sign in sign up
<<
Home , Brixham Rugby Club, Cornish Pirates, Gary Street, Hornets RFC, Jon Callard, Katherine Merchant

TOUCHLINE

The Official Newspaper of The RFU September 2014 Issue 171 STARS AT DOWNING STREET GARETH MILLS AND STEFAN CURTIS The England Women’s rugby team visited Downing Street following their victory at the Women’s last month (August) in France. The squad, RFU Chairman Bill Beaumont and CEO Ian Ritchie and management staff from the women’s game were welcomed and congratulated by Prime Minister David Cameron and given a tour of his official residence and office. It was a unique opportunity to reflect on a memorable tournament for the team who lifted the trophy for the first time in 20 years after reaching the three previous finals. RFU Chief Executive Ian Ritchie said: “This is a great moment for women’s rugby in England and the attention and accolades they are receiving are well deserved. It’s been a whirlwind for all those involved in winning the Women’s World Cup and meeting the Prime Minister will definitely be one of their highlights. We hope their achievements will help to continue to grow the women’s game and the fact we now have a group of professional players working towards the 2016 Olympic Games shows the progress that is being made.” Continued on page 2… CANTERBURY PUTS THE ROSE AT HEART OF NEW

ENGLAND KIT VERITY WILLIAMS Canterbury and England Rugby have unveiled the new England kit which will be worn for the first time on Saturday November 8 at Twickenham, when the team take on in the 2014 QBE Internationals. The most striking development is the iconic symbol of England Rugby, the rose, has been placed in the centre of the chest for the first time ever. The brand new alternate kit (right) is also unveiled, with a return to a traditional crimson red colour which draws on the heritage of the England Rugby rose and the St George’s Cross. The alternate kit will be worn by the team in the QBE WORLD CUP TICKETS International v Samoa on Saturday November 22. England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster said: “The England shirt is a source of huge pride for ON SALE UNTIL the players and it’s a special moment when they receive it before an international as it represents many things. That pride in wearing the shirt is SEPTEMBER 29 Fans everywhere have until 18:00 BST on September 29 to apply for tickets for massively important to the players and hopefully Rugby World Cup 2015 through the General Sale. it is something the fans can see and connect with. Members of the public wishing to purchase tickets must first create an account on It’s great that the alternate kit is very much in the official Rugby World Cup 2015 ticketing website tickets rugbyworldcup.com and keeping with our national colours and as such will be able to apply for up to four tickets per match. At 15 of the 48 fixtures it will be we have chosen the Samoa game to wear it in possible to apply for up to 15 tickets per person. preparation for the Rugby World Cup as this may Tickets are on offer across all four price categories at all 48 matches and prices be required throughout the tournament.” Continued on page 2… start as low as £15 for adults and £7 for children at some matches. Child prices will be available for 41 matches including every pool stage match. Tickets sold through the General Sale are not sold on a first come first served basis, and any over- subscribed matches will be balloted to ensure that all applicants have an equally successful chance of securing tickets. Make sure you don’t leave it too late. Apply for your match tickets now. Click here

TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 1 ENGLAND CANTERBURY PUTS THE ROSE AT STARS AT HEART OF NEW ENGLAND KIT DOWNING Continued from page 1… STREET Continued from page 1… Head Coach said: “I think it’s great that the success the girls enjoyed over in France has been recognised. It was a surreal experience heading into Number 10 with the trophy and meeting the Prime Minister, but certainly one that we enjoyed.” England captain Katy Mclean said: “The fact that we have had the opportunity to meet David Cameron shows how far our game has come. He was extremely knowledgeable about the World Cup and clearly took an interest. He mentioned that our achievements will have inspired the next generation and I hope that turns out to be the case.” The visit is the latest highlight for the World Cup winners and the women’s game in England. Following the team’s triumphant victory in Paris, the RFU announced that the England Women’s Sevens players would become professional athletes, for the first time, after signing full-time contracts for the season. The squad of 20 players will compete on the IRB Sevens World Series circuit and seek qualification for Great Britain ahead of the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. Many of the World Cup winning team also attended the Houses of Parliament the previous week where the RFU launched its strategy to capitalise on the growing popularity of the women’s game, with plans to introduce rugby to 100,000 women and girls across the country. With over 100 years of rugby expertise, the Canterbury team has continued to push the boundaries of innovation with their latest Watch highlights of the Women’s World Cup here contemporary design, making the 2014/2015 England shirt the most streamlined kit in England’s rugby history. Read more about this shirt’s technical innovations on EnglandRugby.com and watch a video of the new shirt campaign here. RUGBY FOR 100,000 WOMEN AND GIRLS (SEE OPPOSITE) The new kit is available to pre-order now from store.rfu.com and canterbury.com RFU REGULATIONS KEY CHANGES FOR 2014-15 The annual review of the RFU Regulations has brought some key RFU Regulation 13: Age-Grade Rugby Disciplinary Procedures – Appendix 6 of RFU changes and a number of minor amendments. Changes to RFU Regulation 13 affect adult competitions and, Regulation 19: Please remember that this is a summary of key changes only. in particular, the playing of the game on the pitch. A summary of The most significant change here is in relation to the proposed You should study the full Regulations, which took effect on these changes is set out here Age-Grade Rugby Disciplinary Procedures (Appendix 6 of 1st August 2014, printed in full in the RFU Handbook, and Two flow charts provide further guidance on Front Row RFU regulation 19) which has been reviewed and rewritten. available here Replacements and Uncontested Scrums, also available via the link Considerable time has been spent discussing these new above. procedures and they have been approved by Schools and Youth The key changes for the 2014-15 season are: Should you have any questions in relation to the changes or the Governance and the Community Game Board. The review was RFU Regulation 10: flow charts, please contact [email protected] long overdue and with input from a large number of people A number of changes have been made to RFU Regulation 10 experienced in dealing with youth matters Regulation 19 should relating to cross-union matches and sevens. For a copy of the full Women’s Regulations (New RFU Regulation 16): be much easier to understand. The Regulation and its appendices regulation, please click here From season 2014-15 onwards, the Women’s Regulations will no can be accessed here The RFU has also created specific guidance on cross-union longer appear under a separate tab in the Handbook but are set matches which is available here out as a new RFU Regulation 16. Please review these regulation changes and note the revised The Women’s Regulations have also been rewritten to improve process came into effect from 1 August 2014. structure, format and legibility. RFU Regulation 16 can be For specific enquiries please contact [email protected] accessed here TOURING WORLD CUP APPROVAL STARS STEP PROCESS DOWN GARETH MILLS Although not a regulatory requirement, approval for incoming and outgoing tours has customarily been carried Three of England’s World Cup winners have decided to retire from out by RFU staff at Twickenham. Making best use of local international rugby. England flanker Margaret Alphonsi, second row knowledge and understanding of their clubs, Constituent Joanna McGilchrist and wing , who all starred Bodies have now been given the option to carry out tour in England’s 21-9 World Cup final victory over , will hang up approvals themselves without the need to refer onwards to their international rugby boots with immediate effect. the RFU. Alphonsi, 30, dubbed Maggie the Machine, has played in three XVs To help clubs and CBs, the approvals process has been Rugby World Cups and one and shared in streamlined and new guidelines have been developed. The a record breaking seven consecutive Six Nations Grand Slams titles, applications forms have also been updated to make the amassing 74 caps and collecting an MBE for Services to Rugby. She process easier to understand and follow. will continue to play for Saracens in the Premiership. It is important to note that one of the key changes to the Kat Merchant has earned 58 caps, the 28 year old scoring 44 tries for regulations (Regulation 10) is that cross-border matches with England. The Worcester player has excelled in both XVs and sevens, Irish, Scottish and Welsh sides (Home Unions) must now featuring in two World Cups in both and is retiring on medical have approval like any other incoming or outgoing tour. advice, after sustaining a number of concussions during her career. New Tour Approval Guidelines and revised application Lock McGilchrist, 31, earned her 63rd and final cap against Canada forms can be found here. Clubs should continue to submit in the World Cup final. She featured in the 2010 Rugby World Cup as their forms to their CB, who will either deal with them well as several Six Nations Grand Slam winning championships. The themselves or continue to forward to the RFU for approval. Wasps forward has scored six tries in her international career.

To watch a video tribute to these three players, click here

2 TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 The women’s game is set for an unprecedented boost after the RFU announced plans to introduce rugby to 100,000 women and girls across INTRODUCING RUGBY TO the country. The strategy, launched earlier this month (September) at the Houses of Parliament, aims to capitalise on the growing popularity of the women’s game 100,000 WOMEN AND GIRLS and on the fantastic World Cup victory. JULIA HUTTON It aims to grow the game to see 25,000 women and girls taking part in contact rugby by 2017, while expanding the reach of the game to attract more coaches, volunteers, officials, social players and fans. The women and girls game has seen great growth over the past 12 months with playing numbers increasing from 15,000 to 18,000 – double the growth seen in any other year. It means England already has the largest female rugby playing population in the world. There has also been a strong increase in females taking up social rugby such as O2 Touch, and other informal ways of playing. Rugby World Cup winner , said: “It really feels like something has changed in our sport, and I am hugely excited about what the future holds for women’s rugby. “It was great to be in the Houses of Parliament to help launch the strategy. It will hopefully inspire lots more women and girls to give rugby a go, with many no doubt getting hooked like us.” The RFU will be targeting 200 clubs in England, along with schools, colleges and universities to make rugby an option for females. The strategy focuses on the needs of the grassroots game, covering four main areas: • Ensuring a warm and welcoming club environment • Providing local options for every need • Ensuring that the player pathway is clear and connected • Ensuring that rugby is a real option for females when considering their sporting and fitness options. Helen Grant, Minister for Sport, said: “The future of women’s rugby at the elite level is bright. England’s Women’s team are an inspiration to women and girls coming into the sport, particularly after their brilliant World Cup win. I welcome the RFU’s strategy to get more women involved in the game be that as players, coaches or volunteers.”

ENGLAND UNDER 18S UNBEATEN CBRE PRINCIPAL PARTNER TO

STEFAN CURTIS ALL SCHOOLS PROGRAMME England Under 18s enjoyed a stellar season under the tutelage of coaches John Fletcher and Peter Walton, rounding it VERITY WILLIAMS off with a 30-22 win against South Africa in . The victory over the Baby Boks was England’s third win of their summer tour, with previous victories coming against Wales and France. The RFU has announced CBRE, the leading commercial property and The season kicked off back in December with a 23-3 win over in Harrow, and Fletcher’s charges backed that up real estate services adviser, as the Principal Partner of its All Schools winning the European Championship in Poland in March for the third year in a row. programme and Official Supporter to England Rugby. But while results are far from the be-all and end-all for Fletcher – his emphasis is on performance – he was delighted to get The four-year deal sees CBRE investing significantly in All Schools, the victory in South Africa. one of the seven areas identified by the RFU to deliver the greatest He said: “We’re delighted to get the result, the players and management were great all tour, but the performance was the participation legacy for the game in the lead up to the 2015 World Cup most pleasing thing. I thought that we were on top for the majority of the game, South Africa came back fighting in the and beyond. There will also be volunteering and training opportunities second half but our defence was excellent and we deserved the victory. In terms of the programme – from Under 15 through for CBRE staff and clients within the programme, as well as the chance to to Under 19 – while it’s not all about results finishing the season unbeaten is clearly a positive thing. And if you include the develop links with some schools. Under 20s – they lost one game in the Six Nations and won the Junior World Championship – it’s fair to say that English Sophie Goldschmidt, RFU Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer, rugby is in a good place. said: “CBRE and the RFU have a longstanding relationship and we are “There is some real talent coming through and our job is to provide players who will ultimately deliver at the highest level. delighted to deepen that with this new partnership. All Schools is a key A real bulk of the work is done at the Regional Academies, the schools and the colleges and they deserve a lot of credit too.” legacy programme and the support from CBRE will be vital in helping us to achieve our goals in this area.” Ciaran Bird, Managing Director, CBRE, said: “We are proud to support All Schools and England Rugby. Like the RFU, CBRE is committed to investing in the next generation and helping young people throughout the UK improve their prospects and take part in positive and active engagement within the community.”

To watch a video about All Schools click here

There’s a fantastic new digital home for England Rugby live now at www.englandrugby.com. The rebranded site replaces RFU.com, offering great content and all the news to the entire rugby community. ENGLAND RUGBY’S From the England team to community rugby, the site offers clear pathways for anyone interested in rugby to support, play, coach and referee – helping the RFU to NEW DIGITAL HOME grow the game. The site is fully responsive to different devices, whether browsing on a PC, mobile or tablet. The ‘My ENGLANDRUGBY.COM Rugby’ section also allows everyone to personalise their online experience, including the news and fixtures they choose to see.

TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 3 SAFEGUARDING WORLD CUP TEAM RECREATIONAL SPACES BASES ANNOUNCED Tim Phillips, Chairman of Fields in Trust, was at Twickenham recently to sign a Memorandum of Communities across England are Understanding with RFU Chief Executive Ian Ritchie and England Rugby 2015 Chief Executive set to share in the excitement of Debbie Jevans. hosting Rugby World Cup 2015 after Fields in Trust (FIT), the operating name of the National Playing Fields Association, is a charity tournament organisers England Rugby that permanently safeguards outdoor recreational spaces via a Deed of Dedication with the 2015 announced the selection of 41 landowner. Having worked together informally for a number of years, the RFU has now agreed a Team Base camps. A mix of rugby Memorandum of Understanding with Fields in Trust which will see the RFU actively promoting the clubs, schools, colleges, universities FIT protected status amongst rugby clubs in order to secure rugby sites for the long term and protect and dedicated training facilities will them from potential development or change of use. be utilised by the 20 teams, taking the reach of the tournament even further. Eight bases have also been selected for use during the knock-out phase of the tournament. A Rugby World Cup 2015 team base consists of an outdoor and indoor training facility, a swimming pool, gym and hotel and will be utilised by the competing teams in the lead up to and during the six-week event. The facilities all meet international team training standards and be located on one site or within close proximity of one another. Match venue locations have also been taken into account as part of the selection programme. To see the full list of bases, click here. CHAMPIONSHIP XV TO TAKE ON

CANADA AT SIXWAYS NICOL McCLELLAND Sixways Stadium, home of , our hands but I’m hopeful that with the clubs’ will host a Championship XV fixture against support, we will have a team to really compete Canada on November 2, with the Championship with Canada.” squad led by Martin Haag and assisted by Maggs played for Bristol Rugby and Kevin Maggs. before becoming a player/coach at Rotherham The best XV from across the league will face Titans. With 70 Ireland caps, including in two Canada at the 12,000 capacity Sixways Stadium, Rugby World Cups, the Bristolian became highlighting the talent on offer in the second Moseley’s head coach in June 2011. tier, while providing a unique international General Manager of , Mike experience for players and spectators. Chu, said: “We are very pleased to play the Nottingham Rugby head coach Martin Haag Championship XV as a number of our leading will take charge of the Championship XV, players compete in the Championship and we made up of English Qualified Players across know this will be a quality fixture against quality the professional second tier. Moseley head opposition. We are grateful to the RFU for the coach Kevin Maggs will be assistant coach. opportunity which will give us a great lead-in to Former Bath Rugby coach Haag has seen a our November Tour.” successful career spanning nearly 30 years, All 12 captains were at Greene King IPA’s from player with the West Country club to flagship brewery, marking the second year Nottingham Rugby Director of Rugby. A Level of title sponsorship under the brewer, as the 4 qualified coach, he said: “It’s an honour Championship kicked off its sixth season. to coach the Championship XV with Kevin Tickets for the Canada match from Maggs. The success of the fixture against the www.warriors.co.uk or call 01905 459309. Maori All Blacks in November 2011 showed PRICING Premium Seating £15 – Adult what a fantastic occasion it is for both players Standard £10 – Junior Standard £5 – Car Parking and supporters. The breadth of talent on offer £5 (must be bought in advance) means we’ve got a tough selection process on CLUBS COMBINE LEAGUE CONVERT LEAHY REFEREES IN SOUTH AFRICA TO GIVE COLTS STEFAN CURTIS While the England Under 18 squad made great strides on the OPPORTUNITIES pitch, the same was true for RFU referee Jamie Leahy after Withycombe and Topsham rugby clubs accompanying the side on their summer tour to South Africa. have pooled resources to form a Colts Team The players won all three of their games, Jamie cheering them on for the 2014/2015 season. With both clubs in their final match, having been man in the middle for Western ending last season with a promising but Province versus Italy and South Africa against Wales. small under 16 squad, coaches and managers After spending the majority of his refereeing career officiating spent the summer working together to form , Jamie switched codes to union and is thoroughly a combined Colts Under 19 side. enjoying his time in Chris White’s referee academy for the past This is the first time in its 90-year history that two years. Withycombe has been involved in creating He said: “Being out in South Africa was an amazing and a Colts side and, with a £500 support grant unforgettable experience. It’s rare for referees to have such close via RFU Rugby Development Officer Jason dialogue with players and coaches, so to be embedded in camp Luff and both clubs donating equal amounts with the guys was hugely beneficial. They made me feel like one of towards the purchase of a new combined the team and it was a great couple of weeks, and to see the lads do playing kit, the future looks promising for so well on the pitch was an added bonus. Youth Rugby in East . “I was able to answer questions that the players had about Training sessions and matches are shared intricacies of refereeing and the different interpretations, and I between both clubs and Withycombe Colts was able to learn about how they review their matches and process Coordinator Keren Annandale is looking that information – it was fascinating. My background is in rugby forward to the new season. Most of the league but circumstances led to switching to union, and being players involved are members of Exmouth in Chris White’s academy has been tremendously helpful. I have Community College’s successful Under 16s targets within and am keen to see them through.” squad from last year.

4 TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 CALLARD’S CRUCIAL PART IN DEVELOPING NEXT GENERATION GARETH MILLS AND STEFAN CURTIS has been appointed the new National Performance Academy Manager & International Performance Coach, moving from his previous role as one of the RFU’s International Performance Coaches. He will be primarily working with England Under 20, as well as players recently graduated from the Under 20 programme into the Saxons. Head of International Player Development Joe Lydon said: “This is a newly created post which will give both aspiring and current international players the best possible support. Jon was the outstanding candidate throughout the appointment process amongst a strong field of applicants. He already works extremely effectively with our age grade teams, has a vast knowledge and experience and a proven record of player development. His coaching, management and leadership skills will be a great asset in leading the new National Performance Academy which, in partnership with the professional clubs, is to play a crucial part in the confirmation and development of SPENCER BACK the next generation of senior England players.” Callard played full back for Bath and England, making his international debut ON LIONS TOUR in 1993 against the All Blacks when he scored 12 points through four successful RFU IRB Representative, John Spencer, will be penalties and England won 15-9. His five England caps saw him score an impressive Manager for the 2017 British & Irish Lions tour. total of 69 points, his last cap for England coming in 1995 against South Africa. In He toured with the Lions as a player in 1971 and 1998 Callard became assistant coach at Bath, before being made head coach in 2000. has been a Lions Director since 2009. He later became assistant coach at Tykes and head coach of the England U21s. “It is the most incredible honour to be asked to He joined the RFU’s National Academy in 2005 and was England’s kicking coach for be Manager,” said John. “The Lions have a real the Rugby World Cup 2007. attachment to the game’s grass roots and still go He said: “I’m delighted to take on this role in what is an exciting time for English into schools to coach. rugby. I see it as an extension of my current position and the opportunity to continue “In no time a team is formed from four developing English talent is a real honour. The player pathway has really established different countries, a team with one objective itself over the past few years, and while I will be working closely with the Under 20s and that’s to win on tour. Everyone wants and the players just out of the programme, It’s imperative to keep tabs on the talent the Lions jersey and the principles behind it. coming through below that too.” The team is always in the SANZA countries, at the sharp end of international rugby, so the endeavour required to win is absolutely incredible and the result is you make strong friendships for life. NEW ROLE FOR RICHARD HILL “My squad still have reunions and are still the GARETH MILLS only team to have won in New Zealand. We are the best of friends and, talking in terms of core Former England flanker Richard Hill MBE has and coaching career I have enjoyed working values, it is all about respect. As you get older been appointed by the RFU as Player Pathway with and mentoring younger players. As a proud you understand how amazingly privileged you Liaison Manager. Englishman I look forward to continuing this at were to be among Lions and to still be among The consultancy position will see Hill, a 2003 the RFU as we look past next year’s home World them as their Manager is an honour indeed.” World Cup winner, play an important role with Cup to 2019 and beyond.” England’s international performance coaches The 41 year old was capped 71 times for to help identify, mentor and develop young England and five times for the British & Irish players, between the ages of 15-19, both on and Lions. One of the modern greats of the English STATE-OF-THE- off the field. game, Hill spent his entire 15-year playing He will also liaise between the RFU’s rugby career at Saracens. Following his retirement, he ART SCREENS AT executive staff and key external stakeholders of took up an academy role at the north the governing body. This will include working Premiership club before ending his formal TWICKENHAM with rugby clubs, regional academies, other association with them last year. CHARLOTTE TRUSSON unions, county representatives, government Head of International Player Development sporting agencies, players, their families, Joe Lydon added: “We are pleased to welcome schools and other educational establishments. Richard to the team whose experience as a The role will sit outside Hill’s obligations to the world-class player and coach will be invaluable RFU Council, of which he has been a member to the RFU. He will play an important role within since 2008. our player pathway working with our key rugby Richard Hill, MBE said: “The player pathway stakeholders as well as helping to identify is a crucial part of ensuring England’s long-term talented players and provide advice, support and success at the highest level. Over my playing direction to them.” Watch the video interview with Richard Hill here DERBYSHIRE CLUB IRB TO Rugby fans at the 2014 World Club Sevens were the first to view high-quality action replays on ’s two new big HELPS ENGLAND PROP BECOME LED screens. PAUL BOLTON The 13HD pixel displays have the ability to Worcester prop Laura Keates was given a boost show live video and instant replays, as well as ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup when WORLD being able to divide into multiple sections to she was sponsored by the Melbourne Minxes, show a variety of statistics, game information, the junior section of Derbyshire club Melbourne. graphics and animations, with partner presence The 25-year-old tighthead began her rugby which will link in with the pitch side and mid- career in Bishop of Hereford Bluecoat School’s RUGBY tier LED boards. Two smaller displays have Under 15s and played for England Under 19s. The International Rugby Board (IRB) will also been constructed behind each of the larger She then went on to captain both England Under become from 19 November screens to give supporters even more options to 19 and Under 20. When she’s not playing rugby as part of a major rebranding programme catch the action again. Keates is a qualified lifeguard at the University launched at the IRB World Rugby The 169 square metre, state-of-the-art screens, of Birmingham’s Munrow Sports Centre. She Conference and Exhibition in London on installed and suspended off the stadium roof in also has a BSc in Zoology. November 17-18. the north and south stands, will allow 650 seats As part of the deal Melbourne will pay Keates’s A global rugby participation increase of to be added in time for November’s 2014 QBE membership subs at Worcester and help to more than two million, to 6.6 million players, Internationals, increasing the stadium capacity buy kit and she will run a coaching session at over the past four years, sees the sport to over 82,000. It will also generate an additional Melbourne. Worcester already have close links engaging with new audiences and players. 6,500 tickets for the 10 fixtures that Twickenham with Melbourn, having run a coaching session The rebrand reflects the organisation’s will host at Rugby World Cup 2015. for the Minxes last season. The Minxes offered to mission to build a stronger connection with The installation is part of the RFU’s long-term sponsor a Worcester player to mark ten years of fans, players and new audiences worldwide. strategy to digitally connect the stadium and girls rugby in their Minxes section. Keates said: It will have no impact on Rugby World enhance its engagement with fans as well as “It’s terrific that a grassroots rugby club should Cup 2015 branding or positioning, which will improving their Twickenham experience. It will sponsor me and I’m looking forward to going to Melbourne to coaching the Minxes.” remain as it is with its iconic logo throughout provide supporters with a variety of content Want to know more about Melbourne? Click here. To watch a video of Laura talking to England’s the current event cycle. which will be rolled out in the near future. Matt Kvesic, click here

TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 5 CHELTENHAM COLLEGE FIRST AID AND GETS MORGAN MAGIC IMMEDIATE CARE ROB WILDMAN Olly Morgan, former Gloucester and England full back, is part of PROVISION IN THE the coaching team taking charge of Cheltenham College’s Under 15s in their NatWest Schools Cup campaign. Morgan worked at COMMUNITY GAME the College last season but has now increased responsibilities, PAULA ROWE including helping to guide the team in a competition which As the new season kicks off, it is timely to emphasise that finishes in the Twickenham finals next March. clubs and organisers of rugby activities are responsible “The lads are very enthusiastic and we are looking forward to the for providing an appropriate level of care to the players, challenge,” he said about the College’s part in a tournament which members and spectators using their facilities. It is their sees more than 1,000 teams enter the two age-group competitions. responsibility to ensure that arrangements are in place so that The 28-year-old is combining this work with helping out on participants receive appropriate immediate attention if they recruitment at his old club Gloucester and finishing a business are injured or taken ill, until the emergency services arrive. management degree. He has already enjoyed some success as The level of care provision will depend on a number of a coach when guiding Gloucester to success this summer in the factors but should be based on a thorough risk assessment. Premiership’s sevens tournament. Clubs and organisers of rugby activities should ensure that providers are appropriately trained and undertake recertification in accordance with their qualification, procedures for the recording and reporting of incidents are followed and suitable first aid facilities and equipment WOMEN TAKE THE LEAD are available. More information and the RFU’s guidelines on first aid provision can be found here IN RUGBY Clubs can also contact [email protected] with any queries. It’s not just on the pitch that women are having an impact on Rebecca Davies began the Academy in 2009. “The Academy rugby. They are a significant part of the volunteer workforce provided me with the fantastic support to take on some that sustains the grassroots of the game. As more women take amazing challenges and achieve the role of Community Lead in on leadership roles, they are supported by the RFU Leadership Staffordshire Rugby Union.” While still playing a leading role Academy. Of the 481 candidates in the programme in the in her club, Eccleshall, Becky and another Leadership Academy past nine years 15% are women. Here’s a taste of what they alumni, Jeremy Edwards from Stoke-on-Trent, designed and are achieving. delivered training to help Staffordshire clubs improve their Suzanne Crowley began the Academy in 2006 when Treasurer welcome. “When England hosts the Rugby World Cup in 2015 it for Wellingborough Old Grammarians rugby club and says “The will be really important for grassroots clubs to welcome potential skills, knowledge and information I gained helped me achieve players, parents, spectators and volunteers.” my aspirations in my own club and in my work beyond rugby.” Tracy Edmundson joined the Suzanne extended her involvement to include Safeguarding Leadership Academy in 2012. An Officer, Social Secretary, and provide input to the RFU Volunteer active member of Derby RFC since Curricula Group. The club’s first woman to become Clubman 2002, Tracy’s roles included Colts of the Year, she collected the club accreditation at Twickehnam manager, mini & junior section Stadium and mentored five other East Midlands volunteers as secretary, assistant safeguarding part of the Academy in 2011. officer and club coaching co- Judith Phelps joined the Academy in 2007 as Junior Chair ordinator. She also served on the of Telford Hornets RFC. She was elected Vice Chair and Notts, Lincs & Derbyshire (NLD) subsequently Chair of the club, with over 1,200 members and 17 Rugby Development Partnership, rugby teams. As the Safeguarding Manager for North Midlands the Midlands 16 Group committee RFU, Judith supports Safeguarding Officers in the 72 member and managed the NLD Under clubs. In 2011 Judith was presented with an NSPCC Safeguarding 16s. Almost immediately after Starts Award. Judith nominated seven other volunteers from her completing the course she became the first female to be elected club to follow in her footsteps, the most participants from any one as a CB RFU Council Member. club across the country. The RFU Leadership Academy nurtures around 100 leaders Anna Russell became an Academy participant in 2008. A rugby a year and to ensure quality candidates visits each Constituent coach at Winchester RFC, she also represented the mini & youth Body area every three years. This season sees Leadership section on the management committee. Anna became secretary Academies in: East Midlands/Leicestershire, Cumbria/ of her club and progressed to administrator for Hampshire , Kent/Sussex, Oxfordshire/Buckinghamshire/ JASON JOINS MERGING Union Ltd, where she supports over 70 member Berkshire, /Devon. rugby clubs. “I would not have been confident to undertake the For further information on the RFU Leadership Academy HALL OF FAME Secretary role without the Leadership Academy. I enjoyed the please contact Alex Thompson, Club Management & Governance The 37 new names on the IRB Hall of Fame list include Jason experience so much I continued in the programme as a mentor,” Manager Tel: 07894 4989756 Email: [email protected] Leonard, inducted along with Keith Wood, and JPR Williams. she says. Later this year the IRB is merging their Hall of Fame with the separate International Rugby Hall of Fame, creating a definitive record of the game’s greats and including 37 players BATH WOMEN’S PLAYER AWARDED previously overlooked. “Over the next year and a half we will be inducting some of the greats of our game into the IRB Hall of Fame at events around POINT OF LIGHT the globe, culminating at Rugby World Cup 2015,’’ IRB chairman Bernard Lapasset said. “I would like to thank the owners of the VINCENT THORNE International Rugby Hall of Fame for their support in creating An inspirational female rugby player who has encouraged one definitive celebration of the sport.’’ hundreds of local women to try rugby is the winner of a new award, Prime Minister David Cameron has announced. Sarah Burgess, who lives in Bath and plays for Bath RFC Ladies, single-handedly recruited over 60 young women to establish provision for under 13s and under 15s – the only teams of their ICKENHAM kind in Bath. Sarah has been awarded with a Point of Light for her achievements, which recognises outstanding volunteers who are inspiring others. Each day, someone is selected to receive the FIFTIETH award to celebrate their remarkable achievements. Sarah started to play for Bath RFC Ladies three years ago and was inspired to organise open day sessions for young women CELEBRATION to try out rugby and lead a healthier lifestyle. Sarah organised and supported practical and fun sessions and also started girl’s development days focussing on general fitness and Ickenham RFC, formerly known as St. Nicholas OB RFC, technical skills. will be holding their 50th Anniversary Celebration on Sarah’s boundless enthusiasm for the club has led to her October 25th, 2014 at the Bull Hotel, Gerrards Cross, managing all the social media around the girl’s sides and she Bucks. has single-handedly raised the profile of the women’s rugby in Five decades of rugby fun from 1964 sees them getting the local area, attracting 300% more people to Bath RFC ladies to together for party to mark the occasion. This event is watch matches and try out the sport. open to ALL players, former players, supporters, wives, More about Bath Ladies here partners and girlfriends and promises to be an evening full of memories. Tickets at £30.00 each are available from Dick Pooley mobile tel. 07785 996511 or click here

6 TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 LIGHTS OUT AT TWICKENHAM GREAT WAR COMMEMORATIONS

With the British public urged to turn their lights and in order to support the national Roberts Mobbs, William Moore Bell Nanson, off on August 4th to mark the centenary of the commemoration programme, the RFU will Francis Eckley Oakeley, Robert Lawrence start of World War One, Twickenham Stadium also be facilitating and supporting events over Pillman, Ronald William Poulton-Palmer, John extinguished all lights within the stadium bowl the next four years at both a club and national Edward Raphael, Reginald Oscar Schwarz, and one single candle was lit to remember the level. Commemoration activities will cover Lancelot Andrew Noel Slocock, Francis thousands of fallen rugby players in the Great three key areas: Remembering, Educating Nathaniel Tarr, Alexander Findlater Todd, War, including the 27 England internationals and Fundraising. James Henry Digby Watson, Charles Edward listed below. The 27 England internationals who died were: Wilson, Arthur James Wilson. The Royal British Legion request for people Harry Alexander, Henry Berry, Arthur James If you would like to learn more about the RFU’s to use a single candle or light for an hour Dingle, George Eric Burroughs Dobbs, Leonard commemoration strategy then please click here was inspired by the words of wartime foreign Haigh, Reginald Harry Myburgh Hands, Arthur or contact Hannah Barrett at secretary Sir Edward Grey, who said on the eve Leyland Harrison, Harold Augustus Hodges, [email protected] of war: “The lamps are going out all over Europe; Rupert Edward Inglis, Percy Dale Kendall, John For more information on Lights Out please we shall not see them lit again in our life-time.” Abbott King, Ronald Owen Lagden, Douglas visit The Royal British Legion website here Given the RFU’s strong military connections Lambert, Alfred Frederick Maynard, Edgar OLD WHITGIFTIANS VISIT PLAYERS’ GRAVES Ten members of Old Whitgiftian RFC recently three Military Crosses and one Distinguished paid an emotional, humbling and poignant visit Service Order awarded as well as seven soldiers to the graves of 31 former club players who lost mentioned in Dispatches – each a harrowing, but their lives in the First World War in Northern inspiring tale of Whitgiftian bravery. France and Belgium. Each soldier’s tale was shared with the group Covering more than 750 miles across 25 at his grave before a minute’s silence which was burial sites in just four days, the group laid broken with the words “We will remember them”. poppy wreaths at each grave. A specially- In total, 40 players from the rugby club gave commissioned Gilbert rugby ball based on the their lives. The other Old Whitgiftian rugby design used in 1914 and featuring the names of players who lost their lives in the First World the 40 players was also placed the graves. War are buried in locations including Egypt, The trip was organised to coincide with the Gallipoli and Jerusalem. centenary of the outbreak of the war after it The rugby club’s commemorations began was spotted on the clubhouse honours board on July 3rd with a memorial service at the school’s War Memorial to remember the 248 Old Whitgiftians who died in World War One. The that Tom Hipsey had just equalled the eight service was followed by a dinner in the school’s season record of Frank Benton as the longest Old Library attended by 50 OWs and guests. serving 1st XV Captain. Second Lieutenant One commemorative ball has been donated Benton’s tenure as skipper ended in 1914 and to the while another will further research revealed that he was killed be displayed at the rugby club’s headquarters In in action at Deville Wood in 1916. His name Croham Manor Road, South Croydon. is also inscribed along with 39 other players’ The 40 OWRFC players who died in World on the simple wooden memorial board at the War One had an average of 26. Frederick Foot GRANDFATHER, clubhouse entrance. (died from his injuries, 11.03.1919) was the oldest The Commonwealth War Graves Commission at 38, while Albert Flower (Killed in Action, FATHER, SON supplied precise locations for each grave 11.03.1916, Arras) and Kenneth Greenaway Lewis Moody both won the Rugby World allowing full and effective planning of the trip. (Killed in Action, 27.11.1915, Gallipoli) were the Cup with England in 2003 and captained However, learning more about each player was a youngest at just 19. his country. But the former central feature of the visit. A short video of the trip is being produced and Bath flanker has said he sometimes School archivist William Wood provided and will be shown at a rugby club lunch struggled for motivation later in his career information about each rugby club member to on 15 November, the match day nearest to – until he remembered his great grandfather die during the conflict including details of their Remembrance Sunday. All Old Whitgiftians of the same name. school record, military service and death. The and their guests are welcome to join the lunch Like his father, he is named after Lewis school’s records revealed that many of the players where the tourists will also talk more about the Walton Moody, who survived fighting with were recognised for their bravery in battle with memorable trip. the Royal Sussex Infantry during World War One. “When you play a sport, you have no concept of what it would have been like back REMEMBRANCE in 1914,” Moody has said. “In the last couple of years of my career, I found it quite hard to get up for some games when we weren’t MATCH AT THE REC playing internationals in terms of getting mentally prepared to get the same sort of emotional level that I’d had in previous years. On Tuesday 11 November, kicking off at 7:30pm, The Barbarians will “I actually used to take my great take on Combined Services in a Remembrance Match made all the more grandfather’s Star and Victory medals and significant by the World War I centenary. Proceeds go to the Royal British hold them in my hand prior to a game and use Legion Poppy Appeal. them as a way of mentally focusing myself and Tickets from or bathrugby.com 0844 448 1865 trying to get myself ready for a game.”

TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 7 ENGLAND’S NEW STRENGTH AND REFEREE CONDITIONING COACH DAVE BARTON PAUL’S PHD England Rugby has appointed Tom Tombleson from Super 15 champions New South Wales Waratahs as strength and conditioning coach. Said England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster: “This is a significant appointment as we head into a World Cup year and beyond. Tom has already fitted in well. He knows his rugby, having played to a high level, and has had a great few seasons with the Waratahs culminating in their Super 15 title.” RFU Head of Athletic Performance Matt Parker added: “Tom has an excellent track record in elite rugby. He’s worked with a number of international players and brings great knowledge and experience to the England performance team. He’s joined us at an exciting time and we’re confident he’ll contribute significantly to the squad.” Tombleson played rugby for London Welsh, Newbury Blues, , Oxford University, Randwick (Sydney) and England Sevens in the IRB World Sevens Series. He studied sports science at Loughborough University and obtained a masters degree in the science and medicine of athletic performance at Oxford University, where he was Head of Physical Performance for rugby. He worked as a strength and conditioning coach at Sydney University Sport and various institutions in United States In a different sort of kit, former member of the Referee and was NSW Waratahs strength and conditioning coach between Department Paul Renton attended his graduation ceremony 2009-2014, including the Super 15 championship season 2014, and at the Millennium Centre in with his wife Wendy to assisted the Wallabies during that time. received a Doctor of Philosophy award for his thesis entitled ‘The Identification of a Referee Practice Model and a Pedagogy for the Coaching of Rugby Union Referees’. JOHN LAWN NEW HEAD OF Paul began his research over seven years ago at Cardiff Metropolitan University when working for the RFU, where one of GAME DEVELOPMENT his national responsibilities was for the development of referee John Lawn has been appointed the RFU’s Head of Game Development, coaches. Paul thanked the RFU for supporting his work and Mikel having worked at local and national level in a range of roles within the Mellick, another former member of the Department, for being one RFU. He has extensive experience as a player and a coach and has of his three PhD supervisors. developed strong contacts within the match officiating community. The coaching of individual referees was introduced by the RFU He achieved significant success as the RFU’s Training Workforce in the early 1990s and extended to a selected number of referees Development Manager, overseeing the integration of coaching and match in the five highest national leagues. However, what took place officials training systems, developing a new team of staff and building when referees worked with their coaches had been an unexplored strong relationships with volunteers. area, having implications for how coaches were identified, trained Said John: “I’m really looking forward to taking up the role, especially and supported, leading to Paul’s research. Now retired, with the Rugby World Cup’s huge opportunities to bring new people into Paul attended the National Panel of Officials Conference at the game and rekindle enthusiasm for many already involved. In Game Warwick University at the invitation of Gareth Thomas, the Development we support clubs, CBs and referee organisations by helping Match Official Development Manager, to share the outcomes of to recruit and retain high quality coaches, referees and medics. Our aim is his work, in particular his recommendations for the development to provide accessible and affordable education and training programmes of referee coaches. for people operating at all levels, from a parent of 10-year-old player to somebody who wants to make a professional career out of coaching.” TOUCH OF CLASS AT KESWICK CHRIS HUDSON Keswick’s Young Rugby Ambassadors’ summer touch rugby programme at the club was greatly enjoyed and £380 from players’ collections at the weekly event has helped purchase of a new set of 1st XV playing shirts. The shirt, in the traditional Keswick RFC design, features the 2015 Rugby World Cup Logo and the logo of the Keswick YRAs and on the back is the logo of ‘Keswick Summer Touch Rugby’, now a popular annual series in its 14th year and the launch pad for many a rugby career. The new 1st XV shirts alert supporters to the World Cup and its legacy, and to the dedicated, ongoing, contribution of Keswick’s Young Rugby Ambassadors. The Women’s World Cup brought a great deal of interest and comment in Keswick Summer Touch Rugby, where average tries scored per session were 119, with a top try scoring figure of 154. It was the best attended series, which meant the adoption of an 8-team format. At no session did attendances fall below 75 players with increased attendance by year 5 and 6 players and under-15 girls. Top attendance was 139 players. The final session ended with a barbecue and the presentation of some junior trophies and medals for the 50 youngest players.

ARMY’S SIZZLING SEASON OPENER The 1st Bn Royal Regiment of Scotland secured a resounding win at the Army Tens at Newbury when 22 teams played in one 100 games, at the start of the new season. Many teams had travelled long distances including the winners from Belfast, the 3 RHA and Scots DG from North Germany. Two cracking semi finals saw 1 Scots overcome the much fancied 17 Port & Maritime Regt by 41-10. The second semi had 4 Scots taking on the Army Cup holders 12 Regt RA, who won 22-12. The final saw the Gunners grabbing the ball and holding on to it with the Scots defending, waiting for their opportunity to release their whippets. Prasad struck early on, the heavier Gunners unable to cover all the ground. That established a pattern – thunder from the Gunners and lightning from the Scots. Both sides played their own brand well until the last two minutes when the men from Belfast scored a brace to run out winners by 29-12.

8 TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 The Under 18 National Schools Cup is celebrating a quarter of a century as the 25th season kicks off. The NatWest Schools Cup ALL TO PLAY FOR IN SCHOOLS landmark campaign begins with Dulwich College attempting to win the title for a fourth consecutive season after completing a hat-trick of wins at Twickenham Stadium last season. The PAUL BOLTON CUP 25TH SEASON Under 18 Cup is underway in the week beginning September 29, with first round matches in the NatWest Schools Under 15 Cup in the week beginning September 15. will be defending their Under 15 title after last season’s victory over QEGS . This is the second year of NatWest’s sponsorship of the competition which has again attracted entries from more than 1,000 schools, 130 of them newcomers. All the teams initially compete in their respective Cup competition, with those knocked out in the early rounds haing a second route to a Twickenham final through the Vase competitions. Said NatWest’s Senior Sponsorship Manager Lee Bailey, “We are thrilled to be returning as official partner of the Schools Cup for a second year. As England’s premier tournament in schools rugby, the NatWest Schools Cup has served as a springboard to launch the careers of some of England’s brightest stars such as Tom Wood, and Marland Yarde.” NatWest Schools Finals Day, which will feature the finals of the Under 18 Cup and 18 Vase and the Under 15 Cup and Vase, will be played at Twickenham Stadium on March 25 2015.To celebrate the new season, NatWest will be running a brand new competition named NatWest Future Stars, which will give every team entered the chance to win a training session with three England players during the QBE Internationals training camp during the autumn.

For up to date information visit englandrugby.com Alternatively, join the conversation on social media via Twitter @schoolscup or facebook.com/natwestrugby Click here to watch a video about this year’s tournament. SMALL BUT PERFECTLY PERFORMED They are a small town club surrounded by more established outfits like Basildon, Rochford and Chelmsford, but South Woodham Ferrers RFC, only established in 1981, are like the bigger boys playing in London 2 North East and attract and keep players who love the family environment. They have teams at every age group, three senior sides and a women’s tag team and the mini and youth section has some 250 members, having produced past and present county and England youth players. Having outgrown their original clubhouse, they redeveloped the facilities thanks to an RFU loan and now, to put the icing on the cake, they have added accredited club status to their list of achievements. It’s all a far cry from when founding member Dave Jones said to Derek Lyons “I want to start a rugby club” and they set up what was then known as Woodburns due to borrowing players from nearby Burnham on Crouch rugby club until numbers built. Said Club Secretary Paul Gregory, “They really started something and our dedicated team of people, from the executive officers through to team mangers, coaching staff, referees, parents and helpers have all given their time for the same cause – to develop the game and encourage the rugby’s core values in our TOUR OF KING’S area. The accreditation plaque is a real reward for their efforts.” For the club website click here During the summer holidays 52 pupils, five staff and a sports therapist from King’s Macclesfield embarked on a two and a half week rugby tour of South Africa, playing 12 games from Pretoria and Johannesburg to Cape Town. They took on some of the biggest rugby playing schools, like Paul Roos Gymnasium and Jeppe High School for Boys. In stark contrast, one game was against a township side called the Leopards. Here squad members coached Primary age children through the ‘United Through Sport’ charity. Said Guy Mason, Head of Rugby, “The tour was exceptional and a great experience for boys and staff both on and off the field.” BBC SPORTS PERSONALITY – NOMINATE YOUR WITNEY UNSUNG HERO Do you know someone who inspires people to get involved in playing HOSTS rugby? The BBC 2014 Awards are now open. So why not put forward someone who deserves recognition? Panels will meet in each of the BBC’s 15 Nations picking one winner LONDON from each Nation. The overall winner will be selected from those 15 and announced during the BBC Sports Personality of the Year programme in December. Take a look at the video to find out more WELSH CAMP about the selection process. See the 2014 Get Inspired Unsung Hero London Welsh’s three-day Rugby Camp at Witney RFC Awards terms and conditions to find out everything you need to know. saw more than 40 children put through their paces last The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Monday 20th October. month (August). You can also call 0845 308 8000 to request a nomination form. The London Welsh Community Team, led by team Calls cost up to 5p/min from most landlines (an additional connection leader Matt Walsh and Adam Copperwheat, with the fee may also apply). Calls from mobiles may cost considerably assistance of Witney RFC’s London Welsh liaison officer more. Please note that the last day posted nomination forms will be Mick Routledge, ensured that children from Witney dispatched is Friday 17th October. RFC, Grove RFC, Chipping Norton RFC, Abingdon RFC, Nominations from previous years that were unsuccessful are Didcot RFC and Oxford RFC enjoyed developing their welcome. So if you would like to send in a nomination for the same rugby at Witney’s Hailey Road ground in Oxfordshire. person again please just fill in the 2014 nomination form. Please click London Welsh first-team players Seb Jewell and here to complete the form. Lachlan McCaffrey presented the children with It would be great to have all nominations copied to: their certificates for completing the camp. For more [email protected] information, click here

TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 9 INDIAN RUGBY EXPERIENCE Three Newark U17s recently embarked on a rugby adventure in India. Alex Scott, Callum Slack and Josh Hubbard, with Tom Swindell from Rugby, went to Delhi to support the School Sports programme led by former RFU Council Member, Alex Murphy. They had completed a Rugby Ready coaching and safety course to help them inspire Indian youngsters to play for the rugby club hosting them, Delhi Hurricanes. They coached in government schools for children living on the streets and organised a rugby festival for boys and girls, donating kit provided by Kings School, Grantham. “It was humbling to see the happiness and enthusiasm for playing the game in children, who in Western terms have very little,” said Alex Scott. “In one school we were cheered and sung to by hundreds of pupils.” Moving to Kolkata, they played for Delhi Hurricanes in the All India Finals, helping Hurricanes reach their first ever final, beating holders Bombay Gymkhana in the semi final and losing to the Indian Army in the final. “It was certainly challenging” said Josh Hubbard who scored the winning semi- final try. “It was monsoon season, so the pitch was like a mud bath, with temperatures in the high thirties.” They visited two Kolkata educational foundations working with street children and providing a good education using rugby as a learning vehicle. Future Hope and Jungle Crows are supported financially by the rugby family in the UK and are genuinely changing lives. The boys helped in English lessons, and visited a proposed new site for Future Hope. Callum Slack said “To see the way these children make the best of everything – their optimism, their hunger for education, is really uplifting.” To discover how to benefit from a Rugby Ready course like the boys visit englandrugby.com SUPER SAVINGS WITH ENGLANDRUGBYDEALS.COM EnglandRugbyDeals.com website has been helping clubs to save source cheaper heating oil. money on their overhead bills for the past year. He sent them three quotes Why not follow the example of the 140 clubs who have joined and they were able to come and can access deals on everything from hospitality, travel and back 30% cheaper, saving office equipment to utilities, maintenance and club facilities? more than £2,300 a year. All England Rugby clubs (excluding Premiership and Not only is there a lower Championship) can join EnglandRugbyDeals.com for free and price per litre, the new benefit from economies of scale, with the buying power of all supplier does not penalise members combined to negotiate deals on overheads. Clubs who clubs for placing orders of join get access to a website that lists all the exclusive deals and less than 500 litres. the contact details of the suppliers. Says Rupert: “I have found Leighton Buzzard RFC has already saved up to £2,500 a year EnglandRugbyDeals.com by switching to EnglandRugbyDeals’ cleaning and catering easy to use and navigate suppliers. This equates to a saving of 46%. around. I plan to use it To discover more, or to join, click here or email The club’s committee member Rupert Armitage also contacted again when we undertake further cost reviews, which we do on an [email protected] or call 0870 7552579. the EnglandRugbyDeals team to see if they could help him to ongoing basis.” WOMEN’S 10S A SUCCESS AT SOUTHPORT Southport Rugby Club successfully hosted the second annual Ladies Rugby 10s Tournament at Waterloo Road with six teams exhibiting the best of North West women’s rugby. Southport Ladies were joined by local rivals Ormskirk, Kendal, Liverpool Collegiate, Preston Grasshoppers and from further afield, new team Handsworth. The tournament was an opportunity for teams to give newer players a run out in a competitive environment before the start of the season. The final was a hard-fought contest between Ormskirk and Preston Grasshoppers, the latter narrowly defeating the West Lancashire side to prevent them winning two years running. Southport Ladies welcome new players. Please contact team captain, Lauren McCluskey, on 07803 420657 or click here for information ALDERMASTON CELEBRATES 60TH WITH TOP TOUCH Aldermaston RFC, the Berkshire Club who play in the BBO Championship, within the grounds of the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE), staged their biggest ever event in August, to coincide with their 60th Anniversary celebrations, when they hosted over 120 players in a Touch Tournament. Assisted by Ben Wills, the local Community Rugby Coach, AWE’s Health & Well-Being Department’s, Julie Shurgold and Aldermaston’s 1st XV Skipper Darrell Knight, Aldermaston invited people to raise sides from within the base and to come along and try touch rugby. Two taster sessions, run with the help of some 1st XV players and Russ Bolton, Berkshire’s other CRC, made for some great touch from 15 enthusiastic teams on game night. With the light fading, the Ian Martin All Stars emerged victors in a closely fought final and collected the trophy donated by AWE. Money from a BBQ and entry fees were all donated to the AWE Chosen Charity Fund, which supports many local organisations.

10 TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 Winners and runners-up Cup HAMPTON WIN CRONK-CUNIS Winners: Hampton Runners up: The Skinners’

U21 FESTIVAL Bowl Winners: Wellington College Runners up: Royal Hospital School

Plate Winners: Berkhamsted Runners up: Worth

Vase Winners: Wallington County GS Runners up:

Shield Winners: Wimbledon College Nomads Runners up: Kings Taunton

Plate, Bowl, Vase and Shield, ensuring plenty of rugby for all. More than 400 players took part, teams came from as far afield as Rydal Penrhos (North Wales), Taunton (King’s College), Bristol (Bristol GS and Colston’s) and Suffolk (Royal Hospital School). As well as competitive rugby, the festival provides a good opportunity for players to meet up with old school friends and maintain the social traditions that are so much a

Picture courtesy Brian O’Connor Brian courtesy Picture part of rugby. The 18th successful year of the UK’s biggest lifted the trophy. Hampton had been pushed quarter-final, before Colston’s 11-0 in their The Cup was presented to Laurence Brown, the 15-a-side festival for school old boys’ teams, hard by Tonbridge in the earlier quarter final, semi-final. The standard of rugby was high captain of the victorious Hampton team, by the saw Hampton’s powerful pack secure the title winning 7-0 with a penalty try that was set and the rain failed to dampen the teams’ RFU’s Junior Vice President Peter Baines, who n the Cronk-Cunis National Under 21 XVs up by their dominant forwards. In a fiercely willingness to play expansive rugby. paid tribute to the work that festival organiser Rugby Festival. contested final, they proved too strong for The Played on seven pitches at Richmond Tim Cunis and his team of volunteer helpers In five matches Hampton conceded just two Skinners’ School, winning 14-3. Athletic Ground, the Cronk-Cunis Under 21 put in to ensure the ongoing success of the tries, both scored by St Paul’s in the semi-final The Skinners’ team reached the Cup final in Festival has become a major fixture in the festival. In its 18 years, the festival has featured which Hampton won 17-12 in a sudden-death only their second appearance at the festival rugby calendar. Teams of former pupils from teams from more than 100 different schools in play-off in extra time. This was Hampton’s after seeing off Dulwich College, Wellington many of the country’s leading rugby-playing England, Scotland and Wales provides a vital second triumph, coming 10 years after they first College and then Bristol GS by 7-5 in the schools played in the five competitions of Cup, link between school and adult rugby. CASTLEFORD GOOD COLES LEAVES PIRATES TO GO BACK TO SCHOOL NEIGHBOURS St Benedict’s School, Ealing has a new Director of Rugby, James Coles Castleford RUFC has received £950 from the Wakefield Council’s Neighbourhood who has joined from his role as Development Coach for Greene King Improvement Fund and will invest it in establishing a mixed ability rugby squad at the IPA Championship club . Whitwood based club. It will help them build on initiatives that have seen them provide keep He grew up in Cornwall, was educated at Queen’s College, Taunton fit and taster rugby sessions targeted at adults and children with learning difficulties. and studied Exercise and Sports Science at St Luke’s, University of Steve Ball, Honorary Secretary of Castleford RUFC, leading the project, said, “We wish to Exeter before joining Saracens in a wide-ranging role which included provide an opportunity for at least 20 adults with learning difficulties or moderate physical working with Academy and Elite Player Development Group athletes, or sensory impairment to join as club members and train on a regular basis. The aim is to club and school rugby development, inclusion programmes within form the nucleus of a squad that will be joined by our senior players to train and then to play Feltham Prison and teacher/coach education. He has worked with clubs and schools in Malaysia, friendly matches with local mixed ability teams, like the Bradford Bumble Bees and Halifax, Singapore, Brazil, Kuwait and across Europe and also with Prince Harry on the beaches of Rio de and other friendlies in the region.” Janeiro, when working on social inclusion programmes in Rio on behalf of ahead Fraser Watson, Community Inclusion Manager at Care UK Castleford, added “We have been of the London Olympics. His will build on St Benedict’s success of previous years. working alongside Castleford RUFC since October 2013 to facilitate rugby activity sessions for all abilities. I have seen how our service users benefit from coming to the rugby sessions and gaining new skills and improved fitness, flexibility, communication skills and team work. We VOICE OF YOUTH RUGBY are pleased to help with the new venture. I’m sure that with the dedication shown by the club If you want to know what young people want, ask the new squad will be established.” some young people. This is exactly what the RFU does Wakefield council’s Neighbourhood Improvement Funding provides small grants of up to and why a new National Youth Council has just been £1000 per project for community groups in recognition of their work. recruited to provide insight on the best way to ensure young players and volunteers join and stay in the game. The 12-strong Youth Council was chosen last month (August) at Twickenham Stadium, after a recruitment campaign attracting 133 applicants from across the country. Some 50 candidates attended the selection day to have their team work, communication and decision making skills tested, followed by a tour of the stadium. Phil Burgess, England Sevens player, welcomed them and held a Q&A session on his rugby journey. The National Youth Council (NYC) will volunteer for the RFU on a two year term and focus on projects and events to help recruit and retain young people in rugby. They will help with the development of the Young Rugby Ambassador programme and provide insight and guidance on how best to engage with young people. They will kick off with their first meeting in October, choosing their Chair and planning their work for the next 12 months. We are delighted to introduce you to the new NYC: Dan Fay (18, Hertfordshire); David Lote (21, Staffordshire); Eleanor Trezise (23, London); Jack Stacey (18, Bedfordshire); Kate Marks (17, Devon); Louise Smale (21, Cornwall); Lucy Moore (21, Berkshire); Richard Pulsford (22, London); Sam Alderson (24, Berkshire); Sam Strickson (21, Nottinghamshire); Tuesday Platt (17, Lancashire); Yasmin Proctor (20, Sheffield). For more information on the NYC and their work areas please contact Jenny Box, Volunteer Engagement Manager, on [email protected]

TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014 11 CANTERBURY MUSCLE SAVES RAC PATROLMAN’S LIFE When a heavy Jaguar S-type slipped off a jack crushing an RAC mechanic beneath it, members of Canterbury Rugby Club and the club physio sprang into action, managed to lift the car off and get patrolman Jason Hutchings airlifted to Ashford’s William Harvey Hospital, where he is recovering after fracturing vertebrae in his back, cracking ribs and breaking his collarbone in three places. Said Jason, “Without the help of the guys at the rugby club I would be dead. I am eternally grateful to them.” Club Chairman Giles Hilton (pictured left) added, “I am incredibly proud of the club and the swift actions that members took to make sure this man survived.” Courtesy of Kent Messenger WHEN A HERO COMES ALONG Rugby’s values of Teamwork, Respect, Enjoyment, Discipline and Sportsmanship are what makes the game special for those who enjoy the environment and culture they create. They define the game and define England Rugby. And now the RFU has created a film celebrating rugby’s core values and the everyday heroes who live them every day. The film will help to recruit new rugby followers and WEST PARK ST HELENS AND engage existing ones, allowing the audience to identify with sentiments relevant to them. WILLOWBROOK HOSPICE While remaining true to the roots of what makes the West Park RFC recently game so special for existing supporters and participants, began a charity partnership the film will appeal to new audiences, creating new fans. with Willowbrook Hospice It covers the breadth and diversity of the game, with enjoyment she gets from playing and coaching O2 Touch seeing the Willowbrook five scenarios focusing on one key hero in each whose with friends makes a big difference. As an England Touch logo across 300 rugby involvement with rugby brings the core values to life. Rugby trialist, Cecily displays competitive spirit on the shirts worn by players from The heroes’ stories include those of: pitch but also loves socialising in the pub after a great five to 50. The new kit has Nine year old Molly Stapleton from Surrey off to the touch session. been sponsored by local Marriott London Sevens at Twickenham with her two Matt Blackman, a Colts player at Eastleigh Rugby companies including G R sisters, baby brother, and parents. Fancy dress, family Club thinks he and his mates are at the club to watch Taylor & Co, Henderson breakfast, travelling to Twickenham, playing rugby in the England v New Zealand game. But the ‘Pride of The Homes, Specsavers St Helens and Velocity Heath clubs. the car park enjoying the action in the stands, two sisters Nation’ Fun Day at Eastleigh sees him and team mates Launched at the season’s first home game attended by over 500 players asleep in the car home and finally Molly sleeping too in rolling up sleeves to paint the changing rooms. Free grub and fans, the new shirts were officially presented by Nichola Saunders, her bed, clutching her ‘Ruckley Rocks!’ ball. and a nod of recognition from the senior team captain Fundraising Manager of Willowbrook Hospice who said, “We thoroughly England Rugby Supporter’s Club member Jenny Hale, before cheering on England in the clubhouse. enjoyed meeting everybody, seeing the new facilities and watching the a lifelong Bath fan, supports local rivals Bristol when Ben Blondrage captains Brixham’s Under 12s and game. The kit looks great and we are really excited about the season ahead.” her South African born great nephew arrives at the club. is up at 7am preparing his kit. He meets team mates At the same time the club officially opened the new changing rooms She and her family, complete with Jenny’s ‘Come On in the dressing room, listens to the coach’s team talk, completed with a grant from Sport England’s Inspired Facilities scheme. Nic’ banner, cheer on Bristol on a cold and wet evening. scores a great individual try before being substituted. The official opening was overseen by Rob Briers of the RFU and the team Though it isn’t Bristol’s night Jenny proudly embraces her Disappointment turns to cheers as his replacement scores from Willowbrook Hospice and was the culmination of months of work by star player beside the pitch after the final whistle. and at the whistle Ben runs to congratulate the team and the team of volunteers running the club. For the club website click here Cecily Moore, a Physiotherapist at Queen Elizabeth thank the opposition, before the two boys walk arm in arm Hospital Birmingham, works a very long day but the through the tunnel of applause. CHRONOLOGICALLY CHALLENGED VANDALS Old Yardleians Vandals began five seasons ago, playing against other clubs’ first and second Andrews the side had a cumulative age of 750 many of vets vintage but having played first teams often young enough to be their sons. With years, finally reaching the magic average age of team rugby for either Old Yards, or local sides that league won, the Vandals decided to join the 50, a bonus for about two thirds of the team.” Birmingham, Solihull, Silhillians and Edwardians. Worcester & Hereford Merit League 3, which The squad has lost just 17 times in 111 outings. They simply wanted to carry on playing rugby and includes sides from, Kidderminster, Ledbury, Martyn adds, “’Not bad for a bunch of fat old avoid doing the shopping on a Saturday afternoon! Bridgnorth, Stourport and Worcester. b*******s!’ as a young opposition forward once The side regularly averages between 45 and Says Vandals’ Martyn Cartwright, “We joined rashly called us after scoring first, mind they went 48 years of age, its two oldest players nearing more for the country pubs if truth be told on to lose 63-8 that day. We prefer the phrase 64 and two youngsters approaching 36. In five but, with a steely determination borne out of ‘the chronologically challenged, thick waisted years they have had two unbeaten seasons, and experience and a 65 stone front row, won that orphans’ anyway, which is now our Facebook in season 2012/13 won the Greater Birmingham league, losing just once in 14 league games. page. It just goes to show that you are never too Rugby Merit league title at the first attempt, In one non-league fixture over at Rugby St. old to play competitive full contact rugby!”

THE RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING WHO GENEROUSLY SUPPORT THE GAME

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

12 TOUCHLINE – SEPTEMBER 2014