August 2013 Issue 159
The Official Newspaper of The RFU
England U20s On Top of the World Stefan Curtis the deficit and fellow Chief Henry Slade’s England proved too hot to handle for the so hard, not only over the past few weeks, reliable left boot put daylight between Baby Blacks as tries from Jack Clifford, but over the course of the season, and they England Under 20s were recently crowned the two sides as England racked up 20 Anthony Watson and Tom Smallbone gave deserve their win.” IRB Junior World Championship winners unanswered points in the second period. the men in white a 33-21 win. Captain Jack Clifford said: “I’m so proud for the first time after beating Wales 23-15 En route to the final England beat hosts After the final Head Coach Nick Walshe of all of the guys. Massive credit to Wales, at Stade de la Rabine in Vannes, France. France 30-6 in their opening game before said: “The lads certainly did it the hard way, they were excellent in the first half and we England had trailed 15-3 at the break but falling to a 31-24 defeat against South Africa. but we showed real character in the second struggled to be honest, but we came out tries from Exeter Chiefs duo Jack Nowell – The final Pool game saw England score 17 half and it’s amazing to get the win. We put after the break and started to build some who has since been named in the England tries in a record 109-0 win which set up a a strong emphasis on performance, and in momentum. To get the win is a dream Saxons squad – and Sam Hill reduced tantalising semi-final against New Zealand. the second 40 we delivered. The guys worked come true – the highlight of my career.”
my year as President. This is New RFU President an exciting time and, with the RFU expands approach of Rugby World Cup Will Promote 2015, as important a period All Schools as any in our history. Game’s Values “The RFU’s new Strategic across England Plan frequently references Nicola Marshall At the RFU’s Annual General Meeting last month (July) CEO our core values and Ian Ritchie delivered a report on the 2012/13 season and Chief promoting them will be my From September, 100 new schools will join All Schools, the RFU’s Financial Officer Stephen Brown gave a financial report and presidential theme. The programme to help more secondary state school children play review of the Annual Report and Accounts for 2011/12. A change President’s XV awards will be rugby. This gives All Schools national representation with over to the RFU’s constitution to guarantee an independent Head of tweaked, with some directly 200 schools now participating. Rugby Judiciary was also approved. related to the values. All Schools was launched by the RFU in partnership with the Rugby Incoming President, Bob Reeves; Senior Vice-President, Jon “When I asked Stuart Football Foundation in 2012, with the aim to take rugby to 400 state Dance and Junior Vice-President, Jason Leonard OBE were elected, Lancaster what the main secondary schools by 2015 and to 750 by 2019 as part of the RFU’s while Bill Beaumont continues in his position as Chairman of the Bob Reeves message should be, he said, Rugby World Cup 2015 legacy plans. Board of Directors. ‘The connection running right through from the England team to Schools that are new to rugby are identified in regional clusters Four new Council representatives were welcomed: National grassroots rugby means that the more we can make everyone and supported over three years with a tailored programme to meet member, Phil Vickery; David McAteer (Berkshire); John Rogers feel part of one big team, the better the momentum will be as we their individual needs, including links to a local club. Establishing (Cumbria) and Notts, Lincs and Derbyshire and Tracy Edmundon move towards 2015.’ relationships with rugby clubs will help the school and club to retain - the first elected female Council member (Notts, Lincs and “I am sure that being part of one big team and one rugby more players and grow the game. Derbyshire). Leaving Council were Willie Wildash, Roger Hackney family with shared values is the great attraction of our sport. I am All Schools will cost £10 million to implement, with the money to and Alex Murphy. planning to go to all the autumn’s countrywide road shows and will be raised through RFU investment, sponsorship and fundraising. The Said Bob Reeves, “I will be promoting the game and contribute in appreciate hearing of the great projects that exist demonstrating RFU have made an initial commitment of £2million and a fundraising whatever way I can to delivering the strategic priorities throughout our core values and creating change in the community.” Continued on page 2…
1 Continued from page 1… RFU expands All Schools across England
campaign has been launched, which will include a Steve Grainger, Rugby Development Director range of fundraising events and activities, as well as of the RFU said: “We launched All Schools to high-profile supporters such as Jason Leonard, Andi take rugby to people and places that might Peters and Maggie Alphonsi. Prince Harry is Patron not otherwise have experienced the game. We of All Schools and Canterbury is the Official Partner believe rugby has the power to make school and during next season, both will be actively life happier and healthier, reducing anti-social encouraging more young people to play rugby. behaviour, enhancing learning and increasing Maggie Alphonsi MBE, England Women’s self-esteem for students. We are committed to Flanker commented: “All Schools is an important creating a positive legacy for students through programme as it takes rugby into schools and rugby and its core values.” gives every young person the opportunity to From October, the 100 new schools will get involved. I found rugby at school and it has attend one of a number of Canterbury kit design changed my life in so many ways and I would workshops across the UK, where they will learn love for more young people to be given the same about the pride associated with the shirt and opportunities rugby has given me.” the game’s core values, and will design their team’s rugby shirt. These individual designs Highlights of the first season will then be manufactured by Canterbury and of All Schools include: presented to the school. CEO of Canterbury, Chris Stephenson • 40,000 students participated commented: “We’re passionate about working • 10,400 hours of coaching delivered with the RFU to bring rugby to All Schools and are looking forward to supporting these • 150 teachers trained new schools by providing kit and the unique • All 104 schools engaged with local clubs opportunity to design their own team shirt. It’s been fantastic to see the impact rugby has had • Half of the schools included a girls programme on the students taking part over the last year and • 92 school teams provided with Canterbury encouraging that the schools are building such rugby shirts of their own design strong club links.” Bedfont Sports RFU Regulations 2013-14 Key Changes Break New Ground The annual review of the RFU Regulations has resulted in ➢ Regulation 15 (Age Grade Rugby) some key changes as set out below, in addition to a number of Regulations 15.3.3 and 15.3.4 - Dual age banding: Amended to Hugh Godwin minor amendments. permit dual age banding of U11s with U10s is to be permitted, in the same way as it is for U12s/U11s and U10s/U9s. ➢ Regulation 1 (Definitions): Regulation 15.4.2 - Playing down: Amended to state that if a player “England Academy Player”: The definition has been amended to is permitted to play down, the player must remain in that age grade make sure it is entirely clear which conditions must be met for a for the entire season save that if appropriate the player may move player to be classified as an England Academy Player. back up into the original age grade during the season as long as the player does not play down again during the same season. “Transfer Deadline”: The transfer deadline date is Friday 28th Regulation 15.6.3 - Season: Amended to clarify that during the February 2014. Season, U7s to U12s can participate in training and Pre-Approved Activity up until and including the fourth Saturday after the start of the ➢ Regulation 7 (Players) Season and can participate in training, Pre-Approved Activity, fixtures Regulation 7.1 – Approaches to players: A player who is under and festivals from the fifth Sunday after the start of the Season. contract may not be approached or induced to leave the existing Regulations 15.9.4 and 15.9.5 - National Festivals: Amended to club unless such approach is made in the final six months of the state that approval requests for National Schools’ Festivals and term of the player’s contract. National Clubs’ Festivals must be made no later than 3 months prior to the date of the proposed festivals. ➢ Regulation 13 (Adult Competitions): Regulation 15.12.1 - Pitch Sizes: Amended to reflect the slightly Regulations 13.2.6 to 13.2.8 – Promotion and Relegation: This amended pitch sizes introduced by the mandatory New Rules of Play. entire section has been redrafted and restructured so as to provide Regulation 15.13.3 - Eye wear: Amended to clarify that players more clarity on the principles of promotion and relegation. can wear glasses or goggles at: (a) U8s and below; and (b) in all Regulation 13.5.11 - Uncontested scrums: Amended to allow referees other non-contact versions of rugby regardless of age. Bedfont Sports RFC who play in the Middlesex Merit table have to also order uncontested scrums if they deem it unsafe for any other Regulation 15.14.2 - Match Durations: Amended to provide been hard at work to grow the game in their local community, reason to start or continue the match with contested scrums. clarification on match durations including: (a) stating that no more and they have made an important breakthrough with the Regulation 13.5.12 – 13.5.14 - Uncontested scrums: Amended to than 90 minutes of match time should be played in any one day; assistance of Hounslow Borough Council and in particular clarify the procedure in cases where a league match or a cup match and (b) clarifying match durations for festivals and tournaments. Councillor Tom Bruce. The club have negotiated permission is completed or contains uncontested scrums. to use adjacent land to their current playing facilities so that Regulations 13.5.16 and 13.5.21 Rolling Subs: Amended to ➢ Regulation 17 (Anti-Corruption and Betting) a second pitch can be developed, and this will accommodate clarify that: (a) 8 interchanges are permitted when a team has up On 3 January 2013 the IRB’s new anti-corruption regulation came Bedfont’s drive to recruit more players to the senior game and to 3 replacements; and (b) a player must enter the field on the into force. RFU Regulation 17 has therefore been amended to bring enhance the already vibrant club to two adult teams. halfway line. it in line with IRB Regulation 6. Joe Quincey, the Bedfont Sports RFC chairman who also plays Regulations 13.6.6(a)(v) and 13.6.6(b)(iv) - Postponed matches: for the club, said: “We are delighted to have gained access to These regulations have been amended to clarify the procedure in ➢ Regulation 19 this land and we thank our local council for their continued relation to late decisions as to the fitness of a pitch. Regulation 19 has undergone a detailed review to ensure that assistance. We are looking forward to signing the final paperwork Appendix 1 - Sanction Guidelines: A sanction guideline has been the principles of IRB Regulation 17 are reflected, to remove in order to develop the land. included in respect of any failure to provide a completed Player unnecessary regulations and to ensure that the regulations reflect “We also thank the RFU for the guidance and support they have Registration Form in accordance with RFU Regulation 14 when given throughout the process. We recently met with the RFU Area what actually happens in practice. Facilities Manager Jason Bowers and our Middlesex RDO Ty Sterry, completing online player registrations. ➢ who have given us all the direction and requirement we need in Regulation 21 order to achieve our ultimate goal of two functioning, full-sized ➢ Regulation 14 (Adult Registration) A number of amendments have been made to RFU Regulation pitches to assist with our development project. Regulation 14.3.1(b) - Effective Registration: Amended to make 21 to reflect the renaming of the Criminal Records Bureau as the “We feel this is a great opportunity to recruit new people to the it clear that Effective Registration is subject to any subsequent loss Disclosure and Barring Service and to take into account the Child game and welcome all those who wish to come and try it out!” or invalidity of such registration pursuant to the other provisions of Protection Unit’s model regulations. Bedfont Sports RFC train at 7.30pm on Tuesdays and these Regulations and is not valid if a player has obtained Effective Thursdays at Hatton Road, Bedfont and are open to all. The Registration through fraud, deception or mistake. Please bear in mind that this is a summary of key changes only club secretary Scott Lawson said: “We are continuously striving Regulations 14.5.1, 14.5.5 and 14.6.1 - Registration Process: and cannot be relied upon in any interpretation of the regulations to develop more links with local businesses in our community Amended to make it clear that registration forms must be or in any dispute or appeal. Reference should be made to the full and, together with our RDO, we have offered our facilities to submitted within 28 days of signature of the registration form by Regulations, which took effect on 1st August 2013, and which are Heathrow Airport Ltd to play Touch rugby. the player. printed in full in the RFU Handbook and are available on the RFU Regulation 14.9.1(e) - Loss of Effective Registration: Amended to website at www.rfu.com/regulations. For more information on how to play at Bedfont Sports clarify the position of an overseas player in a team that is relegated RFC prospective players should contact Joe Quincey on from league 4 to 5 (i.e he has to file an amateur status declaration Should you have any questions on RFU Regulations, please [email protected]. to stay registered upon the expiry of his visa/permit). contact Alys Lewis on [email protected].
2 Touchline – AUGUST 2013 England Women
U20s Stefan Curtis England Women U20s ended their U20s Nations Cup campaign with an impressive 27-3 win over South Africa at Trent College to secure third place in the tournament. Amanda Bennett’s side had lost their three Pool games, firstly against South Africa before coming undone against Canada and USA. But England hit back in their final game to round of the competition with a resounding win and Bennett said: “I’m extremely pleased for the players – they deserve it. We have worked very hard and have improved over the course of the two weeks in every aspect of our game and it was great to pull it all together and perform in the way that we did. “We went ahead early and put ourselves into a strong position and we kicked on in the second half which was impressive. We played South Africa in the opening game of the tournament and lost but since then we have pulled together, our game understanding has improved and to get this win is a testament to the hard work put in by everyone involved.”
Greene King IPA Championship Double Headers Nicol McClelland “We would like to thank the Championship clubs for their support during the negotiations. We look forward to the new Greene King IPA Championship Greene King IPA, the first title partner of the Championship, launches the season, which will also see Sky Sports broadcast 18 live games.” new partnership with a tremendous triple bill of double headers kicking Chris Houlton, Managing Director of Greene King Brewing & Brands, off the season at the neutral venues of Allianz Park, Sandy Park and Castle added, “Greene King IPA has been a supporter of rugby union at all levels Park on the weekend of September 14. The league season is also extending for many years and we are looking forward to an exciting partnership with from 22 to 23 rounds, the Championship over the next four seasons and bringing the great taste The competition for the second tier of English professional rugby, now of quality cask ale to rugby fans across the country. The Championship is a titled the Greene King IPA Championship to reflect the new four year fantastic division and a proven hotbed of emerging rugby talent - we see partnership, has seen rapid growth since it began in 2009. Increasingly this as the perfect time to commit to a long term agreement and help raise competitive, this showcase for dynamic rugby also provides a great pathway its profile.” for aspiring England players, a number having stepped up to the current Said Championship Clubs Chairman Geoff Irvine, “This is a fantastic step New RFU squad and, five selected for the 2013 Lions Tour. forward for the competition and on behalf of the Championship clubs, I RFU Chief Commercial Officer Sophie Goldschmidt said, “We are would like to welcome Greene King IPA. To have such an established brand delighted that Greene King IPA have become the title partner of the RFU like Greene King IPA invest in the second tier of professional rugby is a partnership Championship. The Championship has developed significantly thanks to the real credit to the clubs and all the hard work they have put in since the continued commitment of the clubs and the Union. It has led the way with Championship formed in 2009.” with Dove innovations such as RefCam and live Twitter streaming for fans, which have The 2013-14 season includes two reserve weekends, with two legged semi- helped it become the fantastic competition it is today. finals and final concluding on Wednesday June 4 2014. Men+Care Verity Williams The RFU recently announced a new long-term partnership with Unilever’s leading male skincare brand Dove Men+Care, which becomes England Rugby’s official male grooming supplier. The three-year agreement will see Dove Men+Care supplying its male grooming products to the England Senior squad from September 2013 to beyond the World Cup in 2015. Dove Men+Care is a premium range of anti-perspirant deodorants, shower gels and face care products, specially formulated for men to deliver high performance and superior skin care. Dove Men+Care will receive match day branding rights at Twickenham Stadium including experiential and corporate hospitality rights, as well as the ability to utilise players in activating the partnership. Sophie Goldschmidt, RFU Chief Commercial Officer, said: “We are delighted to secure this new partnership with Dove Men+Care. To have another leading brand join our partner portfolio is testament to the ever increasing appeal of rugby. Dove Men+Care has been developing strong links with the game for the past few years and this agreement will see those strengthened further.” John Savage, Dove Men+Care Brand Manager said: “Now entering our third season of Dove Men+Care’s rugby campaign, we are delighted to join the RFU as an Official Supplier. Having established our commitment to rugby over the last few years we look forward to our journey with the England team, as well as the opportunity to enhance the experience for their supporters as we approach the World Cup on home turf in 2015.”
AUGUST 2013 – Touchline 3 A Wake Up Call On Doping Simon Mills
The RFU is advising players and clubs to be extra vigilant when using dietary or nutritional supplements following the discovery of banned substance Methylhexaneamine in a number of products. Last season two players tested positive for MHA playing in the Aviva A League and in SSE National League One. They received suspensions of six months in the first instance and two years in the second. Players at any level can be tested at any time and the RFU’s programme regularly screens participants at Premiership, Championship and National One levels. “This must be a wake-up call to players, whether professional or amateur, particularly with regard to the use of supplements.” said RFU judicial officer Antony Davies following the most recent case. “Protestations of innocence and disavowal of motive are not sufficient. When a player tests positive, the Aaron’s Legacy burden of proof passes to him.” The RFU identifies integrity, fairness, equity and MORE than 1,000 enthusiastic supporters arrived at was awarded to the Sandmen who had former England respect as essential to success in rugby and aims to Westcliff Rugby Club in Southend for the fifth Aaron wing, Tom Voyce, on their team after a battle against protect rugby from being undermined by doping. Lewis Foundation Rugby 10s and raised thousands The Collective, a squad made up of Aaron’s close friends It conducts a comprehensive anti-doping programme of pounds for Whizz-Kidz, which provides disabled representing The ALF. covering education, testing and results management. children with essential wheelchairs and other A member of The Collective, Patric Redding, said: The current prohibited substances list and mobility equipment. “Every year we aim to make Aaron proud by not only supplements advice for both the elite performer and the grassroots player can be found at Nine teams competed for the Aaron Lewis Cup in memory making a difference but also by making it bigger and better www.rfu.com/thegame/antidoping of Rochford soldier Lt Aaron Lewis of 29 Commando Unit - and we did just that. We’ve already started planning who, aged just 26, was killed in action in Afghanistan on next year’s event and if anybody from Southend, Canvey, For more information about the RFU’s anti-doping December 15, 2008. Basildon or Rochford would like to enter a team we’d education programme, contact: “There was such a wonderful atmosphere,” said Aaron’s love to hear from them. Just join search Facebook for the Stephen Watkins - Anti-Doping & Illicit Drugs Programme Mum, Helen Lewis. “The event has been growing year on Aaron Lewis Foundation.” Manager year and it is a very moving testament to our much loved Westcliff’s first XV captain, Elliott Harvey, also completed [email protected] and missed son, Aaron. Seeing everybody coming together the Virgin London Triathlon in 2 hours 44 minutes raising 020 8831 7603 in memory of him is amazing, as is knowing that his legacy some £1,500 to add to The Aaron Lewis Foundation. 07894 489 768 and his wish to make a difference lives on.” Richard Nunn - Anti-Doping & Illicit Drugs Programme Officer The Matadors and Smithies Warriors competed in the The Aaron Lewis Foundation is a registered charity [email protected] final for the Aaron Lewis Cup, Smithies coming out on (number 115539). 020 8831 7604 top, winning a prize of £1,000, £500 of which they gave 07850166347 straight back to The ALF. A second trophy, the Beer Cup, Visit www.aaronlewisfoundation.org.uk
AASE accredited Worthing carry off Beach Trophy Hugh Godwin
West Wittering Beach in Sussex hosted the annual Under-19 Mixed Beach Tag Rugby Tournament, a BCS national event bringing colleges together to play some tightly contested beach rugby matches. Eighteen teams were present from past winners from nearby Chichester College to those from Birmingham and East London. Male and female students played alongside each other in a friendly but competitive environment. The tournament consisted of two round robin pools, with the top two teams going through to the knock out stages and everyone having the chance to build their teamwork and communication skills. Winners Worthing were able to enter two teams because of the growing interest in the girls’ game at the college. Worthing A made it through to the Cup final with wins over Angmering, Shoreham Academy, Itchen College and Christ Hospital. The closely fought against previous champions Birmingham Met A saw Worthing win 15-0. The Plate Final between Chichester High School and South Downs College was won by South Downs. Thanks went to the coaches, RFU volunteers and organisers for a fantastic and entertaining event, to the players for their spirit and admirable attitude and to everyone at West Wittering Beach Estate, Chichester District Council, Chichester College, the RFU and associated sponsors, for enabling the successful event to take place. Mark Rugman, Worthing College women’s rugby coach, said: “The result for both our teams shows the strength and depth the College has in both the male and female games. “With performances such as these, plus the exciting news that the College has gained RFUW AASE accreditation means there is exciting times ahead for our women’s rugby academy.”
4 Touchline – AUGUST 2013 Egremont point to way forward DEVELOPING and nurturing young rugby players into their teens and onward into the senior sides is a challenge that clubs wrestle with on a weekly basis. Cumbria is no exception. But as a combined effort by the RFU Development Team and officials at Egremont RUFC have proved, careful and imaginative planning, backed by solid volunteer work, can produce outstanding results. Individually, beacons of success have come via Aidan Coulthard, who has won the Cumbria ‘Young Player of the Year’ Award, and through coaches Andy Keep and Andrew Branthwaite, who also received Volunteer Awards from the Cumbria RFU and the RFU. But the true merit of the Egremont effort has been the depth of the success, with teams from Under 8s to Under 16s coming through solidly and making sound progress. A key element is the review procedure which has set the planning programme for 2013/4 in train. “The review allows the development team to tailor future planning and be much more focused in the work we deliver.” said Liam Nicholls, RFU Rugby Development Officer for Cumbria. “It will also allow closer monitoring and evaluation of our impact at a local level when we undertake the same process next year. The club has made great strides over the past few years and continue to evolve through their dedicated volunteer workforce.” The range of support provided by the RFU Development Team embraced All Schools programme links with West Lakes Academy and the mentoring of the coaching team, including the delivery of a Scrum Factory course for 42 candidates. A focus on Under 8 rugby as the crucial starting point included the training of five new coaches and a closer tie-up with local primary schools, while at Under 13 level, Balfour School Take where competition for hearts and minds is especially keen, providing a quality experience paid strong player retention dividends. Further up the age-range to Under 16s, the club recognises that the battle is Title Back to Brighton by no means over and continued resourcefulness and manpower is needed to bring the on-going project to fruition. With Brighton a venue for Rugby World Cup 2015 there was more proud of my team and parents who embraced the two children, The 2012/13 season has, however, set the benchmark for the club cause for celebration when Balfour School from Brighton and their mums and brother from the Isle of Man.” and the county and may well become a blueprint for future rugby Hove beat the seemingly unstoppable Stanley Primary School, The tournament, run in partnership with the Child Victims of development across the county. Teddington, in the Tag to Twickenham finals at Rugby School. Crime national police children’s charity, is now in its 11th year and Stanley had won the title for three successive years but, with gives youngsters from across England a rare opportunity to play at scores level, Balfour secured victory with an extra time try. Both the birthplace of the game of rugby union. The Finals Day involved teams’ achievements will now see them appear in a curtain- over 280 children from 24 primary schools. raiser before England’s QBE International against Australia at This year’s finals also saw 16 young leaders from Blessed George Twickenham Stadium in November. Napier Catholic School officiating. Adam White from the school Balfour’s coach, Lee Stevenson, responsible for introducing and previous Young Official Development Officer for the RFU said, rugby to the school, said that the children had a great day at Rugby ”With so much at stake for these teams, it was essential to have a School and had never seen such a fantastic pitch. They are now high calibre of official to manage the games and the enthusiastic looking forward to touring Twickenham Stadium and running out spectators. The 16 year 10 students certainly rose to the challenge onto the hallowed turf, the experience of a lifetime. and did both their school and North Oxfordshire proud. Wrington C of E Primary School won the Spirit of Rugby Award, Said Ashley Banks one of the young officials and a sports the team from North Somerset having welcomed two players from ambassador. “I thoroughly enjoyed being able to apply my The Buchan School on the Isle of Man, the rest of the team having officiating skills in such a demanding and high quality environment. missed the tournament when their plane was grounded. This was I would recommend it to other leaders, who would enjoy and especially disappointing as they had beaten 40 teams from 29 benefit from refereeing such quality rugby. I am over the moon to other primary schools on the island to earn the trip. have been given this opportunity.” Wrington had a squad of nine so teacher Becky Matthews stepped in to offer the Buchan School boys the chance to join The results from Finals Day were: them. Said Becky: “I asked the parents and boys if they would Cup Winners - Balfour School, Brighton and Hove like to join us– they did and played superbly. The whole team Cup Runner Up - Stanley Primary School, Teddington, Middlesex bonded quickly and it felt like the boys from The Buchan School Plate Winners - Baildon CE Primary School, West Yorkshire had been with us throughout the tournament. The children had an Bowl Winners - Bleak Hill School, Merseyside absolutely wonderful day, lots of fun and thoroughly enjoyed the Shield Winners - Bream Primary School, Forest of Dean rugby. It was an amazing experience for all. I was also extremely Spirit of Rugby - Wrington C of E Primary School, North Somerset Ian Marr, Aiden Coulthard and Liam Nicholls
through their O2 Touch Programme. Whitby had players returning the sight of 12 players and 10 spectators from the club for the North Yorkshire from Scarborough College, Wetherby had four players back home Northallerton event was a real boost. General recruitment also for the summer and Knaresborough used it as a development day to came via the signing up on the day of six players not currently encourage the younger members of the club to experience sevens. having club affiliations. Students Knaresborough are moving into a brand new clubhouse this Four Yorkshire Society officials led by Thomas Doig handled the season having been a pub team since their formation over 20 refereeing duties, while Northallerton were perfect hosts and years ago. They are playing in Yorkshire 5 at Level 11 and are provided the physio cover, ran the bar and had their club President, Reunited keen to expand their player pool in this target age-group, so Chairman and another committee member manning the barbeque. Tony Simpson
At Northallerton RUFC the North Yorkshire Returning Students Sevens Festival reunited around 70 players. Six teams took part, two school old boys teams and four North Yorkshire club teams comprising 18 to 24 year olds and containing a mixture of current players and returning students. Teams from Richmond School Old Boys, Ripon Grammar School Old Boys, Northallerton RFC, Knaresborough RFC, Wetherby RFC and Whitby RFC played four matches each, the Old Boys teams reached the final, where Ripon edged out Richmond 14-7 after a closely fought finale. Richmond Old Boys set the standard when they arrived in their own bus, with 12 players and two members of staff and their families in support. A number of the Richmond players work away, including one on the North Sea oil rigs. The Ripon OB team had a number of players who last played together at school five years ago. For one it was his first game since school and he travelled back up from London and for the first time play with his 18-year-old brother and his brother-in-law. The four club teams all had players returning from university or college, while Northallerton had three new players recruited
AUGUST 2013 – Touchline 5 Oxford University Novices Great Touch
Oxford University Annual Mixed Touch Competition’s 10th edition attracted the largest ever entry, with 32 teams in the four tiered cup competition held at Iffley Road after an eight-week O2 Touch Series lead up. Oxford University RFC launched its O2 Touch to coincide with their Trinity (summer) term, introducing novices to the game. Each team was allowed two experienced players, the rest were either complete novices or those who hadn’t played since school. Weekly touch rugby festivals at Oxford University Parks in the centre of Oxford saw 15 teams sign up, with over 120 novices playing. Throughout the term attendances exceeded 100 in each festival, with five well over 120. The Touch Competition is usually contested by traditional rugby colleges. However, this year teams from the O2 Touch Series entered too, with 32 teams and over 250 students turning out. Following the first and second rounds the competition split in to four separate knockout competitions: Cup, Plate, Bowl and Spoon and it was soon evident that the teams who had participated in the O2 Touch Series would feature in the latter Rugby Arrives at Irlam & stages of the competition. The Spoon Final was contested between two O2 Touch Series stalwarts, Hertford 1s and The Drongoes 1s (one of 3 teams Cadishead College from Exeter College), Hertford winning. The Bowl Final saw the Tony Simpson held by the RFU at St Mary’s RC High school and Tyldesley RFC, Drongoes 2s beating college team Lady Margaret Hall. The Plate where they took part in several contact games, with the Year 7/8 Final saw last year’s Cup Champions New College take on one of IRLAM & Cadishead College’s recent tie-up with the RFU has girls making it to the final. the strongest O2 Touch Series teams, Earth Sciences in an exciting brought major dividends. Staff changes in the PE department “The Year 7/8 girls also competed in a Borough Contact Rugby match, New College prevailing. were the catalyst for rugby’s arrival, the initial contacts with the festival alongside two other schools and most recently won a place The Cup Final saw Oxford University Netball Club, who had RFU development staff and the local club, Eccles RUFC, bringing a at the Greater Manchester Summer Games Tag Rugby competition excelled in the O2 Touch Series, take on Pembroke College, the £1,000 grant to give rugby union a foothold in the curriculum. after winning the Borough Tag Rugby festival held at Eccles RFC.” That came in the shape of touch rugby for boys and girls as the Mandy Bawden is looking to take her Level 1 Rugby Coaching college embraced rugby union for the first time thanks to the course in order to teach rugby within the PE curriculum and is also efforts of PE teacher Mandy Bawden. Contact with the RFU’s Rugby hoping to get the girls involved in more RFU games and festivals. Development Officer for Greater Manchester, Andrew Soutar, followed The successful partnership has resulted in at least seven girls and that in turn brought Sam Simpson, a casual RFU coach from nearby becoming members of Eccles RFC, where they train regularly with Eccles RUFC, into the school, to work with the boys and provide the the club’s Under 13 team. girls with a taste of the burgeoning women and girls’ game. Said Mrs Bawden. “Sam Simpson has done a fantastic job with The RFU grant was spent on kit, equipment and will also be used for the students, with a number looking to continue their involvement transport costs in the coming season. The coaches provided training with rugby at Eccles RFC. We have also been in touch with the and coaching sessions for girls in Years 7, 8 and 10 and as a result of Colleges Development Officer Josh Cammiss about fixtures and the grant aid, coaching has also been delivered to 6th form students. have entered a team in the Greater Manchester Developing “The school has welcomed having a rugby coach in school with Colleges League. Our Head Teacher, John Ferguson, is very keen open arms,” said RDO Soutar. “The girls have entered into a variety for the rugby to continue for both girls and boys and is looking of competitions, among them Year 7/8, 10/11 rugby tournaments forward to more success next year!”
game ending in extra time. Every minute of extra time without a score saw the removal of one player from each team, while ensuring that at least one woman remained. After five minutes both teams were down to just two players. The deadlock remained for a further two minutes before Sam Wareham, Greyhounds’ & U21s’ winger and an Athletics Blue slipped through a gap to elude the despairing dive of Pembroke Captain Sam Dumigan and clinch victory for the University Netball Club. This was testament to the success of the O2 Touch programme with non-rugby players not only enjoy playing touch but excelling. The Oxford University Mixed Touch trophy will now sit alongside this year’s netball varsity match trophy. Tim Stevens, General Manager of Oxford University RFC who said: “Sam Hitchings of Exeter College was presented with the Oxford University O2 Touch Volunteer award, having ensured three teams entered from his college. Our Rugby Development Officer Sean Morris led the O2 Touch Series, ably assisted by the Oxford University Referee Society and volunteers who gave up their time to referee and coordinate the matches each week.” Rolling Subs Kidderminster for National Bedfellows Aid Cancer Research U20s ROLLING substitutions will be introduced into the Paul Bolton via Stourport. Most were dressed as nurses in memory of Zoe Lloyd, National Under 20 RU Championship next season the mother of Under 16 player George, a nurse who died recently as the RFU elects to extend the option first trialled KIDDERMINSTER Carolians raised around £5,000 for Breast Cancer from breast cancer and the motivation for the charity event. in the senior County Championship in 2010. Research with a sponsored bed push from Worcester to their “We are still collecting sponsorship money but it looks like Under the system, each team is allowed to make up Marlpool Lane headquarters. The 50-strong contingent included we will raise around £5,000,” said Kidderminster spokesman to 12 interchanges per game, with players allowed players from the club’s Under 16 and Under 15 teams, parents Mark Murphy. We raised £675 from a bucket collection on the to return to action having already been substituted. and coaches, among them Colts coach Rod Yapp, father of former day alone and we made such progress that we were ahead of The National Under 20 Shield will start earlier this England Women’s international Jo Yapp, who pushed the bed 16 schedule and we decided to go into Stourport centre which season with the opening round of pool matches miles from the Claines island in Worcester back to Kidderminster added three or four miles to the journey.” scheduled for November 17, 2013.
6 Touchline – AUGUST 2013 The club link was re-established in 1955, and Hot Action on Morecambe Beach A Century has continued each year in Stratford and Paris alternately, with matches played for The Rose Tony Simpson of Entente Cup, donated by the then Club President A G (Sonny) Rose, in memory of his father Beach tag rugby Cordiale G H Rose, a distinguished full back for Stratford blossoms when
and the Midland Counties. Veterans, Minis and temperatures soar The annual rugby match between Stratford Juniors have also taken part in the exchange and so it proved at upon Avon RFC and Sporting Club Universitaire and this visit was graced by a Veterans opener Morecambe when a de France (SCUF) from Paris has a history before the main game. record attendance stretching back over 100 years. SCUF play at Level 6 in the French Federation of 12 teams and 120 The first matches were played in the 1905- matching Stratford’s RFU status and recent players braved record 06 season to celebrate the 10th anniversary honours were pretty even with the main fixture temperatures. of SCUF. The club and town gave the French won by the home side 22-12 and SRFC Legends The field included visitors a very warm initial welcome, meeting losing narrowly to their French counterparts returning teams Bondys them at the railway station, and decorating 10-12. It’s hoped to arrange the visit of a Colts Beachtrotters, Arnside streets and the town hall in red, white and squad next season to give younger players Warriors, Vikings and blue bunting, Union Jacks and Tricolores, with their first taste of this very special relationship Baywatch, with two a civic banquet graced by the famous novelist between the two clubs. A wonderful Stratford teams from Heysham Atoms taking advantage of a free weekend in their Summer RL programme to Marie Corelli. The return trip to Paris was also weekend was enjoyed by all and now thoughts return to the event after a year out. New teams came from Lancaster Royal Grammar School 6th Form, a great success. turn to Paris next Spring. Scough Dogs (Myerscough College), Garstang RUFC, FGH Spartans Security, Vale of Lune Tag Ons and Dogies, a team from the University of Cumbria. With 10ft plastic rugby posts adding authenticity and the sun shining, a competitive tournament unfolded via two leagues of six teams. Group A was won by Atoms A, who pipped Vale of Lune Tag Ons for top spot, while Group B was a lot tighter with Atoms B just edging out Lancaster Royal GS. Each team played one more game against the respective team in the other group, but all eyes were on the all Heysham Atoms final with the title and bragging rights at stake. Atoms B went into a 4-1 lead in the 10 minute game, refereed superbly by Roscoe Travis, but some entertaining play by Atoms A brought it back to 4-4 by the full-time whistle to set up a Golden Try finale. Atoms A won the toss and the ball and, scored the winning try to regain the trophy they last won in 2011. RFU Community Rugby Coach, Martin Powell, who organised the event, said: “It was the biggest Morecambe Beach Rugby yet. By the end of the day a lot of players would have preferred to play the games in the sea but with the interest generated, we will be looking to grow it even more with a Juniors League and possibly a Ladies Only League to attract even more potential players. Thanks go to all referees, spectators who stayed on the beach to watch, players and team organisers.” Further details from Martin Powell on [email protected] or 07894489418. Pic credit PPAUK More than 80 bid to be Rugby World Cup 2015 Team Bases Laura Brown Debbie Jevans, England Rugby 2015 CEO, commented: “Team Bases will play a pivotal role in the Tournament and we are delighted to see such a England Rugby 2015 has welcomed the high level of interest and strong response rate to the search and selection programme. We want to enthusiasm shown in response to the Team Base search and selection identify high quality facilities across the country to ensure the teams have programme, launched in April this year. Team Bases will play a key role the best possible platform to compete at Rugby World Cup 2015. As an within Rugby World Cup 2015; hosting the 20 competing teams and organising committee we are fully committed to meeting the needs of all taking the Tournament to local communities across the country. competing players, ensuring that we deliver to the best possible standards. A Team Base will consist of five component parts including; an outdoor “With applications received from schools, universities, colleges, rugby and indoor training facility, hotel, swimming pool and gym. England Rugby clubs and local authorities from over 30 English counties and within Wales, we can already see the fantastic regional engagement opportunities Team Bases will provide – we want to take the teams, the Tournament and the Game of Rugby as far and wide as possible in 2015 so we are really encouraged by the response.” Bernard Lapasset, Rugby World Cup Limited Chairman, added: “The strong interest from parties interested in becoming a Rugby World Cup 2015 Team Base reflects the enormous prestige of the Rugby World Cup brand and an event that is set to capture the hearts and minds of people the length and breadth of the nation and beyond.” “While the match venues are the stages on which the 20 participating nations will showcase the sport and character-building values, the Team Ugo’s Bases will deliver the important platform to ensure all our players are ready to perform to their full potential. I am delighted that this submission reflects Surprise Visit the superb sporting facilities in England and Wales, but also the depth and warmth of the welcome that the teams will receive.” Harlequins winger Ugo Monye recently visited the club’s 6,000th member for the coming season to show his appreciation. The Darling family were 2015 will identify up to 50 Team Bases across the country, providing the among 6,700 signing up for the new 20 competing teams with a variety of Team Base locations. membership scheme launched in May. With over 80 applications received from a wide range of rugby clubs, Making a surprise visit to deliver the schools, colleges, universities, local authorities and established training Darlings’ membership cards, Ugo also complexes, England Rugby 2015 is now evaluating all applications and handed over a 2012-13 match shirt and conducting detailed site visits. With clear Team Base criteria, and an his personalised warm-up top from last ambition to identify the highest quality facilities to ensure optimum season and replica shirts for three-year- Tournament training locations, England Rugby 2015 is determined to set old Mia and Sam, 18 months. new standards for Team Bases. He said: “It was great to meet Jonathan, Team Base locations will range from close proximity to a particular match Lindsay, Mia and Sam and to be able to venue, centrally located between match venues, or outside of a Host City to thank them in person on behalf of the club provide a different training environment away from the hub of Tournament activity. With applications received from facilities in more than 30 English was brilliant. I’m looking forward to seeing counties and within Wales, there is a fantastic opportunity to bring Rugby the Darling family and the other thousands World Cup to all corners of the country and make this a truly regional event. of new and renewing members at the Twickenham Stoop this September.” Since the Membership launch in May, For all the latest Rugby World Cup 2015 over 7,400 supporters have become members, with a guaranteed seat at every news, ticket and volunteering information regular season home match and a host of benefits bringing a much improved join The Front Row – relationship with the club.
www.rugbyworldcup.com/frontrow For full details visit www.getclosertoharlequins. com or call 0208 7744 4477
AUGUST 2013 – Touchline 7 Thornbury Says Thank You
Thornbury RFC’s Golden Jubilee Match against Bristol Former Players last month (July), was preceded by founder member Iva Hall being presented with the Tom Arnold Trophy for services to rugby. An aero engine designer and part of the design team on Concorde’s Rolls-Royce engines, Tom never played for Thornbury but has scarcely missed a game. He served as Treasurer for the first 44 years of the South Gloucestershire’s club’s existence, still runs the lineran the line for for the First XV in his eighties and continues to raise valuable club funds. He was presented with the trophy by Derek Neate, Chairman of the Bristol Rugby Former Players. In the rugby match Bristol Rugby Former Players defeated a Thornbury President’s XV 50-33
Girls Gain from Surrey Games Hugh Godwin reporting that 70 girls took part, he England Women’s scrum half La Toya predicted: “I am sure it will feature again in Mason handed out medals and trophies, Girls’ rugby made its first appearance 2014 and beyond”. including a Fair Play award to Katie Frost at the Surrey Youth Games this year, as The event was run jointly by Hannah (Waverley Borough), for showing great part of the event sponsored by P&G that Sprake from Active Surrey, and the Surrey sportsmanship throughout. Guildford encompassed a variety of different sports RFU Community Rugby Coaches. Matches Borough won the tournament, having at Surrey Sports Park in Guildford. were refereed by students from Godalming gone through the competition unbeaten, The format for the rugby tournament College, Tom Crawford, Dom Popham, Matt displaying superb teamwork and excellent was Year 7 & 8 Girls Tag + Rugby, and Tye and Sam Crook, from this year’s RFU handling skills, with their player Georgia with community rugby coach Mike Marsh Volunteer Development Programme. Newman ‘Best Player of the Day’. Letchworth Legends cycle Devilish Land’s End to John o’Groats Development
‘Le Tour de Legends’ saw Letchworth Deepings RUFC, based in Deeping St James, Rugby Club Physio Garry Tucker, Chairman Lincolnshire, is home to the recently promoted Dave Sharp and first team star Sam Moat Deepings Devils ladies’ rugby team. Formed in 2005, complete the 978 miles cyle from Land’s they played friendly matches until joining a league End to John o Groats in just 13 days, raising in 2007. Winning their league undefeated that first some £8000 for Cancer Research UK and year, at the end of last season they were promoted to Letchworth Rugby Club Development. the National Championship South East North One Cycling between 70 and 80 miles per league, under captain Gemma Hempstead. day, they tackled the hills of Cornwall and Says their new team captain for 2013/14 Amy Tinn, “We Devon, with Garry’s wife Carolyn Tucker attracted ten new players last season, many who hadn’t driving the support bus before Julie Sharp played rugby before and everyone has worked so hard to get , Dave’s wife, joined the support crew. Across the Severn Bridge and on through us promoted. Our training has continued throughout the Ludlow, Northwich and Lancaster and over summer to ensure we are match fit and really ready for new the famous Shap pass they roade. Once challenges. We welcome players aged 18 years and over, into Scotland they headed to Greenock and no matter whether they have played rugby before and will across to Inveraray and onwards to Fort support them with our twice weekly training sessions. William. They cycled along the Great Glen For more information visit www.deepingsrufc.co.uk and Loch Ness finally turning through Brora Pic credit - A Buchan and the Helmsdale pass to Thurso. On the last 20 miles the cyclists were joined by other members of Letchworth Rugby Club, including Club President Brian Burke, Ex-First Team player Andrew Atkinson and Di Winwood (wife of the famous Adam SHG Winwood). Once in John o Groats the champagne flowed and at their final hotel they were welcomed by a Scottish piper People along the route were generous with donations and help, the staff of the Bike Hut in Halfords Carlisle repairing Sam’s spoke for free. Herts Rental Group provided the support bus and DB Sharp the cycling clothing. To donate via Virgin Money Giving visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/ Le_Tour_de_Legends
8 Touchline – AUGUST 2013 Young Ref Day Elected Wasps Recognised
Henry Lowis, a Horsham based First Female President London Society young referee, was recently honoured by the Paul Bolton caps as a utility back and also appeared in World Cups in 15-a-side and sevens formats of Set4Success Organisation in Sussex. FORMER England Women’s international the game. She has served Wasps, now based Henry’s success in obtaining this Sue Day has been elected the first female in Acton, in a number of other capacities award is unique in S4SAward history president in the 146 years history of Wasps including coach, chair of playing and as he became the first sporting FC, serving as Wasps’ most senior officer sponsorship secretary. A corporate finance official to receive such recognition. for an initial three-year period. “It’s a director of accountants KPMG in the city, Although only 17, Henry has been huge honour and the ultimate accolade for Day emulates her former England team-mate refereeing with the London Society for someone who has been involved in the club Gill Burns in becoming president of one of almost three years and is now a Level for such a long time,” Day said. England’s long-established rugby clubs. Burns, 10 referee. He is an active member of Day, 40, played for Wasps from 1996 to a former England captain, was the first female the Society’s Young Officials Academy 2010 during which time she won 59 England president of Waterloo. and during last season officiated in the adult game. Set4Success (S4S), set up in partnership with SportsAid, supports young and talented sports people with niminees receiving recognition and funding toward Looking good in their own the costs associated with travel to training and sporting events, coaching support or equipment and clothing specific to Canterbury couture! their sport. The awards were presented by Martin McElhatton , a former Tony Simpson moved the All Schools focus away from the rugby pitch and into the art and Paralympic athlete, playing basketball design department, with Canterbury and the RFU setting up workshops to for Great Britain in the 1984 games and ONCE upon a time the playing fields of Whitcliffe Mount School in teach students about the core values of rugby, the pride associated with the currently CEO of Wheelpower. Cleckheaton provided the backdrop for England international RU legend shirt and to assist the youngsters in producing some imaginative creations. Jeff Butterfield to play the game for the first time and for another England Canterbury then produced and donated a set of the shirts to each school player, Roger Pickering, to follow in his famous footsteps. and the girls took the opportunity to strut their stuff in an impromptu But now the new kids on the block are a group of Under 13 girls who were fashion shoot before the action began. assembled for a West Yorkshire Development Day organised by Community Each of the teams rolled up their expertly cut sleeves to play five games Rugby Coaches Chris Stone, Neil Spence and Dave Duxbury from the RFU’s of competitive rugby, for some their first ever rugby matches. Whitcliffe West Yorkshire Development team. And, thanks to Canterbury – official Mount School beat Brighouse High School in a pulsating finale which partner to England rugby – and the RFU’s All Schools programme, the girls underlined the progress the girls have been making and the real strength had a very distinctive look. of the game in West Yorkshire. Schools in attendance at Cleckheaton were hosts Whitcliffe Mount, Pete Taylor, RFU Area 6 Women’s & Girls Rugby Development Officer, said: Brighouse High, Titus Salt and Upper Wharfedale, with over 80 girls honing “It was great to see such high numbers of Year 7 & 8 girls and the smiles on their rugby skills with coaching drills before playing in a competitive their faces showed how much they were enjoying themselves. The day also transitional game festival. The aim was to give the girls, who had all received provided me with the opportunity to talk with the sports teachers involved some RFU coaching prior to the event, the opportunity to participate in and explain the RFU vision for developing girls’ rugby in West Yorkshire and competitive fixtures and there was a thumbs up response all round from the wider afield over the next 12 months and beyond. The current work being 10 teams participating in a 7-a-side programme. done in linking schools with local rugby clubs will give the development of Three of the four schools involved were part of the initial tranche of 100 the girls’ game a real focus and will also provide rugby for girls who want to schools chosen to take part in the highly-successful All Schools, the RFU’s play regularly for a club.” programme to increase the number of secondary state school students West Yorkshire Rugby Development Officer Hamish Pratt added: “All playing rugby and to create strong school-club links. Schools has been a major success story in bringing rugby to schools who For the young ladies from Brighouse School, Whitcliffe Mount School have never played rugby or have seen it drop off the curriculum and the skill and Titus Salt the hurly-burly of competition also dovetailed neatly with a levels shown in this festival make me very excited about the second batch rugby catwalk. of All Schools participants. Needless to say, the girls looked very elegant in An important element of All Schools was the opportunity provided by their new Canterbury kit, which brought out their fashion-conscious side Official Partner, Canterbury, for pupils to design their own shirts. This before they got down to the serious rugby business.”
England Women’s Coaches Share Expertise Hugh Godwin WOMEN’S and girls’ rugby union in London & the South East took another leap forward when more than 50 of the region’s coaches took part in a Coach Education session with England Women’s head coach Gary Street and assistant Graham Smith. Using the stylish facilities at Old Merchant Taylors’ RFC in Northwood, the day involved 17 players from the junior divisional programme and concluded with a Q&A session with Gary and Graham . All the sessions were filmed by video analyst Aaron Crossman using simple equipment and no specialised software to illustrate to the coaches that they do not need to spend a fortune on kit to be effective. Russell Amos of Basingstoke RFC described the coaching day as “most enjoyable and very informative” and Phil Sharp from Eastern Counties said “this was certainly one of those opportunities not to be missed, well worth every second of the 350 mile round trip”. Canterbury Belles – Rugby girls model their creations
AUGUST 2013 – Touchline 9 Kingston Park women’s touch success Tony Simpson
KINGSTON Park was the scene of some major celebrations at the end of last season as the Falcons regained their place in the Aviva Premiership. It was also the venue for a North East women’s touch rugby programme initially staged at Bishop Auckland RFC and Novocastrians RFC. The event attracted 60 women representing five clubs and six teams drawn from girls and women with a wide range of ages and rugby experience. The winners on the night were Novocastrians, who beat Darlington RFC, but more important than the team results was the overall success of the project. “The event has led to female players not interested or willing to play contact rugby being kept in the game by providing them with competitive rugby fixtures as well as clubs using the touch leagues as a recruitment drive.” said Community Rugby Coach Laura Coleman. “One club Durham Freemasons Ready for More has already gained three new players from the night and At Darlington RFC recently the Durham Freemasons took on local important, of course, but the biggest thing was raising over £600 others have started to train together to help retain and rivals the Freemasons from Northumberland. for the Great North Air Ambulance.” recruit new players by having higher numbers at training. Says Durham team Chairman, Andy Dixon, “It cannot be denied The hard fought game, which Durham won 36-29, was followed Players from Novocastrians, Morpeth, Bishop Auckland, that there are many Freemasons who are senior in years but many by a fun, family evening. “After this great win, we are looking to Houghton and Darlington were all involved in the younger members still regularly play competitive sport. Rugby is get more games against other Provinces”, says Andy, “so if there is programme and plans are in place to use the programme to the latest sport taken up and, after a shaky start last year when anyone out there who is interested, please get in touch” support schools interested in establishing Under 13 teams, we lost to Northumberland in our first match, we have built up university students and other clubs from the North East the team membership and formed a proper club. The game was Visit: www.durhammasonicrugby.co.uk who have women and girls interested in giving rugby a try.
The New Court of King Caractacus By Paul Bolton An ancient hill fort above the town of Church Stretton, Caer Caradog or Caradog’s fort, is reputed to have been the site of the the last stand of Caractacus when the Roman legions conquered Britain. Today should he peer out of his cave up there he might enjoy seeing the newest rugby club in the Midlands preparing to play their first-ever match against Shropshire rivals Bishops Castle. Church Stretton currently have 40 players ready for a programme of friendly matches arranged for the forthcoming season. Martyn Longhurst, a local school teacher who has coached North Midlands youth teams, has been appointed director of rugby with Ben Speake elected as captain. They will play their home matches at Church Stretton School’s ground at Shrewsbury Road. The new club will play in colours of gold and green, with Canada, Chile, Australia, South Africa and Israel. The final, which the town’s badge Panel Refs at was deservedly won by the host nation, many of whose team on their shirts. play for top flight clubs around Europe, was refereed by Shane Established with the Tel Aviv Sporting Lewis with Israel beating Australia by 13 points to nil. help and support of Each referee handled four games a day and matches finished the RFU, Church Spectacular at 11pm to escape the worst of the summer sun. During the Stretton & District Club, trip the group met up with Israeli referees and coaches and Church Stretton Town Four National Panel Referees took part in one of the world’s assisted in their development by presenting a series of referee Football Club, Church biggest sporting occasions after being chosen to officiate in education modules. Sretton Leisure Centre the Maccabiah Games in Tel Aviv. Said Alan Biggs said: “ It was an absolutely fantastic experience and Church Stretton Alan Biggs, the RFU’s Referee Manager, was appointed by to be part of such a large gathering of top-flight athletes from all Town Council, they the Israeli RFU to head up the match officials for the games over the world. We were given a warm welcome wherever we and was accompanied by three National Panel officials, are hoping to see went and the standard of rugby was exceptionally high. It was a Shane Lewis from Frome, Phil Watters from Cheltenham and great honour to be there. more new faces Warwickshire’s Luke Haskins. “The standard of the Israel Rugby team was surprisingly high at training. The four spent a fortnight in the Israeli capital at the Games, and it was fitting that the host country won the gold medal, commonly known as the Jewish Olympics, refereeing both the beating Australia in a hard fought final before a partisan crowd Further details are adult and youth tournaments. of more than 2,500.” available from Around 9,000 athletes and sportspeople from 60 different Barrie Oxtoby on countries took part in what is the third largest sporting event For further information contact: Alan Biggs on 07894 783372 01694 723199. in the world. Rugby teams represented Great Britain, the USA, or Peter Tolan on 024 7646 7231
10 Touchline – AUGUST 2013 Westcombe Park Youth Developing Apace Head Coach Graham Purdy and his coaching positioned to carry the baton into future seasons. by East Midlands Rugby Union, provides players Phil Tagg team have built a solid foundation at the club Purdy adds “Any National competition brings with a genuine competitive pathway beyond their which already has a thriving mini / juniors section. costs with it in terms of travel and in some youth playing years at club level and is a very Kent based Westcombe Park RFC are looking An impressive Academy structure has brought fine cases, accommodation. We have been incredibly strongly contested event. Combe’s double is all forward to the new season, having achieved an results. Says Purdy, “This has been a remarkable lucky to secure essential sponsorship through the more remarkable as the change from U18 to unprecedented National Colts Plate victory for couple of seasons. To reach the final twice was local companies willing to support our national U19 only serves to prove the depth the club has the second successive year. In 2012 they won as amazing but to win both times was beyond ambitions. But we can and will always need more through their youth ranks. Under 19s and, when the competition changed anyone’s expectations”. sponsors to continue this level of success. The And the chances of a hat trick in 2014? Purdy to an U18s event for 2013, Combe once again Westcombe Park is the first Kent side to win this Academy managed a major coup with US brand says, “We have an exceptional squad emerging brought home the trophy coming from behind prestigious trophy and the only side ever to win giant Under Armour, providing the playing shirts and with hard work, commitment and dedication, in an emphatic 15-5 win over Chippenham at it in successive seasons. Kent rugby appears in for the whole squad.” you never know what might happen. Maybe even Bedford Blues. good health right now and Combe in particular are The RFU’s National Colts Competition operated the Cup competition is in our grasp”. Shanahan Becomes Counties Backs Coach Emma Kennedy ENGLAND COUNTIES have appointed Plymouth Albion’s James Shanahan as Backs Coach and support to Head Coach Steve Pope. Shanahan takes over from Jan Bonney and his first duty will be to contribute to selection and work with the chosen squad for the 2014 Spring Internationals against France and Ireland. The 36 year old joined Greene King IPA Championship club Plymouth as Head Coach in April and brings considerable experience to his Counties role. During eight years in the National Leagues, Shanahan was Director of Rugby and a player at Cambridge between 2005-10, taking the side from National Three South to second place in National Two, before joining Old Albanian. Shanahan said: “I’ve always been a big fan of the England Counties andI’m looking forward to coaching an international side and working with the best up and coming players in the National Leagues. There are lots of very talented players who I think could play in the Greene King IPA Championship and it’s about giving them the chance to prove themselves on the big of Developing Player Coaches with the right mix of skills and stage. My background gives me a good understanding of players Quality Coaching attributes will be recruited from clubs, schools and academies to in those leagues and the style of play.” work with this important group of players who will go on to be the Shanahan’s playing history includes Plymouth, Exeter, Bedford Programme for lifeblood of community rugby clubs countrywide.. Blues, Cornish Pirates, Cambridge and Old Albanian, where in “There has been a tendency across all sports to focus on talent his dual role as centre and Director of Rugby he scored 11 tries Teenage Players identification but the idea of cherry picking 14 year olds, when in 22 games last season. Equally successful at County level, so much is going on for them both physically and emotionally, Shanahan led Hertfordshire to the County Championship Final at Paula Rowe does not work well. We have to move to a talent development Twickenham in 2012 and coached Cambridge University where approach, developing the whole player, keeping the base as broad he worked alongside Pope. Take a few thousand teenage players, give them quality coaching as possible for as long as we can, giving the best experience to “The England Counties have a strong results record from that’s right for them, meet their personal needs and not only do more players. From this we will both help to create players who successful tours and good performances in the international fixtures you prepare the most able players for a possible professional want to stay involved for life and those whose future may lie in the so it will be a case of ensuring more of the same and supporting and career but you have probably got a significant number who will professional game,” says Stuart Armstrong, RFU Playing Pathways implementing the plans that Steve has.” Shanahan added. stay involved for life. Development Manager. He will be Backs Coach with the England Counties for the next The RFU’s new England Rugby Developing Player Programme “We want to emulate a key part of Stuart Lancaster’s philosophy two years and Team Manager Michael Old said: “James has being introduced this season will provide a clear and structured with the England team and develop a generation of players who supported the England Counties package of quality coaching for players between the ages of thrive on hard work and see challenges as opportunities to grow through the various roles held 13 and 16. Clubs and schools will nominate players for the and learn. We will be investing significantly in the programme’s in recent years and is familiar programme, to be run in partnership with the Constituent Bodies coaches to equip them to ensure that this happens.” with the quality of players at and the 14 Regional Academies. Kevin Bowring, Head of Elite Coach Development, is keen to his disposal. Acknowledgement An evolution of the existing CB Schools of Rugby, the England emphasise the role of coaching in supporting the developing goes to the role played by Jan Rugby Developing Player Programme has been created following player. “We will strive to put excellent coaching at the heart of Bonney over the last four years. a review and game-wide consultations and aims to provide a this programme to develop the skills and values of the game. Our consistent quality experience tailored to players’ individual needs. philosophy is to integrate player and coach development and to Picture courtesy of The Herald courtesy Picture Jan has been a fantastic coach, enjoying a natural rapport with Encouraging lifelong participation in rugby, the programme support the progression of players to the highest possible level or players and putting in place very will also identify those with talent and help them find the right to maintain lifelong participation in the game.” high standards on the pitch. We direction to follow. are looking forward to James An important element will be enabling talent transfer, Further information on the England Rugby Developing Player carrying that on and bringing his encouraging potential rugby union players up to the age of Programme is available by contacting Stuart Armstrong: James Shanahan own mark to future squads.” 16 to join the game from other sports. A specialist workforce [email protected]
AUGUST 2013 – Touchline 11 Amber Becomes BUCS Sports Woman DBS of the Year University of Exeter women’s Single Disclosure rugby captain, sports scholar, and England international, Amber Reed was awarded Sports Woman of the Year and Update Service at the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) Update Service national awards. On the 17th June 2013, the Disclosure and Selected from thousands Barring Service (DBS) made some major changes The Update Service, which also launched in tandem of female athletes for her to their operating processes. The two significant with the Single Disclosure Scheme. Anyone who outstanding achievements changes that will affect the application process obtained a disclosure through the RFU after the 17th both for the University and her within our sport are the Single Disclosure June 2013 can choose to subscribe (within 2 weeks of country, Amber led her team Scheme and the Update Service. the issue date on their disclosure certificate) to the to victory in the BUCS National Update Service. Championship before playing Single Disclosure Scheme As the Update Service is free for volunteers to join, for England in all the Six The launch of the Single Disclosure Scheme means that the RFU highly recommend all volunteers subscribe Nations matches and becoming since the 17th June 2013, the Rugby Football Union (RFU) no when they next obtain a DBS disclosure through the second highest scorer of longer receives a disclosure certificate directly from the DBS. the RFU. This will essentially mean that applicants the tournament. Only the applicant receives the disclosure and it will be their who subscribe to this service and commit no further Assistant Director of Sport (Performance and responsibility to provide a copy upon request to the RFU. criminal offences will no longer need to renew their Competitions) Nick Beasant said: “Amber has been an inspiration As a result of this change and the difficulties that it certificate. An additional benefit to subscribing to the to those around her. She thoroughly deserves this award as it was creates, the RFU have decided to move to a fully 100% Update Service is that DBS certificates issued through her standout leadership which helped guide the women’s rugby online e-DBS process. From the now onwards, all DBS the RFU (and subscribed to the Update Service) maybe team to their win at Twickenham in March.” applications must be completed online. Any paper accepted by other organisations (depending on their At Exeter Athletic Union Awards Amber also picked up Sports applications received will be returned unprocessed. own internal policies). Woman of the Year alongside Best Team with her rugby team mates. Out-going Athletic Union president Joe Batten said: “Amber led the women’s team to some fantastic achievements As a result of these changes, it is imperative that if your club does not currently use and off the field she was also an outstanding contributor to the RFU’s e-DBS system, that your Club Safeguarding Officer (or Assistant) contacts sport in Exeter, regularly coaching girls’ rugby at St Luke’s School the RFU Safeguarding Department via email ([email protected]) to obtain access. through our Sports Volunteering Scheme.” Coaching With a Difference Rugby union certainly equips young disciplined and my drills and practices learned players to cope in any situation and on my coaching course stood me in good 19-year-old Michael Bairstow is a stead. Although, given the numbers, I had to prime example. be a bit creative. Michael, who plays for Moorttown RFC’s “It certainly improved my coaching skills first XV, spent three months in Zimbabwe and my confidence. I guess if you can coach with the International Citizens Service (ICS) 115 you can probably manage a normal sized working with them to try to educate the rural squad. The great thing is that the kids really population on the spread of AIDS and on enjoyed it and now they have started a rugby reproductive health. The other 50% of his team at Binga Primary School. They are time could be devoted to another interest, in aiming to play schools in and around cities Michael’s case rugby union. who do play rugby but it will mean them Equipped with kit and balls donated by travelling ten hours to get a game.” his Moortown club and having completed a Having experienced “a very different Level 1 coaching course, Michael arrived at culture” and knowing that his Powerpoint Binga Primary School. “In rural areas they presentation on prevention, protection and the haven’t seen a rugby ball before and for my spread of AIDS across the world is now being first session, with three rugby balls, I was used by the Zimbabwe AIDS & Disability confronted by 80 eager barefoot children Trust, Michael is off to study Bio Medicine at aged six to 12. The second session was an Northumbria. He says he will look to play for improvement – 115 turned up! There was just the university and help Moortown’s seconds me, a local helper and a teacher observing out at weekends. Sounds a doddle after his but the kids were very receptive and well mammoth coaching sessions.
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.
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