugby around the trial change to television match official protocols will be world in order that more men, women and children may experience considered by IRB Council at its annual meeting in 2014. This the sport and its character-building values. It is set to be an new scrum engagement trial will be before Council at its exceptional event for the teams, the fans, the host nation, and the interim meeting the same year. Any amendments approved continued development of rugby worldwide.” will be in place a year ahead of Rugby World Cup 2015. Minister for Sport and Tourism, Hugh Robertson commented, The Scrum Steering Group includes RFU Community Rugby “Rugby World Cup in 2015 is another great global sports event Medical Director Dr Mike England; RFU Area Manager, coming to the UK. It has the full backing of Government and will be Gavin Williams and Dr Keith Stokes, of the University of Bath fantastic for rugby in this country, encouraging more people to get Malcolm Wharton research team, with technical input from England scrum involved. There is also a great tourism opportunity to make the most expert Graham Rowntree of, with matches being played across the country.” RFU BOARD Said Dr England: “The RFU puts a high priority on the RFU Chief Executive Ian Ritchie and England Head Coach Stuart welfare of our players at all levels of the game. As with our Lancaster welcomed the venue selections and the accompanying APPOINTMENTS recent Headcase education programme about concussion opportunities to grow the game across the country. injuries; this announcement today is an excellent example of Said Ritchie: “This is a very exciting next phase in the lead up The RFU Council recently approved how our scientific research into injury prevention can help to hosting the tournament in 2015, which we hope will have a the Nominations Standing Committee’s inform developments in the laws of the game in a sensible huge impact on the game in England. Not only is there a wide recommendations for Board positions with effect way – without affecting the spirit in which rugby is played. geographical spread of venues, enabling more people to watch from the Annual General Meeting on 14th July The RFU is proud to be a key part of this work on the scrum rugby than ever before, but it is truly a national event that the game engagement technique as part of its wider programme of 2013 until the 2014 AGM. and the country will feel a part of. We need to seize the opportunity player welfare and safety initiatives.” Malcolm Wharton CBE becomes Chair of the to bring the whole country together, to inspire a new generation of More information from www.rfu.com/scrumtrial players, supporters and volunteers from new communities across Community Game Board; Peter Baines continues as the length and breadth of the land.” Chair of the Governance Standing Committee; Rob Lancaster added: “Now we know the shape the tournament will Briers, John Douglas and Peter Whiting continue as IRB GLOBAL take, it brings everything into a sharp focus with less than two and elected Council members on the Board of Directors; John a half years to go before the Rugby World Cup kicks off on English Spencer continues as IRB Representative on the Board soil. We always get terrific support at Twickenham Stadium so we’re of Directors and Board Chairman, Bill Beaumont CBE, LAW TRIALS looking forward to the three big games there as well as playing at continues as the other IRB Representative. the Manchester City Stadium against the eventual play-off winners The other members of the Board of Directors are: ONLINE SURVEY which will conclude our Pool A matches. Ian Metcalfe as Chairman of the Professional Game You can have your say on the IRB’s proposed Law “Taking England to the North is something we’ll relish. It’s an area Board, the Independent Non-Executive Directors: Miles amendments (Global Law Trials). As we near the end of the that’s full of passion and pride, with huge numbers of people playing Templeman, Andy Higginson and Andy Cosslett; the season in which they have been trialled, why not give your views to the IRB on whether they should be adopted into Law. and involved in the game and I know we’ll get great support. All over Executive Directors, CEO Ian Ritchie, CFO Steve Brown Whether you are a player, coach, referee, administrator or the country, from St James’ Park in the North East to Sandy Park in the and CCO Sophie Goldschmidt and the President and spectator your views matter. So complete the five-minute South West, the world’s best will be on show in 2015 and for all of us Chairman of the Board whose appointments are due to involved in rugby that represents a great opportunity for the game.” survey at: www.research.net/s/irblawstrials-en be confirmed at the AGM. As a reminder the Global Law Trials are: Malcolm Wharton represents England Colleges RFU RUGBY WORLD CUP 2015 MATCH VENUES AND HOST CITIES: 1. LAW 12.1 on the Council. Educated at Kirkby Stephen Grammar, Permits a quick throw-in or lineout option after a knock-on 1. Brighton Community Stadium, Brighton & Hove – 30,750 Royal Agricultural and Birmingham Universities, or throw forward into touch. 2. Manchester City Stadium, Manchester – 47,800 Malcolm lives in Devon and now runs an education 2. LAW 16.7 3. Elland Road, Leeds – 37,914 business consultancy, after 22 years as Principal of Players are required to clear the ball from the ruck within 5 4. Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester – 16,115 Hartpury College. Malcolm previously played for seconds of the referee saying “use it” 5. Leicester City Stadium, Leicester – 32,312 Sidmouth, Exeter and Launceston. 3. Law 19.2 6. Millennium Stadium, Cardiff – 74,154 For a quick throw-in, the player may be anywhere outside 7. Olympic Stadium, London – 54,000 He said, “As the Rugby World Cup in 2015 draws the field of play between the line of touch and the player’s 8. Sandy Park, Exeter – 12,300 nearer, it is crucial that we are in the best possible shape goal line. 9. Stadiummk, Milton Keynes – 30,717 to make the most of this huge opportunity to create a step 4. LAW 20.1(G) 10. St James’ Park, Newcastle upon Tyne – 52,409 change in participation for our game. I look forward to Forming a scrum – the referee will call “crouch, bind, set”. 11. Twickenham Stadium, London – 81,605 building on the excellent work that Rob Udwin has done 5. Lineout Option – A team awarded a penalty or a free kick 12. Villa Park, Birmingham – 42,785 and to work closely with staff and all stakeholders from at a lineout may choose a further lineout and they throw-in. 13. Wembley Stadium, London – 90,256 July 14th.”

ENGLAND’S RUGBY WORLD CUP 2015 MATCH SCHEDULE: like and the basics of what we do to prepare for the HSBC Sevens POOL A ENGLAND SEVENS World Series. We’ll see around 300 coaches this season and we’re September 18 also interacting with a lot of youngsters too, which will give them ENGLAND v Oceania 1 (Twickenham Stadium) SHARE EXPERTISE an idea of what works in international sevens and what we’re September 26 looking for.” ENGLAND v Wales (Twickenham Stadium) Simon Mills Ryan hopes an expanded programme next season will take the October 3 number of coaches engaged in these sevens sessions beyond the ENGLAND v Australia (Twickenham Stadium) England Sevens have been sharing their expertise with coaches 1,000 mark. October 10 and young players at a series of Development Days. Head Coach ENGLAND v Play Off Winner (City of Manchester Stadium) Ben Ryan, Assistant Coach Russell Earnshaw and Women’s Head Potential knock out phase Coach Barry Maddocks have delivered sessions at London Irish, October 17 Bristol, Worcester, Saracens and Leeds Carnegie QF2: Winner Pool B v Runner-up Pool A (Twickenham Stadium) The sessions were designed for coaches and players in club October 18 academies, colleges and schools and the key themes are the ‘how’ QF4: Winner Pool A v Runner-up Pool B (Twickenham Stadium) of coaching sevens and the development of core skills and game October 24 sense. Expertise was added by current international players with SF1: Winner QF1 v Winner QF2 (Twickenham Stadium) the April 18 session at Worcester joined by England’s leading try October 25 scorer Dan Norton and most-capped forward James Rodwell, a SF2: Winner QF3 v Winner QF4 (Twickenham Stadium) former Warriors player. October 30 “Coaches of age group players have a huge opportunity to make Bronze Final (Olympic Stadium) an impact on young players in terms of talent identification and October 31 development,” said Ryan. “These sessions are an ideal opportunity FINAL (TWICKENHAM STADIUM) to connect with coaches working with young players and increase their knowledge base. It gives them an insight into what we’re TICKETS FOR THE TOURNAMENT WILL GO ON SALE IN 2014. doing at international level, an idea of what best practice looks

2 Touchline – MAY 2013 Continued from page 1… THE STRATEGIC PLAN’S VISION OF THE RUGBY LANDSCAPE IN FIVE YEARS’ TIME “We want rugby to be amongst England’s strongest sports, with our clubs thriving and numbers to grow, attracting the greatest ever commercial success and profits to invest into participation at an all-time high. Our aim is to have more volunteers and more people playing our grassroots clubs and the professional game. more often and enjoying every kind of rugby in our clubs, universities, colleges and schools. “The Rugby World Cup will light up the nation and the sporting world as one of the best “We want both boys and girls to aspire to play for England and England’s performances and most memorable sporting events ever held. in the Rugby World Cup and the Women’s Rugby World Cup to help live TV audience “Our aim is to see the RFU winning recognition for the way it governs the game.”

Strategic Plan Overview STRATEGIC OVERVIEW PLAN If England is to deliver the most inspiring Rugby World Cup in 2015 and ignite nationwide and I O R I T I E worldwide interest in the game, we P R S must take this once in a generation opportunity, operating as a team Rugby for Everyone Securing Success ready for and excited by the challenge. Increased Revenue for the Game Broaden rugby’s reach International Performance Modern Brand Keep 14 to 24 year & Professional Rugby The Most Inspiring olds enthused Departments Fine Reputation Grow stadium revenue Rugby World Cup Ever Strong Relationships Modern club facilities England men’s and Maximise catering, women’s XVs and 7s hospitality & events Quality experience and performance plan Spectator experience a safe environment Identify & enhance Increase value of Clear talent pathway Connecting with relationships commercial assets Enhanced role and strong development audiences and profile resource Effective game Ticket pricing analysis & Rugby at heart governance retail revenue SUSTAINABLE Performance programme Identify areas of brand CLUBS post 20 age group Unforgettable memories CENTRAL Review and TO DELIVERY RFU & PRL heads of More than a tournament redesign brands agreement renegotiation Minimum financial Measure reputation and guarantee brand impact L I V E R E D T H R O U G D E H :

Offering the best Providing good digital, IT & governance & customer relationship Promoting the regulation best culture, management Delivering a state performance & of the art stadium leadership YS TO SUCCE KE SS

10 |11 The RFU Strategic Plan 2012/13-2016/17

How the RFU works

MAY 2013 – Touchline 3 ENGLAND SEVENS PLAYERS IN RECORD RUGBY SAFARI Nicola Marshall It was roar power for England Sevens players at a world record breaking the weekend and his 50th overall this London Mariott Sevens as, with fans’ fancy dress outfits getting better each season, making him the series’ top year, the players got in on the action. The shoot at Twickenham lasted a full try scorer. day and involved four hours of body painting. England Women were crowned London In striking images released to celebrate the safari fancy dress theme, England Women’s Invitational Sevens champions Sevens players Chris Cracknell, Dan Norton, Tom Mitchell, Alice Richardson after a comprehensive 36-7 victory over and Michaela Staniford were body painted as an animal representing their reigning world champions Australia at individual strengths and style on the pitch. With blistering speed, wing Dan the Marriott London Sevens, reversing a Norton appropriately became a cheetah, while cunning, clever playmaker Tom 20-19 defeat to the Wallabies in the pool Mitchell was made into a mandrill. stages with an impressive six try victory. A 26-19 victory over Kenya saw England Sevens finish third in the final round The Saturday matches brought a world of the HSBC World Series, and move up to sixth overall as the top ranked record breaking attendance of 71,898, European side, flyer Dan Norton marking the victory with his tenth try of with 41,125 fans arriving on the Sunday.

ROBERTSON BACKS ESSEX TEAM’S IPF RUGGERTHON Essex Bishops are celebrating the completion of a gruelling but Douglas, the generosity of sponsors and the dedication of the whole REDS TURN successful Ruggerthon of 26 rugby matches in four days that raised team. The epic event included fixtures against 3 Rifles of the Army more than £15,000 for the RFU Injured Players Foundation (IPF). RFU and a visit to Rugby where an antique-style Webb Ellis ball was Twickenham Stadium was the starting point for a unique fundraising presented to the Bishops by Rugby Lions RFC. TIDE FOR scheme involving 41 players from 16 clubs under the Bishops’ invitational “Day two was the toughest,” said team player Richard Austin, “but banner to travel the country in support of the IPF, the charity that we kept going and when we arrived at Old Brentwoods for the final supports people who sustain a catastrophic injury while playing rugby. leg there was a crowd of people letting off party streamers, cheering BABCOCK They presented a cheque for £10,000 to RFU President and IPF and clapping. The whole event gave us a marvellous feeling of Trustee Paul Murphy on day one and additional money continued to togetherness. Now I would love to see another team or county take on roll in as they made their way around venues in Edinburgh, Carlisle, the Ruggerthon idea and create a similar challenge.” TROPHY Roger Thompson Northwich, Burton on Trent, Rugby and back home to Brentwood in To make a donation visit the www.justgiving.com/Ruggerthon Essex. At each venue they played three or four matches of 15-a-side, website or text RUGG69 to 70070. The Army recovered from a 19 points deficit before a record full-contact rugby, 15 minutes each way, and tag or touch rugby when For more information on the IPF and organising an event visit Twickenham crowd of 72,471 to beat the Royal Navy by 43-26 the opposition were women’s and girls’ teams. www.rfuipf.org.uk or check out www.essexbishops.com for information and once more lift the Babcock Trophy. Sports Minister Hugh Robertson gave his support to the venture, on the club. Two tries by Navy centre Dale Sleeman followed by a third from saying: “It’s fantastic to see such a great example of rugby union’s team No.8 Gaz Evans had racked up 19 points in 12 minutes. It was spirit and this fundraising for the RFU Injured Players Foundation. The THE RUGGERTHON ITINERARY certainly wake up time for the Reds. In sevens, 19 points adrift is charity already does so much to support and protect the rugby family, Thursday, April 11 – Twickenham Stadium: matches against Highlife not such a calamity so it was time for 7s heads on. The Reds’ backs and with the help of community fundraising such as this, they will be XV on main pitch, Empty Brains and Upper Clapton. displayed innovation and even more innovation before thrusting able to do even more in the future.” their attacks straight and deep. Winger Sam Speight corkscrewed Friday, April 12 – 3rd Battalion Rifles, Redford Infantry barracks, past three defenders for a superb one handed touch-down. Andy Barrow, an IPF client, Paralympian and former GB Wheelchair Edinburgh: Rifle Battalion A XV, Rifle Battalion B XV, Edinburgh Rugby captain, and his wife Alison, joined the tour that made use of Then the big battalions started rolling. Overwhelming forward Northern Gents XV, Gents and Rifles XV; Carlisle RFC: Carlisle Vets play triggered Bath Rugby centre Samesa Rokoduguni to bullock a 36-seater coach complete with treatment table, and two smartly XV, Carlisle Barbarians XV, Creighton RFC, Wigton RFC. branded BMW cars courtesy of Elms BMW. Said Andy: “The IPF really his way over in the corner. Centre Peceli Nacamavuto ran in a Saturday, April 13 – Northwich RFC: Northwich Vets, Winnington does make a difference to those seriously injured playing rugby. third. Crucially, full back Ceri Cummings converted two from Park Vets, Sale Vets, Isle of Man Ladies (Touch); Burton on Trent Without them Paralympic sport would have been impossible for me and three very difficult kicks. RFC: Burton Vets A XV, Burton Vets B XV, Burton Metropolitan, it was great to join this bunch of rugby nuts on such a great event.” After the break with the score at 19 points apiece, the body Lichfield/England Ladies (Touch). Richard Austin of Essex County and the England Deaf Rugby Union language suggested the Reds were on song. Their forwards paid tribute to the backing and support of Mark Pawsey, MP for Rugby, Sunday, April 14 – Rugby Lions RFC: HMP National Vets, Rugby Lions rampaged, the one-way exchanges suggested a turn of the tide. and the Essex Bishops’ captain Christy McCann and vice captain Steve XV, Rugby Ladies (touch); Old Brentwoods RFC: Old Brentwoods Cummings wisely took a penalty for a three point lead. Vets, Basildon Vets, Old Brentwoods Vets, Wooden Spoon XV. Power, speed and deft touches brought the score to 43-19. Centre Gerhard Wessels was at his inventive best. Royal Scots Dragoon Guardsman Rokoduguni scored a brace. His speed and Said Austin Healey: “It’s so important that AEG is continuing to physique made for a hard target with 20 metres to go. Inosi AEG GRASSROOTS support grassroots rugby this year. We need to give youth teams Laqekoro in his first run at Twickenham went over for another. all the backing and support possible – they’re our future stars. The No one played a more complete match than Army skipper and CHALLENGE prizes on offer are money-can’t buy opportunities and I urge every lock Darrell Ball. With the chips down, he rallied his troops and team in the UK and Ireland to apply.” then played a superb game of rugby in the lineout, the scrum England rugby legends Austin Healey and Will Greenwood have AEG supplied hundreds of rugby kits in 2012 and one lucky club, and the contact play. Close behind was 40-year-old legend Chris backed a campaign to make mud stained kit a thing of the past. Winchester Colts, also received a training session with the England Budgen, who burst down the centre of Twickenham with blue AEG’s 2013 grassroots rugby campaign gives teams the chance rugby legends at their own club. shirts dripping from his broad shoulders. to win new kits, washing machines, and the chance to train with Lisa Hodgson from Winchester Colts said: “I would strongly At the death, Navy wing Jack Foster went over for a try converted their sporting heroes. recommend that all grassroots teams enter. As well as winning a by Dave Pascoe. Mentally some of the Navy were ready to have This year’s competition will see 40 grassroots rugby teams across once in a lifetime opportunity to train with their England heroes, another go but they were physically exhausted and it was too late. the country (junior and senior) receive a kit and laundry package our team received a high-quality custom-made kit and an AEG Army v Navy 2013 was a feast for over 72,000. Darrell Ball that includes 15 bespoke rugby kits, designed by the winning teams, washing machine which meant that we’ve been able to use funds ushered his men to the President’s Box to receive the Triple as well as a top of the range AEG washing machine in time for the normally spent on kit and laundry towards training and other Crown—The Babcock Trophy, the Inter Services Championship start of the 2013 season. In the initiative’s three years, AEG, the facilities for the club.” Bowl and the Man of the Match award. premium home appliance brand, has already provided grassroots A good afternoon’s work? Not really, more a result of clubs and schools with nearly 2000 full team kits. Apply before 31st May at www.facebook.com/AEG Regimental sacrifice and rugby hard graft in the mists of November and the snows of February.

4 Touchline – MAY 2013 A NOVEL CLARE POINTS THE WAY TO WAY AND VALE RAISE FUNDS OF LUNE RESPOND Paula Rowe Tony Simpson A gripping tale of political intrigue and corruption The choice of Team GB Wheelchair Basketball player and four times Olympian Clare Strange to open the new is set to raise vital funds towards a futuristic rugby facilities at Vale of Lune RFC for disabled members and guests could hardly have been more appropriate. clubhouse at Plymstock in Devon. Author Nic It was, after all, a visit by Clare, joint team captain at the London Olympics and a competitor at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the 2004 Taylor is donating money from the sale of his games in Athens and the games in Sydney in 2000, which first alerted the club to the shortfall in their Powderhouse Lane facilities. book ‘A Plague of Dissent’ towards building a new, Addressing the issue became a priority when former Vale player Dan Griffiths brought his fiancé to be Clare to the club’s summer ball carbon-neutral clubhouse and community centre last summer and quickly flagged up the need to provide for visitors with disabilities. at Plymstock Albion Oaks RFC. The response from Vale officials, led by Secretary Andy Perry, was prompt, with an upgrade to the toilets and improved access Nic, an Oaks rugby club stalwart, has written the thriller becoming a priority as plans were quickly drawn up to make the club more user friendly. Prior to cutting the ribbon Clare said she was delighted to be opening the facilities which include a wide ramp at the main entrance which is his first venture into the literary world. A Plague to the clubhouse and a new toilet. Clare stressed the importance of making life easier for all disabled people and she congratulated the of Dissent is described as fast-paced and bursting with Vale of Lune for doing just that. political intrigue and corruption. It took Nic, 52, who President Nigel Armstrong paid a special tribute to all the volunteers who had worked on construction the ramp and installing the lives in Staddiscombe, around 1,000 hours, spread over toilet. He said: “Everything was done in true Vale of Lune style and we owe a debt of gratitude to all those people who made it happen in eight months, to write in his spare time. their own time and at their own expense.” He said: “I have always been an avid reader, but never Over the years the Vale has gained an enviable reputation as a venue for a wide range of events. The completion of this undertaking had the confidence I could write. But after producing a also identifies Vale of Lune RFC as a club that responds when the needs of visitors are identified. 20,000-word dissertation, I realised that I could.” Architect Nic, whose sons Adam,16, and Daniel, 15, play for the Oaks, has been involved with the club for three years and is a committee member, organises the junior fixtures and coaches – and on top of that he has also designed the new clubhouse. The design is now complete; phase one will be built over the summer and should be open for the beginning of the new season. Nic, who described himself as a “general dogsbody” at the rugby club said: “The first phase is costing around £120,000 and is pretty much paid for. But we plan to develop the building in stages, being completed in time for England hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2015. “We are still raising funds, so I thought I would donate some money from the book to help. The Plymstock Oaks presently use the existing building for changing rooms and as a kitchen to feed the kids after their games every Sunday. The building has seen far better days, is unfit for WORCESTER WOMEN purpose, has barely enough basic changing areas and the players stand outside to eat their meals.” A Plague of Dissent is published as an e-book and can WALKING TALL Julia Hutton be downloaded from the internet on to Kindles and other Worcester were crowned Women’s Premiership champions for the first time ever in their 20-year history, the Sixways club clinching the e-readers. It is also be available in paperback. title in the final round of the season’s league action after an impressive 48-8 victory over Wasps. Worcester were presented with their Premiership title by the RFU’s Carol Isherwood and duly celebrated their title in style. Denying rivals Richmond a fourth consecutive title by one point Worcester took the honours after 12 wins and just two defeats. The close nature of the championship meant that Worcester travelled to Wasps knowing they had to secure a bonus point win. And the away side announced their intentions from the onset and opened their account after just five minutes following a great break byentre c Sarah Guest. Megan Goddard added the conversion. Further tries from England U20s captain Goddard, England prop Rochelle Clark and Charlotte Keane banked the bonus point before more scores followed for Pippa Crews, Rhiannon Watkins and Goddard again. At the other end of the table Thurrock were relegated into the Championship after their 18-15 play-off defeat to Aylesford Bulls who will now join the Premiership for the 2013-2014 season.

ESSINGTON SWITCHED ON Essington RUFC’s new training lights were officially turned on by Staffordshire RFU President, Mike Procter last month (April) in the first stage of the club’s £100,000 upgrade of their outside facilities. Essington Chairman, Mark Osborn welcomed Mike and members of the Essington community. The floodlights project, funded under the RFU Capital grants, was put together by President Dave Brawn, his daughter Jenny White, CINDERFORD U11S’ HAT TRICK Secretary Mike Chandler and the floodlight work was carried out by J Halliday Electrical. The new training lights replace ones that were First Shane Ranford’s U11s gave Cinderford RFC something to during the second half they showed their true abilities – running becoming unusable for training. The new floodlights light up the full cheer about by winning the Rugby Premier League Land Rover in nine tries in total. Matson didn’t give up though and scored a training area for both men’s training on a Wednesday night and also Cup last month. well-deserved try close to final whistle, making it 9-1. the Ladies training on a Thursday Evening. Then, just a couple of weeks later, they took the Berry Hill “It has been a great season for these youngsters, with great The old lights will be installed on the front of the building to light U11 Festival by storm. Still not satisfied, they travelled to support from the club, the parents and my coaching team of Neil up the car park and the funding for this will come from a £500 Cheltenham’s Prince of Wales Stadium just a week later to Embling, Christian Burford and Seb Merritt. The most important NatWest Rugby Force 2013 grant. overcome Matson in the Gloucestershire RFU Under 11 County aspect has been the sheer enjoyment that everyone has had from The second stage of upgrade is the drainage of both playing Cup Final. their rugby over recent months. The kids have all played for each pitches which will be funded by a grant from Sport England. This Said Shane, “It was a 9am kick off, with an even earlier meet for other and learned that important lesson that rugby teaches us all, work, under the watchful eye of Project Manager, John Hacker of players to prepare for the game. There were a lot of nerves, both it’s all about teamwork.” PSD, starts in the close season and will hopefully enable the club to amongst the kids and the parents! So that’s lots of youngsters proud to have added three pieces have playable pitches when the rain sets in. “Matson held their own initially, with great defence from both of silverware to the club’s trophy cabinet. An achievement Essington RUFC Ltd is a Community Amateur Sports Club run teams, but once Cinderford scored the team settled down and applauded by everyone at Cinderford RFC. completely by volunteers for all of its members.

MAY 2013 – Touchline 5 AASE SHOWCASE FINALE Stefan Curtis

In the AASE Championship Final In the AASE Plate Final Prince Henry’s The AASE Bowl Final saw Truro Harpury beat Oakland 20-10, Grammar School beat Henley College College secure a 53-10 victory over coming back from 10-5 down to 25-15. England Under 18 props Lewis Myerscough College in the opening reclaim their AASE Championship Boyce and Paul Hill put in strong displays game. Truro College proved to be too title in front of a vocal crowd. for Prince Henry’s but it wasn’t all plain strong for their northern rivals with an Oaklands looked comfortable with sailing, at 18-3 down Henley kicked on impressive display of pace and power. the lead but the Gloucestershire and reduced the deficit to three-points at The pick of the tries came from England college were impressive in the 18-15. But Prince Henry’s fought back, Under 18 prop Luke Chapman who final quarter, scoring two tries and and despite being down to 14-men scored showed good strength before swallow FORGET THE a penalty to secure the win. a late try to make it 25-15. diving over the whitewash. SANDCASTLES GET DUG IN TO BEACH RUGBY!

Fancy playing beach rugby on golden sand, in a sheltered bay known for its sunshine, safe bathing, cafes, kiosks, bars and restaurants? Then why not take your men’s or women’s team to the Jersey International Beach Rugby Tournament on St Brelades Beach from 10am to 5pm on July 20th? Now in its third year, this event has grown in popularity and is open to men’s and women’s squads of 10, five on the pitch and five rolling subs. All proceeds will go to Holidays for Heroes and you’ll have a great time, cooling off in the beautiful blue sea in between matches of five minutes each way, with two minutes’ break. If you reach the finals that will be seven minutes each way – and may those with the staying power on the sand win! For more information visit www.jrarugby.com For details on hotel packages please contact the Beach Rugby Teams Co-Ordinator Ian Henderson at [email protected]

LANES HEALTH PROTECTING LOCAL PLAYERS

A local family company, Lanes Health, incidents in their sporting community, Said Jon Groves, one of the owners of manufacturers of Olbas Oil, Kalms and including a local football player who was Lanes Health, “As a local company we want Jakeman’s Throat Lozenges, recently revived thanks to playing on the next pitch to help to ensure the health and welfare of bought two defibrillators, one for Widden to a team of paramedics. local sportsmen and women. We were very Old Boys and one for Old Richians. Old Richians and Widden both run two pleased to provide these defibrillators in The company regularly support local sport senior teams, a Vets XV and 10 age group case they are ever needed because if they and community projects, sponsoring several teams and Widden’s defibrillator will also be are they have the potential to save lives.” youth teams in the city as well as Gloucester available for Old Cryptians RFC who share Rugby and was aware of a number of their ground. CELEBRATIONS ALL ROUND Paul Bolton

Old Coventrians celebrated becoming the latest Warwickshire club to attain the RFU Club Accreditation Award by staging a fantastic Mini Festival at their Tile Hill Lane headquarters. Around 500 youngsters from clubs including Barkers’ Butts, Earlsdon, Nottingham Corsairs and Shipston-on-Stour took part in matches ranging from four-a-side tag rugby for Under 7s to 13-a-side games for Under 12s. Guests of honour included the Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Tim Sawdon and Mike Hemming, the president-elect of the Warwickshire RFU.

Charlie Kingham proved too strong for Worcester. BISHOP’S Bishop’s Stortford opened up a 24-0 lead with tight-head prop Will Brown, centre James Obart STORTFORD and fly half Ollie Walker scoring tries and Will Malins adding three conversions and a penalty. LIFT COLTS CUP Worcester, who won the North Midlands Colts Paul Bolton Cup two weeks ago, scored a late consolation try through scrum half Sam Brown which Ali Duddell Bishop’s Stortford won the National Colts Cup improved. It was Worcester’s second defeat in the for the second time in their history by beating final of the competition, which is run by the East Worcester Wanderers 24-7 at Goldington Road Midlands RU, following a 31-18 reverse against in Bedford. The win ended a run of six successive London Irish ten years ago. wins by Midlands clubs – five of them by Bedford Worcester won the National Colts Plate, the Blues – in the competition since Bishop’s competition for sides beaten in rounds one to Stortford last won the competition in 2006. three of the Cup, in 2006. Bishop’s Stortford also A side that included three Under 18 won the National Colts Plate in 2005 and 2011 internationals in Ireland scrum half Jack Cullen and were runners-up in 2008. and England hooker Sam James and number eight

6 Touchline – MAY 2013 WEST YORKSHIRE GIRLS TACKLE NEW

CHALLENGE Tony Simpson Under 13 girls rugby is a pivotal stage in the progression of youngsters from mastering basic handling skills of the game via Tag and Touch rugby to the contact version which puts them on track towards the representative game. There is always a measure of apprehension among some youngsters when the rudiments of BETTER AND physical contact and tackling are confronted for the first time, yet ironically once the great majority of girls have experienced the rough and tumble of ‘proper’ rugby, they are hooked. Baildon RUFC hosted the first West Yorkshire Girls Under 13s development day recently, with the event run by the West Yorkshire Development team, ably assisted by two casual coaches, Jon BETTER Walker and Kristian Sharples, who accompanied their pupils from the RFU All Schools programme, Whitcliffe Mount and Brighouse High School. A glorious day in Baildon favoured youngsters from Brighouse High School, Whitcliffe Mount FACILITIES School, Titus Salt and Settle College, with over 80 girls honing their rugby skills with a morning of skills and drills to give them the confidence to play in a competitive festival where tackling was included for the first time. Paula Rowe The aim of the day was to give the girls, who have all received some form of RFU coaching, the Rugby clubs are celebrating the award of RFU Better Facilities grants to opportunity to participate in competitive fixtures against other schools in the area. The festival improve their clubhouses and pitches. A total of £828,000 has been awarded to was a great success with seven teams participating in a 7-a-side game format, Brighouse High 152 clubs, across the length and breadth of the country. School providing three teams and Whitcliffe Mount two. These latest grants, of up to £10,000 each, are part of the RFU’s £10million investment Settle College reigned supreme, winning all of their six matches, with Whitcliffe Mount and in grassroots rugby clubs announced in October, helping these clubs prepare for the Brighouse High just behind along with Titus Salt. opportunities presented by England hosting the Rugby World Cup in 2015. The feedback from the staff and the pupils involved was really positive and another The RFU’s Better Facilities small grants programme will be used for three specific Development Day has been planned next month to link in with a local rugby club and get girls in West Yorkshire competing on a regular basis with other clubs and potentially other districts at areas – RFU Goalpost Safety, Pitch Maintenance and Social Spaces. It is a key part of Under 13s. the RFU’s new National Facilities Strategy for 2013-17, which aims to support clubs in “Being exposed to tackling for the first time is a nervous moment for some girls, but once they growing participation, improving the quality of the rugby experience and helping them to are up and running, the sheer enjoyment of rugby’s physicality kicks in and there’s no looking become more financially sustainable, up to and beyond 2015. back. They just love it,” said organiser and Community Rugby Coach Chris Stone. One of the first clubs to benefit is Hayle RFC in Cornwall who will receive £7,500 towards a (£19,000) project to renovate and update their bar and function room. First constructed in 1968, it has recently seen a steady decline in use. The club aims to deliver a more welcoming and modern environment for the local community, improve income for the largest social space in the town and provide a focal point for promoting rugby in 2015. Elsewhere, a further 151 projects supported in this round of RFU funding include new CONTRACTORS FUND goalposts and post protectors for Dukinfield RFC in Cheshire, whose current equipment is broken and unsafe; Charlton Park RFC and Shooters Hill RFC in south east London who will be HELPS MILLWALL’S able to maintain nine pitches themselves using grounds maintenance equipment recommended by RFU Head Groundsman Keith Kent; and Silloth RFC in Cumbria who will totally refurbish their clubroom and bar. Clubs involved will undertake their projects over the summer. VENUS MAKE A “We are determined to help rugby clubs across England improve the quality of the rugby experience and provide more playing opportunities and facilities that can be used by local communities” said the RFU’s Rugby Development Director Steve Grainger. DIFFERENCE “This investment will also support the clubs’ financial sustainability over the next four years as we approach the Rugby World Cup in 2015, creating a focus and lasting legacy Millwall Rugby Club’s Venus ladies team is to be sponsored for rugby in the community. The range of projects will help the clubs raise their profiles by the Canary Wharf Contractors Fund, the Canary Wharf and encourage more players, volunteers and spectators to join the rugby family and share Group having long been a big supporter of the club. the special values of which we are very proud.” Sophie Morris, Development Officer for Millwall Rugby Ross Baxter, RFU Facility Investment Manager, said: “During March the RFU received Club said, “Venus entered a competitive league for the 589 applications requesting support for over £3m worth of projects. This demonstrated first time this year and are keen to keep progressing. We are delighted to have the Canary Wharf Contractors Fund that a new, simpler application process has had a dramatic effect in encouraging clubs as our sponsor. Their contribution to this developing part to make the case for investment. Such was the level of demand and quality of the of the game is exactly what we need. Their support will applications, the RFU allocated an additional £228,000 to the original £600,000 budget. also help us make a real difference to sport and fitness in the local community.” This means that we are able to support projects that clearly underpin the strength of Cormac MacCrann of the Canary Wharf Contractors Fund added, “Millwall Rugby Club already commitment by clubs leading up to 2015.” does great work in Tower Hamlets and beyond by providing sports opportunities for local people For more information, including a list of clubs receiving grants this year, go to: and the developing ladies team will significantly enhance their profile in the community. We wish www.rfu.com/betterfacilities the team every success in the coming season.” ROSS REALLY BUZZING

What better day to unveil your club’s Accreditation status than at the North Midlands Ladies’ Touch Rugby League event, when five teams were competing? Particularly as Ross-on- Wye RFC, founded 140 years ago, has a growing Picture courtesy of The Ross Gazette number of women getting involved to add to their two senior men’s teams and youngsters squads from Under 7s to Under 12s. And who better to perform the honours than local MP Jesse Norman, impressed by the real buzz at the club? With facilities building to match their ambitions, the club see the award as a stepping stone towards even greater success in the future.

MAY 2013 – Touchline 7 OWEN GETS GOLD

Paul Bolton Owen Johnson of Chesterfield Panthers has been awarded his Young Volunteers Gold Certificate by the RFU in recognition of his outstanding contribution to rugby in Notts, Lincs & Derbyshire. The 20 year old has completed more than 50 hours of voluntary work at his club and as a member of the NLD Referees’ Society. “Owen attended our Young Volunteer Programme and committed fully to it from the very beginning,” said Matt Jefferson the RFU’s Rugby Development Officer for Derbyshire. “Since starting the programme he has completed his referee qualifications, joined the Referees’ Society, coached and officiated voluntarily in schools as part of recruitment activities organised by the School Sports Partnership and local RFU Community Rugby Coaches and he has now completed more than 55 hours of voluntary leadership work in his club and community. “This work has benefitted Chesterfield Panthers in recruiting players thanks to the ability to provide high quality refereeing at school matches at the club. The high quality of experience the school players received at the club gave everyone the opportunity to take part, learn and develop while experiencing, for some, a completely new sport. “Owen intends to continue this work at university and hopefully attract new players to the game.” The RFU Gold Certificate recognises the efforts of young volunteers who have achieved 50 hours of volunteering. SELBY CELEBRATE PROMOTION AND SENIOR VASE VICTORY Tony Simpson Selby capped an impressive promotion season by winning the A Cruise penalty on 60 minutes for Selby put Drybrook 22-10 RFU Senior Vase Final against a determined Drybrook down with 30 minutes to play, but undeterred they hit back with a at Twickenham. close-range try from Neil Paul Morgan. The comeback was not to The Yorkshiremen had to fight to the bitter end against be though as Selby centre Alex Webster charged down a Drybrook opponents who refused to concede, but they had the game’s key clearing kick, Cruise converting to settle the game at 29-15. individuals who steered them through. In a tense opening half Drybrook were not finished and scored two late tries through Drybrook started by pressuring the Selby forwards through a Craig Clarke and winger Samuel James Peaper making the final commanding scrum. score 29-25 to Selby. Drybrook’s early endeavour was rewarded as Nick Ovens scored “It was a really great experience,” said captain Duncan Hardy. the opening try with Thomas Treherne converting, Selby fighting “Our supporters were very vocal and I think they managed to get back to get their first points of the day from the boot of Josh us over the line. I had the shakes before the game just thinking Cruise after Drybrook were caught offside. about it and I’ve still got them now. Drybrook were very good in Selby then went on to take the lead with a magnificent score, their style of play but luckily for us, we had a league game a week full back Dan Porter breaking away before combining with winger ago against a team that also played through. Ben Lunt who returned the favour to send Porter over after instrumental in pulling the strings at fly half, threw a long pass It was a great day for Selby’s wing Ben Lunt (pictured) when, sprinting the length of the field. Cruise extended Selby’s lead to out to Porter, who grabbed his second of the day and his 35th fresh from winning the RFU Senior Vase, he proposed to his 11-7 with a penalty, but Drybrook kept in touch with a drop goal of the season. Porter once again showed his class as he casually girlfriend Jacinta Townend and she said yes. Thank goodness as from Ben Large, making the score 11-10 at half time. slotted over a drop goal on 52 minutes just inside the 10 metre the whole crowd was behind him! Selby were first to strike in the second half. Cruise, who was line to send Selby 19-10 ahead. NEWENT SCRUM GOOD TO

TAKE JUNIOR VASE Tony Simpson NEWENT 58 BAILDON 29

Baildon hopes of back-to-back wins in the RFU Junior Vase A try by replacement Craig Woodall, coverted by Duxbury, final ended in disappointment at Twickenham as Newent punctuated the Newent dominance for a moment, but Joe Goatley comprehensively overpowered them to claim eight tries and take broke through for a try and conversion and then No.8 Fred the trophy back to Gloucestershire. Nottingham crossed to take the score past the 50 mark with his When Baildon were shunted back at the first scrum in the first side’s seventh try. minute and Newent fly half Joe Goatley landed his first penalty, it With a try and conversion Duxbury epitomised Baildon’s never- was clear that the Yorkshiremen were to face a torrid examination say-die resolve and, while another powerful scrum launched at the set piece. the eighth Newent try for outstanding flanker Lee Warren, the So it proved as the Gloucestershire side plundered the scrums Yorkshiremen had the last word when centre Elliott Morgan carved and left Baildon on the back foot, their own brief period of parity through for the final try of the game. coming after they had slipped 11-0 behind in as many minutes to a “We had a game plan and knew it was going to be a big occasion and try by scrum half James Dean and a second Goatley penalty. we prepared for it and got the execution right,” said Newent Coach Baildon’s try came from flanker Tom Craven and a conversion Andy Addis. “Fair play to Baildon, they were a good side when they and penalty from full back Jake Duxbury, but when Dean crossed had the ball and we just had to keep the ball away from them and give for his second, Newent regained the momentum. They added a them a good old fashioned bit of ‘Forest’ scrummaging. Our scrum was try by centre Tom Webb and a conversion and two penalties from tremendous today and our backs just executed good clean ball with Goatley to lead 29-10 at half-time. After the break further Newent it.” Said captain Tristan Veale: “I’m ecstatic. It was a brilliant result and scores came through a try from wing Dominic Matthews and centre it shows the hard work we have been putting in over the season. It Barney Goatley, Joe Goatley converting the former. paid dividends and the crowd supported us brilliantly.”

8 Touchline – MAY 2013 FROM JENNY LANE TO TWICKENHAM CHARITIES GET TOGETHER AND A DREAM COME TRUE! Tony Simpson FOR DISABLED GYM Lifetime ambitions don’t usually take nearly 50 years to be fulfilled, INSTRUCTORS but when they do the waiting makes the thrill so much more intense. That’s the view of Barbara Elliott, who realised her dream Instructability, a project designed by Aspire, the spinal injury level, Maurillia (38) is now walking with the aid of a stick and when she walked the pristine Twickenham turf in the company of charity, and YMCA fit to give disabled people the chance to work still in pain while awaiting further orthopaedic operations. Once Head Groundsman Keith Kent. in the leisure industry as fitness instructors has been working she is physically able she has been promised a work placement “I can’t tell you what a thrill it was. I can’t put it into words,” she with the RFU Injured Players Foundation. in London with Fitness First who are keen to support the said. “It was just absolutely wonderful. Everything I had ever hoped A course was recently hosted at Twickenham Stadium to InstructAbility Project. “This programme is something positive to for, although only my dad ever knew about my Twickenham secret. support injured rugby players and armed service personnel. The focus on,” she said. “You can’t overestimate that.” “It was something I’ve held in my heart all my life, thinking ‘it’s Royal Marines’ Spencer Vaughan, the Army’s Maurillia Simpson Duncan Campbell, also 38, was injured playing flanker for not going to happen’, even getting to Twickenham for a game will and injured rugby player, Duncan Campbell, were there. Cobham RFC in 2009. Having had a nose bleed and damaged an be a no-no, never mind getting there and going on the field. When Said Spencer (25), who played flanker for Cwmbran Town, “I artery in his neck, unsuspecting he went home, demonstrated Baildon got to the Junior Vase final last year I was so envious of the wanted to stay as active as possible because that’s been such a the symptoms of a stroke and was rushed to hospital where an players actually getting onto the grass.” big part of my life. As a former rugby player to do our training at operation relieved the pressure on his brain. Months of rehab Dad was Dennis Hugill, groundsman at Baildon RUFC’s Jenny Lane Twickenham was amazing.” in hospital were followed by a return to his parents in Plymouth headquarters in West Yorkshire, and it was his passion for the job Spencer dived into the sea on adventure training in Gran Canaria after separating from his wife. that transmitted to his daughter. In spades. in 2010 and hit his head. Now, after remedial operations and “The Injured Players Foundation has helped me tremendously. “My dad would take me to the ground from being a toddler and as spinal rehabilitation, he’s hoping to study Sports Development Having got more physically able they helped adapt my flat when soon as I was able to walk I was given a job. When I was four years at university and, thanks to his newly acquired qualifications, has I left my parents and sent me on this course. I had been in quite old he would give me the job of putting out the flags in their slots.” been given part time work at Plymouth Life Centre. a low place but this has really changed things. It has given me the She added. “By the time I was 10 I was marking out the pitch, with Maurillia, a Royal Logistics driver and communications motivation to get out of bed. dad supplying a few words of encouragement to keep straight! specialist, had done three tours in Iraq when she had to be dug “Playing rugby and training, going to the gym, was an important “So I’ve been marking out the pitch for about 48 years. Then when out after two incoming mortars buried her. After rehabilitation part of my life . Now I have a work placement at China Fleet dad died 20 years ago I was left on my own to look after everything in the UK, she was posted to Germany where she was knocked Country Club near Plymouth and am hoping to take it further that dad did, which included looking after the changing rooms and off a pavement by a vehicle on her way back from a regimental and find employment. I’d love to work in a gym and to get into all the other jobs that go with that aspect of any rugby club. PT session. rugby coaching as I’ve already got my Level 1 and I’d love to be a “I’ve been there forever, working with an absolutely wonderful set Having played an array of sports at Army and Combined Services positive role model again for my son.” of people. Without their support I couldn’t function and might not have taken the job on, but they agreed at the outset that they would collectively become ‘my dad’ and they’ve looked after me so, so well ever since.” Needless to say, the chemistry between a son and daughter of the soil added generously to Barbara’s Twickenham treat. “It was like meeting a long lost friend,” she said. “He was just so easy to get on with. I think that when you have a shared enthusiasm and understanding for what you are doing, him at his level and me at mine, talking about the job is easy and interesting. He might have loads of equipment and I have a fork and a line-marking machine, but we have a shared ambition to make our pitch the best it can be with the resources we have.” While the Twickenham visit stemmed from the club’s appreciation of her contribution and Director of Rugby Dave Duxbury approaching Keith Kent for a meeting, this was not the only accolade to come her way this season. She recently collected the ‘Value the Volunteer’ Award for the West & Aire Wharfe District of the Yorkshire RFU from John Bentley at a Leeds Carnegie match and was also a guest of the RFU at the Barbarians game at Twickenham, when she was able to view the playing surface with a newly-informed awareness of why it looks so perfect.

SUCCESSFUL NEW SEVENS SERIES FOR COLLEGES Paul Bolton SOUTH Bromsgrove Sixth Form College won the inaugural North Midlands FE Sevens Series despite a win by Hanley Castle Sixth Form College in the final tournament which was played at Evesham RFC. Wins in the first two tournaments earlier in the season were SUE RYDER SEVENS enough to give South Bromsgrove the title in a successful This summer sees the launch of a new rugby sevens tournament in Bristol. This new event is a chance to first season for the colleges competition. South Bromsgrove challenge for the title of Bristol’s best sevens side, with awards and bragging rights going to the winning finished in third place at Evesham behind Hanley Castle and runners-up Stourbridge College. The other teams involved squad! The tournament is also open to teams from outside of Bristol. were Walsall Academy, Prince Henry’s from Evesham and Taking place on 27 July 2013 at Cleve RFC in Mangotsfield, Bristol, the event is being endorsed and supported by Warwickshire College. Bristol Rugby. The Bristol players will be in attendance on the day to support the teams and assist with running the “This has been a successful first year for this series and it is one competition. that we will be looking to build on next season and into the Squads can consist of club mates, friends or colleagues. There will be family entertainment during the day, and food and future,” said Jon Critchlow, one of the RFU Community Rugby awards in the evening. The inaugural Sue Ryder Sevens is an exciting new fixture in the rugby diary and a great chance Coaches for Birmingham. for local sides to compete against each other in a different format of the game we all love. More information on 0117 927 2921 or [email protected].

MAY 2013 – Touchline 9 DURHAM WOMEN’S RUGBY MASTERS SCHOLARSHIPS CHIPPENHAM Tony Simpson BOOST FOR Durham University Women’s Rugby Club have some post-graduate rugby scholarships available for 2013 and Head of Rugby Alex Keay is keen to hear GIRLS RUGBY from anyone who wants to improve their qualifications while playing rugby and improving their skills in the process. Chippenham RFC recently welcomed the off their new team shirts, funded by grants from “This year we have a number of Masters scholarships to give to female rugby players leader of Wiltshire Council, Jane Scott OBE, Wiltshire Council’s Community Area Board and wanting to play rugby while furthering their education at Durham University” said to formally open the new extension to their the Tim Waycott Trust. Women’s Rugby Development Officer Laura Hind. “We are looking especially for clubhouse facilities. The project, partly funded Current England Women’s player Kim Oliver forwards, but we would consider all girls with playing experience. In recent times the by the RFU, has delivered a much-needed started her rugby career at Chippenham University has flourished in its sporting ability, moving from sixth in 2011 to second upgrade, including two new changing rooms playing there from nine to 14 and the club position within the 2012 BUCS ranking.” with integral en-suite showering facilities to has a long term objective to establish ladies Durham University has two all-weather rubber crumb pitches, along with acres of grass ensure that the club complies with welfare women’s rugby at the club, the first step being pitches and also provides top-class conditioning facilities with development programmes requirements for girls and youth players. a sustainable girls’ rugby section. Dorset and tailored to individual players. The players have a large part in the running of the team and Councillor Scott was joined by Immediate Past Wilts RFU Community Rugby Coach, Frank there’s a great team environment. President of the RFU, Willie Wildash, Dorset & Butler, is working with local secondary schools The University is currently offering a wide range of Masters degree options and Team Wilts RFU representative, Ron Jones, Dorset & to encourage girls to play. Durham, the sporting arm of Durham University, is committed to providing the best Wilts RFU President, John Palmer and RFU Club The Under 9s played an exhibition match balance between work and sport, with training times arranged around working schedules. Management & Governance Manager, David demonstrating the RFU’s New Rules of Play, Stubley. She also met players from Chippenham’s adopted across Dorset & Wilts this season, Further information on the scholarship offers contact [email protected] or Girls section, led by team manager Julia Hyland. to improve the development pathway for [email protected]. This recently formed section were keen to show young players.

LONDON’S FEMALE STUDENTS ENJOY RFU MAY DAY 10S

Female students from eight universities across London and the South East played the inaugural May Day 10s at Esher RFC, an event organised by RFU development staff to provide competitive rugby at the end of the regular season. The students had indicated there was a need for more activity after the BUCS season and the 10s has been created to encourage more female players to stay in the game at university and to continue playing after completing their studies. The 10-a-side format was popular, with universities able to enter teams while missing players due to exams. Said Clare Cooper, Women’s Rugby Development Officer: “We hope that word will spread among the area’s universities and that we’ll see this 10s event become a regular feature in their diaries. Retaining players in the game is a key focus for the RFU, and providing the right format of the game, at the right time and the right venue is vitally important.” RESULTS: Imperial College, London – Cup Winners; University of Surrey – Cup Runners-Up; University of Chichester – Plate Winners; St Marys University – Plate Runners-Up; St George’s University – Bowl Winners; Oxford Brookes University – Bowl Runners-Up; University of Winchester – Wooden Spoon Winners; Southampton University – Wooden Spoon Runners-Up Pic courtesy of Sporting Focus BIG PERFORMANCE FROM BERKS U20S DORSET & WILTS U15S Tony Simpson Berkshire U20s were in fine form as they beat Cheshire U20s by 30-17 in the final of the National Under 20 Championship at Twickenham and MAKE IT FOUR Cheshire opened brightly enough when schoolboy full back Matt Geiger cut inside for a try after 14 minutes, with centre Mike Barlow converting. But Berkshire scrum half James The sixth Annual South West U15s Regional 10s over Surrey 19-14, Oxfordshire 21-17 and Gwent Brooks dummied and stretched over for a try that he converted to level matters at 7-7. Tournament took place at Chippenham Rugby Dragons1 22-21. Oxfordshire also qualified for Hooker Ben Henderson underlined his physical presence when he charged through Cheshire’s Club last month (April). Twelve teams from ten the Gold Group semi-finals as the best second defence for a try that Brooks converted. No.8 Samir Kharbouch then drove over from another counties (Bucks, Cornwall, Devon, Hampshire, placed team on points difference, based on their close-range scrum before Brooks added Oxfordshire, Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire, Dorset resounding 54-5 win against Gwent Dragons 1. In another penalty for a 22-7 interval lead. &Wilts and Somerset) and two squads from Pool 3, Dorset & Wilts won all their three games Five minutes after the restart wingman Jak Newport Gwent Dragons took part. against Berkshire 19-15, Somerset 17-10 and Rossiter extended Berkshire’s lead with his Dorset and Wilts maintained their iron grip on Gwent Dragons 2 29-10. side’s fourth try, but Cheshire hit back with the tournament by defeating first time finalists Devon fell to an inspired Oxfordshire team tries by replacements Mike Finnemore and Oxfordshire 19-7 in a hotly contested final, in the first Gold Group semi-final 24-7. Sussex, Ryan Higginson before a Brooks penalty mainly thanks to two breakaway tries, to win the having limited Dorset & Wilts to a 7-0 half settled Berkshire nerves. Cheshire were competition for the fourth consecutive year. In time lead, eventually ended up losing 34-0 to the earlier sets of pool games, Devon topped Pool the defending champions. Somerset defeated resolute to the final whistle and came close to 1 with wins over Hampshire 19-12, Bucks 26-5 Berkshire 24-19 to win the Silver Group final and cutting the arrears on two or three occasions, and Cornwall, in the group decider 26-5. Buckinghamshire ran out 17-14 winners in the but Berkshire were obdurate in defence and Sussex won all their matches in Pool 2 with wins Bronze Group against Gwent Dragons 2. kept their line intact to take the title.

10 Touchline – MAY 2013 STOCKING UP FOR THE FUTURE IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE

Tony Simpson

Stocksbridge RFC Junior Section launched their first excursion CUP GLORY FOR into player recruitment when they staged their first tag festival recently at Stocksbridge Playing Fields. The tournament, which targeted teams from local primary schools Stocksbridge and Deepcar St Johns, attracted over 60 ROMFORD & players and was pronounced a huge success by all involved, which in addition to the youngsters embraced club volunteers and RFU development staff. “The ultimate success of the tournament will be gauged by GUIDEA PARK AND how many of the youngsters involved want to put their toe in the water again and give rugby another try, but judging from their faces, they certainly enjoyed this session,” said Barnsley Community Rugby Coach Andy Gilmore Appleyard. “We had AYLESFORD BULLS great support from the club and from the teaching staff involved and with the kids showing lots of skill and enthusiasm, we had a lot of fun.” Julia Hutton The Stocks A team emerged as the winners with a 3-1 win over Deepcar B in the final, but all were winners as they enjoyed the Romford & Guidea Park RFC lifted the Women’s started to dominate through their forwards and soon found thrills of reaching the first base in what the club hopes will be a National Challenge Cup crown after seeing off a way through with a try for Carmen Vaughan closely long and entertaining rugby journey. Hammersmith & Fulham 17-12 in the final at followed by another touchdown for Heather Purcell which Stocksbridge Junior Section train on Friday evening at 4:30pm Broadstreet RFC. was converted by Jade Hagger. Jennifer Mugglestone also at the Stocksbridge Playing Fields in Coal Pit Lane. More The opponents were no strangers as they compete against got on the scoreboard for the winners. information can be obtained from Nigel George nigelgeorge@ each other in the South East North League. Hammersmith In the North v South Cup, Aylesford Bulls were the victors hotmail.co.uk or Jon Johnson at [email protected] or on & Fulham took the league title this season so it was only after a 17-25 win over Waterloo. The game started at an 07882209137. fitting that the runners-up, Romford & Guidea, lifted the intense speed and Aylesford dominated the early phases knock-out cup competition title. forcing Waterloo into making errors. Aylesford led 15-0 but In a fascinating and even match, Hammersmith & Waterloo hit back to score three tries and a conversion to Fulham took first blood with a try for Helen Clewer which take the lead. With ten minutes left on the clock, Aylesford CUMBRIA SCHOOLS went unconverted. Romford & Guidea Park, however, dug deep and went over for another two tries. FINALS

Last month (April) saw the finals day of the Cumbria Schools Competition at Penrith RUFC when four fine teams met to battle the club’s junior section running a experience of the Kingfisher’s side Alcester RFC raised £8,433 for the honours. for Help for Heroes at their well-stocked cake stall. proving too much for their generally Queen Elizabeth School, Kirkby Lonsdale were represented for the inaugural Help for Heroes The Forces XV, put together much younger home opponents. first time in both the U13 and U14 county finals. In the U14 final Trophy tournament last month by Alcester Under 13s coach Paul Redditch ran out 19-5 winners, with they played St Benedict’s in a very tough encounter. Tries from Mark (April), a three way competition Ashford, a former member of the Alcester’s points coming from a second Miller and Reece Pritchard gave St Benedict’s a 12-0 half-time lead between Alcester, a Forces XV Army, played Alcester in the first game Jamie Clarke try of the afternoon. but QES came back very strongly in the second half with a try from and a Redditch XV who ran out and were beaten 17-0, thanks to tries Redditch then stayed on to take on George Lamb. Their outstanding inside centre Dan Smith was unable the trophy winners. from Jamie Clarke, Matt Alderman the returning Forces XV, and despite to penetrate the St Benedict’s defence, however, and Sam Cruden, A large crowd watched some and Joey Cull and a Luke Spencer featuring much more as an attacking for St Benedict’s, scored two more tries. The last try from Ben excellent rugby at King’s Coughton. conversion. The mainly veteran forces threat than in their opening game, Sparkes brought a final score of St Benedict’s 31 QES 5. There were also various off field side, most of whom had not played the Forces side couldn’t score the try In the U13 final, Cockermouth School, with an unbeaten record, activities, prizes and sponsorship from rugby for a considerable time, were that most of those gathered at King’s won with tries from a fast and clinical back line. QES enjoyed the numerous local businesses as well as then given a break, while Alcester Coughton were cheering for and in the majority of possession but only managed to score one try in the stalls manned by 2nd Studley Guides, took on Redditch, with the power and end Redditch secured a 19-0 victory of first half through Lewis Williams. After the break QES continued to the to take the trophy. apply pressure and score through Robbie Nicholson and captain, Ben Marilyn Barnett, regional Darlington. However, despite their lack of territory and possession, coordinator for Help For Heroes Cockermouth’s backs continued to hit on the break and scored a said, “They say that you only get total of seven tries through Matthew Farley (3), Ryan Scott (2), John out of life what you put into it and Irving (1), Jim Podmore (1) with Owen Hoyles converting six, making a final score of 47-15. The score did not necessarily tell the full story the magnificent total raised is indeed of a hard-fought contest but Cockermouth were deserving winners. a reflection of the amount of effort The presentation of the trophy and the medals was made by Tim which went into making the day such Stirk, ERFSU President. a success. It was a great pleasure to see such community spirit, with people from all walks of life and age groups working together with a common aim. To all of those involved in so many ALCESTER HELP ways, a huge thank you! What you have done will make a difference to a HEROES lot of people’s lives.”

MAY 2013 – Touchline 11 ST GEORGE’S DAY FESTIVAL BRIGHTON ATTRACTS GIRLS TO TRIUMPH BUT GRASSHOPPERS MEDAL GOES Hugh Godwin MISSING Tony Simpson

Brighton RFC became only the second club to win all the RFU cup tournaments as they beat Bridlington 30-22 in the RFU Intermediate Cup final at Twickenham, full back Alex Finch the stand-out player with an impressive 20 points. The Blues’ win was a real team effort, with excellent work from their forwards, including prop Jess Tompsett, who suffered concussion in the dying moments and later lost his winner’s medal. However, contacted by the Brighton Argus, the RFU replaced it saying that this most memorable day in his playing MAY THE career should not end in disappointment. Brighton’s winger Steve Dean scored the first try, Finch adding the conversion, before Bridlington centre Ryan Girking was NATWEST shown a yellow card. Finch added two more penalties before finding a gap in the defence and racing half the pitch to touch down and add the extras. RUGBYFORCE Bridlington hit back with a drop goal from Jamie Muro, Grasshoppers RFC in Osterley, Middlesex, was the followed by a try from full back Sizwe Zondo, who added his venue for a successful fourth annual St George’s Day second after dummying through the Brighton defence, Stevie BE WITH YOU Girls Festival last weekend, with 26 teams and 300 Mellonby converted to give Bridlington a sniff at 15-20. Brighton hit back when captain Will Smith smashed his way through girls playing rugby. Emma Kennedy and with the conversion stretched their lead to 27-15 before Wasps and England player Claire Purdy attended to meet Edward Court got a yellow and Bridlington cut the lead to five With less than a month to go until Natwest RugbyForce the young players, offer coaching tips and present medals. points with a Tom Brown converted try. Brighton held firm Weekend (June 15&16) clubs up and down the country have This event started as part of the 2010 Women’s Rugby World with the imperious Finch slotting a penalty on 65 minutes after been sharing knowledge and ideas as they plan their facility Cup Legacy programme, and has developed over the years with Bridlington infringed at the scrum. improvement projects. Almost 175 clubs have attended the more teams taking part and the quality of rugby improving. Said Brighton head coach Neil McGovern: “The lads have been workshops designed to help them make the most of the It has grown quickly from 16 teams in three age absolutely fantastic, focused and spot on. Next season we will be weekend and to prioritise the jobs which will create the groups participating in 2010, to this year’s huge event at playing at our highest ever level and today was really pivotal.” greatest benefits over the long term. Grasshoppers on April 21, where the teams enjoyed the Former England prop and RugbyForce supporter, Jason spring sunshine and put on a great display of rugby. Leonard, said: “It’s an amazing initiative that encourages clubs Basingstoke coach Michelle Amos summed up the sprit, to improve their own facilities and become a true central hub saying: “All our girls had a brilliant time, all the teams were in their community. Every time you go to a club on the Natwest very cooperative and friendly and the organisers worked so RugbyForce Weekend you see the kids running around and the hard to make it a success.” local supporters coming down to help. And Louise Latter, Middlesex Women & Girls Rugby “In recent years I’ve been involved in building work, digging Representative, said: “It was a great day, lovely sunshine and ditches, pulling out tree stumps and re-laying pitches. We’ve some great rugby on show.” had the minis painting the changing rooms after their Sunday morning session. The weekend creates a real sense of value in the community which is what rugby clubs are all about.” ST GEORGE’S DAY GIRLS FESTIVAL 2013 RESULTS: England play their final test against Argentina at 8.10pm BST U13 Winners – West Kent Divas on Saturday 15 giving clubs the opportunity to thank their U13 Runners-Up – Exeter Saracens volunteers for their DIY efforts with a BBQ and evening of U15 Winners – Medway international rugby. Clubs can continue to register for Natwest U15 Runners-Up – Berkshire BaBas RugbyForce and access the online support material by visiting U18 Winners – Esher www.rfu.com/natwestrugbyforce U18 Runners-Up – Berkshire BaBas

It was a great day for the CB Presidents when they spent the day at Twickenham as guests of RFU President, Paul Murphy in recognition of their work for the game. All the better because they cheered England on to a 23-13 victory over France in the RBS 6 Nations. A good day all round!

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 – MAY 2013