October 2012 Issue 150

The Official Newspaper of The RFU and RFUW CONNECTED Nicola Marshall Drybrook RFC in , a club that embodies community rugby, recently played host to the eagerly anticipated Canterbury kit launch. Hundreds of members of the local community and national press turned out to see England captains, Chris Robshaw, Katy McLean, Rob Vickerman and Michaela Staniford, reveal the new England home and change kits. During a training session with the captains, as well as former Drybrook and England players and , girls’ and boys’ teams from the club were put through their paces by the players. The juniors made the most of the hands-on advice on technique and training, before picking up some personal memorabilia in the autograph signing session. Drybrook won the chance to host the event by demonstrating what rugby means to their local area. The England is a huge source of passion and pride for players. The Canterbury kit combines the traditional styling that has been the mark of England Rugby since 1871, together with the technical construction that the company is known for. The shirt represents the dreams not just of those who wear it but of the millions who support England. The inside of the sleeve of the seniors, women’s and sevens shirts bears the slogan ENGLAND CONNECTED – a real reminder of the rugby family. To mark the unveiling of the new kit, and its partnership with the RFU, Canterbury also launched its England Is All campaign, featuring a series of iconic images by world renowned English photographer David Bailey. It celebrates the togetherness of all involved in England rugby across the whole game, from coaches to players, backroom staff to RFU officials, fans, and everyone involved in the English rugby community. Chris Robshaw taking part in the action at Drybrook RFC BMW PERFORMANCE ACADEMY ENGLAND WOMEN Nicola Marshall TAKE ON WORLD At BMW’s training academy in Wokefield Park, Stuart Performance Academy will help equip our promising young Lancaster, alongside and , players with the skills needed to succeed at the highest level. CHAMPIONS launched the BMW Performance Academy. As part We’re working hard in conjunction with their club coaches to Julia Hutton of its new long-term partnership with the RFU, it give them the individual support they need both on and off will ensure the continued development of the next the pitch as we work towards the in 2015 England Women take on old rivals France and World Champions generation of English players. and beyond.” New Zealand over four international tests this autumn, with An initial pool of more than 30 players has been selected by BMW will be using its expertise from the worlds of business hosting the series finale on December 1st. the England coaches from across the existing elite age-grade and sport to support England’s young players. For example, England play France on November 3rd at RFC in a one off development programme, through to those close to breaking it will facilitate knowledge sharing with its array of BMW test match. The two sides were equal last season, each winning into the senior squad. The initial group includes , ambassadors, Olympians, TV personalities and industry two matches but England were victorious at Stade Charlety in Anthony Watson, , and Brett Herron who all leaders to impart knowledge to Academy members on a Paris and went on to a Six Nations record win. They also beat France in the European Cup Final. attended the launch. range of topics, starting with 2012 gymnast Louis Four-times World Cup winners New Zealand return to England Working closely together, their age grade coach, club coach Smith on the art of “Coping with Pressure.” in November to take on England over three matches: on It will offer members of the new Academy a variety of work and the player will create an individual development plan, November 23rd at Esher RFC, on November 27th at Aldershot’s which sets out their personal goals and development areas experience opportunities across its factories, dealerships and Army Rugby Stadium and finally following the QBE International for the season. For players to progress they need both a team other businesses in the UK, to help deliver wider life skills, as England v New Zealand at Twickenham Stadium on December environment and individual coaching – whether that’s skills, well as adapting relevant modules from its own internal staff 1st. The last match will be live on 1 HD and there will fitness or lifestyle choices. training programme. be free entry following the final whistle of the men’s game. England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster said: “The BMW England last played New Zealand 11 months ago, defeating them twice and drawing in the final clash. England also became the first side ever to nil the world champions and inflict two consecutive defeats on them. England Head Coach said: “We are really looking forward to four tough matches in a relatively short period. France are getting stronger all the time, with the incentive of the Rugby World Cup at home in 2014, and this will also be a great opportunity to give some of our younger players a chance to make a statement before the New Zealand tests. New Zealand will certainly be smarting after last year’s results and it’s really important that we improve on our performances from last autumn.”

Continued on page 2…

1 ENGLAND WOMEN TAKE ON WORLD CHAMPIONS THEY ALL WENT Continued from page 1… The England Sevens team will also compete in international sevens tournaments in GAGA Spain, France and Dubai and Street acknowledges, “We will be juggling the XVs and sevens programmes, especially with the IRB Series in Dubai clashing with our final game against New Zealand at Twickenham. We are, however, really confident that the work done over the last couple of years has really given us strength in depth.” Tickets for England’s Autumn International Series www.ticketmaster.co.uk

England Women Autumn International Series: Nov 3, 2012 – England v France – Esher RFC – KO 6pm Nov 23, 2012 – England v New Zealand – Esher RFC – KO 7.30pm Nov 27, 2012 – England v New Zealand – Aldershot Army Rugby Stadium – KO 7.30pm Tickets www.ticketmaster.co.uk Free entry after men’s final whistle – England v New Zealand – Twickenham Stadium – KO 5pm (Live on Sky Sports 1HD)

No match floodlights, no verdant pitch, just 110,000 Lady Gaga fans, many in weird and wonderful outfits, declaring they were On the Edge of Glory over the two nights of Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th September. Lady Gaga’s stunningly theatrical shows at Twickenham Stadium at The Born This Way Ball showcased her talent as singer, musician, dancer and pop culture phenomenon. With characteristically colourful language and revealing outfits, this wasn’t one for the faint hearted, but the set was amazing and the performance from the Lady and her dancers wowed the crowd. They were Twickenham’s 17th and 18th concerts, since the first in 2003 featuring the Rolling Stones. Said Stadium Director Richard Knight, “The set was among the most impressive that we’ve seen. Fans came from far and wide and production company Live Nation, Lady GaGa, and her warm up acts, The Darkness and Lady Starlight, made sure they had a terrific time. The Born This Way Tour added real power to our concert portfolio and we look forward to welcoming more leading artists in the future.”

SSE HELP CLUBS SAVE MONEY ON ENERGY BILLS Nicol McClelland Twickenham – three years to go It’s three years until Rugby World Cup kicks off in England. The 2015 tournament promises to be the biggest and best to date with over 2million tickets on sale and over 400,000 visitors expected from overseas. To sign up for all the latest news and details on tickets and how to volunteer join The Front Row, the official RWC 2015 ezine, at www.rugbyworldcup.com/signup/ PEARSON JOINS SIX NATIONS English referee Dave Pearson has become the first Elite Referee Coach appointed by the Six Nations. He has spent 10 years in the RFU’s Professional Referee Unit, taking charge of over 300 senior games including 29 Tests, and joins the Six Nations this month (October). Jon Davis, Six Nations Tournament & Operations Director, said: “Dave’s Official Energy Partner of English Rugby SSE Club Care will offer carefully engineered primary role will be to raise the and a National Community Partner solutions to meet the clubs needs and help them standard and quantity of elite referees of the RFU, SSE launched SSE Rugby become energy efficient. across the Six Nations. He will work Energy in September which will see clubs Steve Grainger, RFU Rugby Development closely with (European up and down England benefit from a Director, said: “The RFU is committed Rugby Cup Referee Manager) working bespoke energy package based on their to helping clubs save money and run cost towards a common philosophy for efficiently. The partnership with SSE is helping coaching elite match officials across the requirements. SSE Rugby Energy has Six Nations.” been developed alongside the RFU and to achieve this goal, firstly by identifying Dave Pearson said: “Referee coaching Utility Aid with an understanding that what clubs need and then delivering the most is where I always saw myself going clubs don’t necessarily have the time or prevalent – saving on energy costs – through after refereeing at the top level and resources to monitor energy efficiency or SSE Rugby Energy. We are confident that SSE this is the perfect job for me. Although research the best tariffs. Rugby Energy will help clubs make real savings it has perhaps come a little sooner than SSE Rugby Energy could save clubs on that importantly, can be invested back into the I had anticipated, I’m extremely excited average between 8%-10%; Utility Aid will community game which is a central priority for about taking the new role on and negotiate this on behalf of the clubs and secure the Union.” working for the Six Nations.” the best possible energy tariff at the best possible Every club that signs up to SSE Rugby Energy RFU Head of Professional Referee prices. As well as advising individual clubs, via Utility Aid will be entered into a monthly Development Ed Morrison said: “While Utility Aid will be working to move all the prize draw to win training kit, match balls and never anticipating Dave Pearson clubs that are on supply with SSE to the same more. Plus for the first 10 that sign up, SSE moving from active refereeing at this buying cycle over the next three years. This will is also offering a free energy audit which will early stage, the referee coaching role see clubs strengthen their buying power as a provide guidance on how clubs can save money within the Six Nations affords him a collective and reduce costs further. and become more energy efficient. wonderful opportunity move to the SSE will also provide end-to-end energy Based on the success of the reward scheme next stage of his working life. Dave solutions to help maintain club facilities; from SSE Rugby ran for clubs last year, everyone brings with him a wealth of refereeing initial monitoring and reporting services, to who registers with www.SSErugby.com knowledge, having operated at the highest level of the game for some years. He will be improvements in power, heating and lighting will have the chance to win even more rugby missed by all his colleagues here at the RFU but everyone will join me in wishing him every success in this exciting new role.” through using energy efficient equipment. rewards, like England tickets and signed shirts.

2 Touchline – OCTOBER 2012 CHANGES FOR NATIONAL U20 COMPETITION This season sees the National U20 Competitions Department, matches will be at CB level due to the number of high 7th April 2013. The semi-final matches will Competition change to embrace the played in reserve weeks and the changes intensity games they are involved in at be an open draw and played on 21st April, Championship and the Shield. Pool will ensure that Constituent Bodies can club level. with the final matches on the weekend of matches will be played to determine enter an appropriate level of competition, The Championship and Shield will 4th May 2013. quarter and subsequently semi- with meaningful competition and player each have a pool and the knock-out stage, Details of pools and dates are available finalists, instead of the semi-finalists welfare the key focus. Players in CBs the latter comprising four quarter-final on rfu.com through the Fixtures and being decided by regional organisers. with a high proportion of National Clubs matches, two semi-final matches and a final. Results page. Organised by the RFU Tournaments & Association clubs should play fewer games Quarter-final matches will be played on

WETHERBY RFC EXPANSION COMMUNITY BOOST Tony Simpson Wetherby RUFC has been awarded a the rugby spectrum. The target for new male sat down with Ted and Alex to discuss our spot of feed and a mower running over it to grant of £99,950 by the RFU towards members aged 16 and above over the next ambitions, it seems a long time ago now that become a playable rugby/soccer pitch. the cost of creating six new changing four years is an increase of 78 to 180, the they were pointing us in the right direction. It’s “We were running out of space for our rooms and refurbishing the clubhouse creation of an Under 13/18 female section hard to believe that in a little over six months junior rugby and relying on bar profits to at the club’s Grange Park headquarters. of 30 players and an increase of 30 coaches, we will have a new clubhouse. It’s great that finance running costs and development was The total project cost is £660,000, with volunteers and referees. the RFU took the lead and helped drive this no longer viable. We needed to embrace a the RFU component in line with the Said Grange Park Chairman Roger through for everyone at Wetherby RUFC and multi-sport operation that would enable us Union’s 09-13 Whole Sport Plan and Stocker: “We have had enormous help from our partners Kirk Deighton Rangers Rangers to draw down support from other sports to its contribution to Sport England’s Ted Mitchell, the RFU Funding & Facilities JFC and Wetherby cricket club.” go ahead with the new clubhouse. Now we Strategic Outcomes of Grow, Sustain Manager for the North, and, closer to Nor is the clubhouse development the only have the land to expand and the scope to and Excel. home, from Alex Bowden, the RFU Rugby expansion project. Far from it. Chairman offer an even better sporting facility to the While the enhancement of the facilities at Development Officer for Central . Stocker recently signed off a contract that will whole community. Young people need to Grange Park represents a major step forward Their guidance has helped us to acquire increase the overall acreage at Grange Park try lots of sports and if they come to Grange for the Yorkshire Division Four club, the grants in excess of £300,000 from other Sports Club, from 13 to over 30 acres. That Park we can provide that option and cater terms of the financial package are conditional bodies and the new development will make a will provide the clubs with enough land for 12 for a learning process that will give them the upon the bricks-and-mortar element leading fantastic difference to the community. pitches, the beauty of the terrain being that chance to discover what they are good at and to a measured increase in participation across “While it is only three years since we first much of the new land needs no more than a what they enjoy.”

ENGLAND WOMEN IN REMEMBER, REMEMBER INAUGURAL SEVENS SERIES 5TH NOVEMBER

Julia Hutton

The England Women’s Sevens squad will be competing in the newly announced IRB Women’s Sevens World Series to take place in four global destinations: Dubai, Houston, Guangzhou Guy Fawkes Night is a time when many rugby accelerant to light the fire and ensuring a water (China), and Amsterdam. clubs host organised firework and bonfire supply is easily available The series sees each 12-team displays and while these are great fund raising • Only buying fireworks marked BS 7114 – this is event feature six core teams, of events, they also pose significant health and the British Standard that all fireworks should which England is one, and six safety risks. Minimising those risks, to ensure meet. Even then, ensuring they are inspected teams invited based on regional a fun and safe time is had by all, means taking prior to use and handled only by designated tournament rankings. The sensible precautions, including: members or ideally, engaging a specialist other core teams are: Australia, • Carrying out a thorough risk assessment to contractor to manage the display. Canada, Netherlands, New identify hazards to employees, volunteers, Zealand and USA. members and others involved or attending the The most important action of all is to always Said IRB Chairman Bernard event notify your insurance broker or provider that you • Making sure adequate first aid facilities can be are hosting an event and they will help manage Lapasset, “For the past 13 years provided and giving the emergency services your insurance programme for you. the top sevens athletes in the details of the event, including details of Marsh is the official insurance broker to the RFU men’s game have competed in emergency vehicle access and has developed insurance policies specifically a world sevens environment • Putting in place plans for spectator control – to cover your rugby club’s needs. To find out and now all women players including controlling entrances (preferably via more please call Marsh on 01444 335392 or visit can aspire to compete at the a ticketing system), insisting children under 18 www.rfu.com/ManagingRugby/Insurance. same level.” are accompanied by an adult and providing at Marsh Ltd is authorised and regulated by least one steward per 250 guests the Financial Services Authority for insurance • Ensuring the bonfire is a manageable size and mediation activities only. built at least 50m clear of buildings, overhead cables, trees and long grass; never using © Copyright 2012 Marsh Ltd. All rights reserved

OCTOBER 2012 – Touchline 3 LANCASTER IMPRESSED Tony Simpson

England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster recently visited Malton & Norton RFC, officially opening a new £340,000 clubhouse redevelopment and watching his son Dan take part in an inter-club coaching/training session. “I was very impressed with the changes that have been achieved with support from the RFU and the other agencies,” said Lancaster. “When this kind of development is driven by the success of the junior section, it’s all the more satisfying, especially for the club volunteers who are obviously doing a great job for the club and the community.” The new clubhouse work has created four en-suite rooms and space to extend the kitchen area, with a referees’ changing room included in the scheme, all built to the latest RFU/Sport England specifications. The funding package included an RFU grant of £85,000 and a Foundation loan of £100,000. Sport England supported the project by contributing £50,000 from the Inspired Facilities Olympic Legacy fund and local backing came from Ryedale District Council (£25,000) and The Earl Fitzwilliam Charitable Trust (£2,000). An expanding junior section was the catalyst for the redevelopment and the junior element was prominent in the opening celebrations, with a special practice session involving Malton & Norton U12s and West Park U12s as well as a host of other activities involving young boys and girls. “We thought that an inter-club coaching get-together would typify exactly why the club needed the new facility and represent the value we place on that section of the club” said David Asquith, Malton & Norton Mini & Junior Chairman. “We had Under 12s training along with all the other mini age groups, an East Yorkshire Girls Cluster Development session, an Under 16 Yorkshire Cup fixture and both Junior and Senior Colts playing at the club on that day.” LAND ROVER LEND A HAND NEW COACHING AT KIRKBY LONSDALE TEAM AT Tony Simpson spread their coaching net into Cumbria when going to be amazing to be coached by some of the WEDNESBURY Tom Brady and Henry Thomas joined in a three-day Land Premiership players I watch on the TV. I’m sure I’ll learn Rover sponsored coaching programme at Kirkby Lonsdale. some new skills!” The camp attracted 60 youngsters and with support from the Laura Schwab, Marketing Director of Land Rover UK, said: Sharks coaching team and the Cumbria Community Rugby “We are delighted to offer places on Coaches was pronounced a great success. Academies to children involved in Premiership Rugby’s Two Kirkby youngsters especially pleased with the Sale community coaching programmes. The Academies allow input were Jamie Simpson and Frank Konczynski, awarded these children unique access to be coached by top players places at a Premiership Rugby Academy for them and a and we are proud to offer young aspiring rugby players the friend, courtesy of Land Rover. Both won their prize in chance to attend them.” recognition for their involvement as volunteers at Kirkby Land Rover are Official Sponsor to Premiership Rugby Lonsdale RFC and they will now have the opportunity to Academies, there are over 200 courses countrywide be coached by professional Premiership Rugby players throughout the year and in 2011 over 180 professional and coaches. players attended camps to answer questions and pass on Said Jamie: “It’s great to have been chosen and it’s expert advice to the young players of the future.

Wednesbury RUFC have high hopes for the season, having appointed a new coaching team. Head coach Adam Blackford is joined by backs coach Tom Huggins and team manager Matt Hardcastle. Adam’s playing career, cut short by injury, included nine years as a first team player with . He also played for North Midlands at under 16, 17 and 18 and is an RFU level three coach, RFU coach developer and is head coach of Dudley MBC. He has also coached Wolverhampton University, Kings Edwards College and been the Black Country U14/15 Director of Rugby. Tom also joins from Dudley Kingswinford, where he played for a number of years from junior to first team, as well as playing for Hereford & Worcester Colts and North Midlands Colts. He has an HND in sports coaching and management and is an RFU level two coach. He has been an RFU Community Rugby Coach for the past three years and coached the Black Country U14/15. Matt is a Wednesbury player of long standing and is stepping up to team management. Said Adam, “With Tom and Matt I’ll be looking to develop our existing players, attract new ones and hopefully help Wednesbury’s league status. It is a great club, very much at the heart of the local community, and we would welcome newcomers of every level for what promises to be a very exciting season.” For further information contact Adam on [email protected] or 07718 706578

4 Touchline – OCTOBER 2012 KENT COACH GETS ALL BLACK CAP 23 YEARS ON Hugh Godwin Kent County RFU’s latest step in their playing and At his old club Oriental-Rongotai in Wellington, coaching development programme was an exciting former New Zealand full back Gallagher – now summer tour to New Zealand during which a headmaster at Colfe’s Preparatory School in south- young squad and three county coaches were east London – was presented with an All Black cap tutored by Rugby World Cup winning coach Sir that has been waiting since his last Test Graham Henry. appearance 23 years ago. The squad, with an average age of 21, won all David Corry, chairman of Club Kent and outgoing their four matches but the main aim of the trip county president, said: “We were enthusiastically was to sample and learn from the cultural and received everywhere we went, establishing firm rugby ethos of New Zealand. Players were billeted links with the clubs we played as well as places with local families for some of the tour and on where we trained such as Christchurch Boys’ High other occasions were together in a Maori hostel in School and Waitiki High School, Oamaru. The tour Auckland and at a school in Oamaru, North Otago. featured on national TV and in the New Zealand County coaches Chris Wilkins (Kent Player national and local press.” Development Manager), John Gallagher and Taff All the players received constructive feedback Gwilliam planned meticulously for a tour that from the coaching team, development points included Henry’s coaching session in Auckland, a were emphasised and all their club coaches were visit to the city’s Eden Park stadium, attending two kept informed. Corry said: “The coaching team of matches in Auckland and Christchurch Chris Wilkins, John Gallagher and Taff Gwilliam and a presentation and discussion by Jamie were outstanding and the players responded Hamilton and Robbie Fruean of the . magnificently both on the field and off where they In Wellington the coaches also attended a full were widely praised by all our hosts. They have training session with coach Mark been a credit to the County.” Hammett and All Black scrum coach Mike Cron as Kent Development Squad results, summer 2012 well as an Under 16 Development session coached tour: Won v Auckland Marist 38-10, Oriental by former internationals Dave Loveridge and Rangotai 39-10, Geraldine 29-10 and North Steve Bachop. Otago 30-29. CLEAN MACHINE MAKES MOSBOROUGH SHINE Mosborough RFC from have no excuse for not Rapid expansion in recent seasons, particularly the junior being the smartest team in Yorkshire Division Four this season section, had stretched the club’s storage capacity to the limit and after taking delivery of new laundry equipment and a new the arrival of the new laundry equipment meant that the new storage facility to house the washer and dryer they won in a unit was a crucial addition to the club’s capability to handle the competition involving the RFU and AEG. weekly needs of four senior and six junior teams. And if you fancy Thanks to the Coal Board Regeneration Trust and the RFU, turning out in the freshest and smartest strip at either junior or Mosborough were able to take delivery of their new storage and senior level, Les Newman on 07974 377687 or Mick Addey on laundry unit, which is has become an important addition to their 07875 109198 are the people to get in touch with. headquarters at Mosborough Miners Welfare.

LANCASHIRE ALNWICK BUOYED BY RUGBY TUNES IN TO HOSPICE COMMUNITY SUPPORT

PROJECT Tony Simpson Tony Simpson Alnwick RFC’s recent Rugby union in events at Greensfield has underlined the strength been supporting of the bond which exists the Derian between the rugby House Children’s fraternity and the town. Hospice in It took a combination Chorley for a few of ambitious plans to years and one of expand their operation to the stalwarts of accommodate a burgeoning that connection, girls and women’s section Fylde Director with a natural catastrophe of Rugby Mark inflicted by unprecedented Nelson, is heavy rain to provide the currently helping mechanism that allowed to drive a fund- the community and club raising project to be staged at the Municipal to unite in an Theatre in Colne. extraordinary fashion. The event, entitled Songs from the Neighbourhood The deluge which submerged 2 following a successful pilot last year, will be held on parts of the club added real That successful effort laid the foundation for another major Sunday, November 4, 2012 and is a nine-hour production weight to the need for a major fund raising effort and it was event later in the day when the 77 lots in a charity auction involving musicians with close links with East Lancashire. all hands to the pumps in a quite literal sense at one stage as made a massive £26,000, which allied to a very healthy Pendleside Hospice in Reedley will share the proceeds the restoration and expansion project got under way. sale of bricks for the extensions took the tally for the day with Derian House, with all the entertainers performing Given the need for a spot of good, old-fashioned ‘showbiz’, to beyond £40,000 and the overall total to £65,000. The voluntarily to support the two charities. an attempt on one of the many rugby achievements contained ultimate target to complete the re-furbishments is £85,000 Sponsorship opportunities are still available for associate in the Guinness Book of Records became the event to give and with the local farming community being encouraged to (£100) and main sponsorship (£750), with tickets Alnwick celebrity status. The challenge was to secure the most donate a bucket scoop of grain and a lamb, indications point priced at £10 going on sale in late September from the goal kicks achieved by a 15-man team in 12 hours, an entry to the target soon being reached. Municipal Theatre box office. Further information from previously held by a Braintree RFC Under 15 team, who Penny Stewart, Chairman of the project committee, said: “It was an incredible day and the lads did a fantastic job in the Mark Nelson at [email protected] or set the benchmark 10 years ago with a very creditable 1,782 successes. Alnwick, however, managed a mighty 3,501 tally world-record attempt. We had around 300 people at on 07736 427111, facebook at f/sftnlive and website on in less than 12 hours and they are now awaiting verification the club in the evening and we’ve been overwhelmed by www.sftnlive.co.uk from the Guinness people. people’s generosity.”

OCTOBER 2012 – Touchline 5 COOK SPICES HEARTS OF ENGLAND HELP UP MALVERN LUKE’S CLUB COACHING MENU

Paul Bolton Old Halesonians were recently presented with a Chapman Memorial Fund has raised around £10,000. The defibrillator by the grandfather of Luke Chapman, money will be divided between local charitable causes and a talented 15 year old from the club, who died Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY). playing for his school, Haybridge HS, in March. The CRY was founded in 1995 to raise awareness of the defibrillator was donated by The Hearts of England conditions that can cause young sudden cardiac death and Association and presented by Alan Chapman, a works with expert cardiologists to help prevent the incidence member of the organisation. Club coaches and first of young cardiac death, primarily through its pioneering aiders will be trained to use the equipment, kept at screening programme. CRY works with leading bodies such Old Halesonians’ Wassell Grove headquarters. as the RFU, FA and LTA to ensure that screening is widely “After the tragic loss of Luke we all became aware of the accessible to high endurance sportspeople and, over the past Gloucester full back Rob Cook has agreed to lead training need for more research into young sudden cardiac death,” five years, has screened more than 1,000 elite athletes. sessions for Malvern RFC this season. Liam Hughes who said John Wragg, chairman of Old Halesonians’ Mini & In the surrounding area, The Hearts of England Association became Director of Rugby at Spring Lane this season said “We’ve known Rob since his days at Worcester University, Juniors section. have also donated defibrillators to Halesowen Cycle and from where he went on to play at Nuneaton, then made his The club’s Mini & Juniors have also donated £500 to Athletics Club and Moseley RFC. The Association is a mark at for three years, scoring over 1000 the Luke Chapman Fund from recent fund-raising events. West Midlands Charity run by a small team of volunteers points in the RFU Championship. Rob went to Kingsholm this Further fund-raising is planned with Haybridge HS and their supporters raising money to support specific season and has already featured in the Aviva Premiership. He staging an inaugural Luke Chapman Memorial Under projects identified by the cardiology departments of our local will bring considerable experience and an added dimension to 16s tournament involving seven other local schools. hospitals. Over the past 12 years they have donated £220,000 coaching the squad.” Old Halesonians are also hosting an annual Under 16s for the benefit of cardiac patients, nursing and medical staff. tournament next March. So far fund-raising for the Luke FACE OFF AT TWICKENHAM

MP TURNS COACH Old Streetonians recently teamed up with BuyMyFace.com, an innovative advertising Toby Perkins, the Labour MP for Chesterfield, swapped his them all the best for the new season.” movement, in an effort to recruit new players. business suit for a tracksuit when he helped to coach Chesterfield The training session followed a visit by Perkins to Chesterfield’s Started by two young graduates with student Panthers RFC’s Under 15 side recently. Perkins, a former new ground development at Dunston. The £1.9 million project will debt, BuyMyFace.com uses their faces as Chesterfield player, lists sport and youth involvement among his see the creation of Chesterfield’s first multi-use floodlit training online billboards. political interests and was back at his old club to help assist the facility comprising three rugby pitches, a gym, games area and Old Street sent them, faces painted, to the Premiership youth coaches with the training session. multi-sport training pitch. double-headers at Twickenham. Budding entrepreneur “It’s great to see so many young people getting involved in the “There is no doubt that the facilities being developed in Dunston Ross Harper, co-founder of BuyMyFace.com said, sport they love. Clubs like the Panthers are an important part of the will be a coup for sport in Chesterfield,” Perkins said. “I hope they “BuyMyFace.com has taken us to some weird Chesterfield community and have so much to offer young people,” help to encourage a new generation of people to become involved and wonderful places but watching the matches at Perkins said. “I have a lot of admiration for the coaches who give up in sport and help the sports clubs in Chesterfield to thrive in the Twickenham has to be one of the highlights.” their free time to inspire the young people in our town and I wish spotlight of the Olympic legacy.”

6 Touchline – OCTOBER 2012 SALOPIAN COACHES BACK IN COLLEGE

Paul Bolton

More than 70 coaches attended the inaugural S12 Shropshire Coaching Conference held at Harper Adams University College near Newport, where Paul Westgate, England Students head coach, was key note speaker and all but two of Shropshire’s 12 clubs – hence the title’s S12 – were represented. Young players in four age groups from the Newport, Shrewsbury and Telford Hornets clubs were at the conference and said Shropshire RDO Simon Hincks, “We believe this is an important building block for bigger and better things in Shropshire rugby. Next year we hope that coaches from neighbouring Constituent Bodies will attend because everyone felt that it was a useful and enjoyable event. The players from the age group teams who attended worked very hard and also enjoyed the day.” Other sessions at the conference were delivered by Martyn Longhurst, a North Midlands youth coach, local Community Rugby Coaches Adam Blackford and Scott Sturdy, Simon Hincks and Darren Gourley, the RFU Regional Talent ID & Development Officer. The conference was organised and delivered by the Shropshire Rugby Development Group and sponsored by Wace Morgan Solicitors and sports clothing and equipment suppliers Sportsjam. Thanks to the generosity of the sponsors all 72 delegates were given a memory stick of the conference presentations and a T-shirt.

FLANKER LIGHTS BRISTOL FIRES Nicol McClelland

When Bristol Rugby’s James “I’ve invested some of my savings into the Merriman isn’t making his mark in business in the hope that when I finish my the RFU Championship, the rugby career, I’ll have something to go is helping his father Andrew to run back to.” their successful firewood business – On top of qualifying for chainsaw Hopshill Firewood – in Saundersfoot. certificates in tree-felling, and being a full- Born and bred in , 28-year-old time player for Bristol Rugby, Merriman Merriman has captained Wales U21 and and his father also provide tree care during featured in the sevens team that won the the summer months. 2009 . So how “Demand is highest from September to does the flanker manage his family business March,” he said. “That’s when people and rugby commitments? require logs. The rising price of oil and SHARK IN CLASS “My dad looks after the day-to-day electricity means that a lot more are business when I’m in Bristol. He’s good installing log burners – which is great for This term, Sharks Community Trust has started the Aviva Premiership Rugby at talking to people and selling, whereas us! We’ve gone from a cow shed to having Schools Programme in the Salford area. The Aviva sponsored programme I’m the hands-on man. I’ll go back on a purpose built sheds and machinery to cope develops grassroots rugby in schools and teaches tag rugby to Year 3 students. Wednesday afternoon after training and with demand. We’re definitely moving in And Sharky is now top of the class! help with processing the logs. It’s important the right direction.” to make sure there is always enough wood To find out more about James’ company in stock.” Hopshill Firewood visit the website at As with most professional sportsmen, www.hopshillfirewood.co.uk or follow Merriman recognises the importance of them on Twitter at @HopshillLogs. having a skill outside his sport, saying:

TAKING THE CAKE We would like to apologise for retitling the Beccles team the Eccles team in last month’s Touchline. The editor was on a sugar low!

OCTOBER 2012 – Touchline 7 Mansfield continue to set high standards in volunteer service having passed their Investors in People review with flying colours. Mansfield, who were the first amateur sports club in the country to MANSFIELD A become an Investors in People organisation back in 2000, have continued to set such high standards that they are now being used as a case study for IiP marketing. Mansfield are now working with working with an Investors in People Specialist from emb-x, the organisation that delivers SHINING EXAMPLE the Investors in People service for Central England. “Being an Investors in People organisation has reinforced our commitment to strong leadership, communication and good business practice” said Mansfield chairman Andy Foster. “If someone feels that what they are doing is worthwhile, they are much more willing to contribute and to contribute with a happy demeanour. Our volunteers are very passionate about what they do and it is our job to fuel that passion.” Mansfield have 56 volunteers filling 93 positions in the club’s organisation. “So you can see that some of us have more than one job,” says Andy. Mansfield’s recent successes include successfully staging the annual club barbecue which was attended by more than 2,000 people despite miserable weather. “The annual event is a massive night for the club and it’s all hands to the pump. Over 100 volunteers helped us on the night and in clearing up afterwards,” Foster said. “The amount raised from the barbecue will take a while to be finalised and although the wet weather means it will be less than last year, it all helps. We really do have a great team here – players and non-players.” Investors in People, which was launched in 1991, is the UK’s leading people management standard. It specialises in transforming business performance through people. “We felt Investors in People as an industry standard of excellence would be the perfect vehicle for us to show our sponsors, supporters and members that we are serious about rugby in Mansfield. This highlights our belief that the club deserves to be managed in a manner that should always seek to provide the best possible facilities, training and coaching that we can,” Foster said. “It has given us the credibility that we felt we needed – especially when applying for funding. “One of the first things that Sport England, the RFU or any funding body looks at is how, as a club, you provide a safe and enjoyable environment in which to train and play rugby at all levels. Investors in People reinforces our commitment to delivering that.” NEW TROPHY FOR NORTH CHAMPIONSHIP TEAMS

Nicol McClelland The Yorkshire contingency of the RFU Championship – , Leeds and Rotherham – recently unveiled the Yorkshire Regiment Trophy, now contested between them as part of the RFU Championship season. Supported by the Yorkshire Regiment, who kindly donated the trophy, it will be won by the team recording the most wins over their Yorkshire counterparts. Speaking at Cliffords Tower in York, hosted of the Yorkshire Regiment Trophy launch, captain Matt Challinor said: “I’m from Rotherham and have played for Leeds, Rotherham and now Doncaster, so the Yorkshire Regiment Trophy is of particular importance to me. It’s great to see the county celebrating having three teams in the RFU Championship which should encourage people to come along to the games.” The Yorkshire Regiment Trophy kicked off at Stuart Lancaster’s former club, with Leeds Carnegie facing Doncaster Knights at Headingly. Said Stuart, “The Yorkshire Regiment Trophy is another fantastic way of recognising the strength of rugby in the North, and in the RFU Championship. The quality of rugby on show in the second tier is advancing year on year – no more so than we’ve seen this season – and the introduction of the Yorkshire Regiment Trophy should definitely add some extra competitive rivalry between the Yorkshire contingency. I’m very proud of my Yorkshire connections so I’ll definitely be keeping an eye on the competition.” GREEN LIGHT FOR EXPANSION Tony Simpson

When RFU Chief Executive Ian Ritchie made his first fact-finding trip to the North West, Didsbury Toc H RFC was one of the clubs he visited and excited talk at the time was of ambitious plans to expand the operation. That project has now received the green light from all the agencies involved, after initial work by the rugby club in conjunction with Ted Mitchell, the RFU Funding & Facilities Manager for the North and Phil Clarke, RDO for the City of Manchester. In addition to Toc H RFC, the new development will also benefit football and cricket, with the Football Foundation and the England & Wales Cricket Board in partnership with Sport England, the Environment Agency and Manchester City Council all making major contributions to the project, which will create the new Didsbury Playing Fields Association sports hub. The new sports pavilion will comprise ten new FA & RFU standard changing rooms, plus two further refurbished changing rooms, along with a new changing room for referees, introducing disabled access, a refurbished club room, lounge and bar and catering facilities. “The has been a partner in a number of multi-sport projects and this collaboration is especially pleasing in that it had its origins in an approach by Didsbury Toc H RFC,” said Ted Mitchell, the RFU Funding & Facilities Manager for the North. “While the RFU has contributed significantly to the overall funding of the project, perhaps more important was the support we were able to provide in helping to create a successful partnership which will now benefit a range of sports and the Didsbury community as a whole. Construction work is scheduled to begin this Autumn and should be completed by Spring 2013.”

8 Touchline – OCTOBER 2012 BCA GIRLS TEAM AT HIGH WYCOMBE COMBINING JOINT EFFORT RUGBY & EDUCATION

BCA, based in Maidenhead, recently joined forces with Aviva Premiership club to give youth rugby players the opportunity to combine education and rugby. The college timetable allows students to maximise their time both in and out of the classroom and the course aims to develop players both physically and academically, while encouraging players to continue representing their regular club teams. Successful applicants need to be accepted onto a Level 2 or 3 Sport or Public Services course and the programme can offer: daily rugby sessions with a highly qualified coaching team; competitive fixtures in a variety of competitions; support from and player links with a professional premiership rugby club; an individual After summer taster sessions, a group of girls arrived at High to play some initial friendly matches soon and subsequently to enter programme and nutritional advice; regular strength and Wycombe rugby club, where they are keen to create a girls’ team a league and have squads across other age groups. They would also conditioning sessions; a dedicated tutor for the duration to allow those introduced to rugby at school to play at the club and like to start a competition for girls at local schools, with the club and a London Irish kit package. eventually to start a senior women’s team. hosting the finals. Students can live on site or for those choosing to travel The initiative began thanks to parent power, with Adrian and They already have one girl who plays for the county and those new from home every day, BCA runs an extensive transport Elaine Black, whose daughter is a student at the Sir William Ramsay to the sport are really enjoying their rugby. Says Kelly Swift, “There network stretching over five counties, making it easy come School, Hazlemere, High Wycombe, having to drive to Reading so was a clear need for girls to be offered a nearby club team once they that their daughter Megan Wallace could play club rugby. They had experienced rugby at school. The emerging squad are very keen to college every day. approached the school’s PE teacher Kelly Swift to see if a squad and great to coach and we are hoping to attract more girls to play If you would like to apply, book a presentation for your could be established at High Wycombe. regular matches.” school or club, or be provided with more information, then Soon Kelly and two PE department colleagues, Emma Le Count Training takes place every week at 7pm every Wednesday at High please contact Dean Rogers on 01682 827598 or email and Steven Bryant, were coaching the girls each week, with Adrian, Wycombe club. For more information contact: Adrian Black on [email protected]. supported by Elaine, becoming the U15 girls’ manager. 07703 721576. The numbers at training are increasing weekly and there are hopes HARD WORK PAYS OFF ON THE WIRRAL After years of planning and fundraising, rebuilding work was recently completed on changing facilities at the Old Parkonians Association – home to Oxton Parkonians RUFC and the Old Parkonians Cricket Club. Based in Birkenhead on the Wirral, the Association was founded in 1928 by the late H. Martin Curphey, after whom the ground is named. Oxton Parkonians play their senior rugby in South Lancashire/ Division 3 and have a thriving junior section. The Association took specialist advice on fundraising, which resulted in £50,000 as an interest free loan from the RFU and a £50,000 grant from Biffa, based on landfill taxes that are used to assist community based projects. Work by local firm, Wirral Builders, began last March and was completed on time in July. The original 1960s changing rooms were replaced with 21st Century facilities meeting RFU and Sport England standards. Details of the work, plans and photographs showing the development from start to finish can be seen on the Association’s web site at www.oldparkonians.org.uk/development. Last month (September) saw the facilities opened with guests including the oldest Parkonian, Cliff Crozier, aged 97. Oxton Parkonians were also celebrating their recent award of RFU Club Accreditation. The Association aims to give players of all abilities the chance to learn rugby and cricket and to progress to the best of their individual ability. Some 150 local youngsters turn out every Sunday, many eventually making the transition to senior rugby. Said Richie Beckett, Chairman of Rugby “A great deal of hard work by our volunteers has all been worth it now that we have both the facilities and accreditation status that the club merits. Our club is a central part of the community and we are very lucky to have local sponsors who ensure that as many as possible can enjoy sport in their own neighbourhood.” Visit oldparkonians.org.uk for more information. INSURANCE BROKERS & CLUB PUT FAMILIES FIRST

Castleford RUFC have been helped by the generosity of an old Pontefract family company. Donald Schofield (Pontefract) Insurance Brokers, have helped the club to buy new kit for their ever-growing and successful Under 17 boys’ rugby squad. This comes at a time when the club are investing in their youth players by helping them in their rugby coaching careers. The new sponsors have been treated to great performances thus far and said partners in their family firm, David and Paul Schofield, “These are very exciting times for the club. There is a real buzz about the place and everyone is committed to moving things forward. We wanted to do our bit to help out when we found that they’d grown out of the last shirts. The club puts family at the top of their priority list and that fits nicely with our business ethos. It’s a great match in every sense.” Mike Connell, Castleford RUFC’s Hon Treasurer added, “Like David and Paul, we want to make a positive contribution to the future of the local area and investment like this helps us build a firm base from which we can get local players coming through the junior ranks.”

OCTOBER 2012 – Touchline 9 LANCASTER AT CLIFTON COLLEGE FOR HISTORIC INTER-SCHOOL FIXTURE The latest chapter in what is claimed to be the oldest inter-school fixture in English rugby was written as teams from Clifton College and Marlborough College locked horns for the right to lift the Governor’s Cup. England Rugby head coach, Stuart Lancaster, was guest of honour at the event on the Close at Clifton College, where a series of rugby and hockey matches celebrated Clifton’s 150th anniversary. Despite winning the last four matches between the sides, Clifton lost 5-13 to Marlborough College in the Governor’s Cup, which is played between the 1st XVs of the Upper Schools. In other matches, the Old Cliftonians were presented with the OC v OM Cup by Stuart after beating the Marlborough Malones, and Cheltenham Junior School won the Colleges’ Cup, said to be the oldest inter-school English junior rugby fixture, after beating Clifton Prep School 32-14. The Governor’s Cup was first played in 1864 – the year Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge was opened – with the match ending in a brawl, but this year’s match was a far more friendly affair. In front of 3,000 spectators Marlborough scored two tries through Jack Bradby and Hugo Harris, but Clifton rallied late on and pressed hard for a score, Ben Gomples finally breaching the Marlborough following a lineout. A number of distinguished guests including Rugby Football Union Vice President, Bob Reeves, and ITV Sports Editor and Clifton College old boy, Steve Scott attended the day, with the Governor’s Cup match officiated by Rugby World Cup referee, Tony Spreadbury.

RFU’S BEST HELP DEVELOP NAVY’S REFEREES TRIATHLON EFFORT At their recent start of the season FOR INJURED development day, the Royal Navy Referees welcomed and Paul Bridgeman to the busy Naval Air PLAYERS Station at Yeovilton. Luke, with his Paul Bolton international and Aviva Premiership Two RFU Community Rugby experience, is used to blocking out Coaches recently took part in background noise of vociferous their first triathlon recently crowds so the constant drone of to raise money for the RFU helicopter operations proved little Injured Players Foundation. Ant distraction as he worked with the Collins and Dan Osleton, from referees on greater understanding Warwickshire, competed in the of the tackle and ruck. Using both event in Stratford upon Avon theoretical and practical exercises having inspired by attending the proved a great success, prompting Olympic triathlon in Hyde Park lively debate throughout the in August. day’s programme. Collins, who plays for Old The second session looked at consistency Coventrians, and Osleton, who of interpretation when seeing foul play. plays for Bournville, despite With the RFU’s current trial on extending limited preparation time did well the powers of the Television Match for triathlon novices with Collins Official, the Navy referees were afforded clocking with 1.23.12 and Osleton the opportunity of being in the TMO hot not far behind Dan with a time of 1.27.14. seat. They discovered that, even with video Referee of the Year, Ian Seaton technology, reaching accurate decisions “We hadn’t thought of doing quickly is not easy. it for charity until we were at The final session brought questions and answers where Paul Bridgeman’s wide Twickenham for an orientation day and during one of the experience helped the referees understand both the art and the science of officiating and conferences we visited the RFU hopefully ensure that decisions will remain appropriate to the game being managed. Injured Players Foundation stall Navy Referees’ Chairman, Cdr Andy Cole, presented the Society’s two annual awards, set up to raise awareness of the the first to Referee Newcomer of the Year, Steve Overvoode, the second to Ian Seaton great work that they do,” Collins who received the Admiral Royds Trophy as the Navy’s Referee of the Year. Ian’s said. “People have been so excellent performances on the field included refereeing the Navy Cup Final between generous with their donations we have raised support for both players and their families in HMS Seahawk and HMS Sultan. The trophy is named after former RFU President a lot of money in such a short time and are still the early months of these injuries as well as in Admiral Sir Percy Royds, who also authored the book “History of the Laws of the Game’ hoping to get more in over the next month.” the long term. In addition, the charity takes a Said one experienced referee, “This was the most educational Training Day that I have The RFU Injured Players Foundation supports conducts and supports research and education attended. Luke and Paul were both excellent and honest. The many debates certainly people who sustain a catastrophic injury whilst aimed at preventing injuries and identifying how gave us plenty of food for thought and the sessions provided some very lively exchanges!” playing rugby. The charity provides help and injured players can be helped more effectively. SAINTS HELP SECURE ALL ROUND EDUCATION

Northampton Saints have established an exciting partnership As part of the project, Level 3 coach and current with Samuel Whitbread Academy in to launch the player Ben Gulliver has been recruited by the school Rugby Development School for post-16 as head coach, and with specialist skills sessions in strength students. Talented young rugby players will now be enabled to and conditioning, nutrition and sports psychology run by combine dedicated study with a chance to further enhance their Northampton staff, the scheme seeks to deliver training from ability in the sport. the top. The concept was created by former player Rich The project not only focuses on talented sixth form rugby Candlin who approached Ross Stewart, Elite Player Development players but aims to build the sport in the community. Rugby Manager at Saints. Candlin, now head of P.E. at Samuel Whitbread is planned throughout the Bedfordshire East Schools Trust Academy, says, “We offer students a chance to complete three with Saints coaches overseeing tag rugby sessions and A-levels from a wide range of subjects at the biggest sixth form tournaments in all Lower Schools and Ben Gulliver offering in the area, alongside five hours of timetabled rugby a week. This specialist coaching across middle schools. In addition, the school is a great opportunity for students to continue their academic will link with Biggleswade RUFC as a pathway to senior rugby and development whilst at the same time embarking on a designated coach education. programme of rugby delivered by top-level coaches.”

10 Touchline – OCTOBER 2012 BIG MONTH FOR RFU’S CHALLENGERS IN NATIONAL CITIZEN SERVICE Hugh Godwin In a mammoth month for volunteering in the Richmond and Twickenham area, the Rugby Football Union is assisting almost 200 local youngsters to complete their National Citizen Service this September. The RFU is one of the first franchisees of The Challenge Network, the largest provider of the National Citizen Service (NCS), a government initiative for 16-year-olds in the summer after their GCSEs. The Challengers have been busy with dozens of volunteering and fundraising activities to help them develop personally and to participate more fully in their local community. Naturally rugby is at the heart of the RFU’s franchise, and some of the 180 youngsters have been working with four local rugby clubs: Grasshoppers, Twickenham, London Welsh and Teddington. They have also volunteered for many rugby and non-rugby charities and the summer’s intense activity is culminating in the delivery of 15 projects locally each weekend throughout September, including:

• Challengers leafleted and ran a bucket collection for the RFU Injured Players Foundation at the London Scottish v rugby match, raising £360; • For the Tag Rugby Trust, Challengers assisted the ‘Rebels and Titans’ project – which works with long-term unemployed from the inner city – to deliver a tag tournament for under-8s at Richmond FC; • Challengers went on a seven-mile river walk to Teddington to with the National Citizen Service, and said: “This initiative has presence in the area, and our involvement in this scheme lets support and raise awareness of the Just a Drop charity; been enthusiastically supported by the rugby community from local charities and services feel connected with the organisation • Decorating the new premises of Stepping on Out, a charity professional clubs to local youth sections. and the sport, giving us the opportunity to contribute directly to that works with disabled adults to create and sell greetings “While the clubs and rugby charities have gained from the the wellbeing of local people.” cards to fund more independent living. fundraising and volunteering, they have also given the young Volunteering took pride of place on the first weekend volunteers a taste of the game’s enthusiasm and commitment from (September 8/9), followed by fund-raising (15/16), campaigning These and many other projects have seen the Challengers a passionate volunteering base, and illustrated not only how much on a local issue (22/23) and the Big Action Weekend (September meet and be inspired by professionals and volunteers inside and an individual gets from volunteering, but also how much society 29/30): three 60-young person regeneration projects. outside the game of rugby. gets from that individual’s commitment too. For more information contact Pete Ward, RFU,PeteWard@rfu. Pete Ward, RFU Inclusion Officer, has led the cooperation “More broadly, Twickenham Stadium and the RFU is a huge com or 07850 166465 COLUMBIAN YOUNGSTERS VISIT TWICKENHAM A delegation of eight youngsters from the city of Buenaventura in Columbia visited the Rugby Football Union to learn first-hand the sport and the rules of the game. During their visit to Twickenham Stadium, the students enjoyed a rugby lesson with one of the RFU coaches. Their trip to London is part of the Integral Prevention Plan: Boys, Girls and Adolescents with Opportunities, an initiative on sports diplomacy of the Columbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This programme aims at promoting sports to foster personal development in children and teenagers that come from vulnerable regions and are at risk of becoming delinquent. Rugby is a small but growing sport in Columbia. Currently, 6000 people practice it in six departments of the country but mainly in the department of Antioquia. Two years ago, the first synthetic rugby field was built in the city of Medellin in a marginalised area of the city. Rugby has been increasing its scope in Columbia as a medium for social inclusion and all efforts are currently in place to raise more awareness and interest in this sport and also to have a qualifying team for Rio 2016. ON A WING AND A PRAYER Widden Old Boys hosted a packed out fund raising night recently to provide a new patio area at The Don clubhouse. Based on the Travel Channel show Man vs Food, the otherwise healthy eating players IKRAM COLLECTS and members were challenged to POWER 100 AWARD take on either a 4.5lb burger, fries and a pint or the Nine Storm Wings Dual code rugby international, Ikram Butt was recognised in the Challenge, with some of the hottest Power 100, promoting the most influential Pakistani men and women within Britain. Ikram was honoured in the Trailblazers sauce around. category and was nominated amongst leaders from a wide Confidence was high for the seven range of areas including media, business, arts, sport, public burger challengers. However, most quit sector and charity. before the half way stage of the hour-long He said, “It is a wonderful honour to have received this award test and none actually finished. Warren and would not have been possible without the tremendous Godsell was declared the winner, having support of many people.” consumed half his bread and chips on top Mark Pawsey MP for Rugby and Chairman of Commons & Lords of three patties. Rugby Union FC, added “I was delighted to be at the Pakistan In the Nine Storm Wing Challenge, Power 100 event to see Ikram receive his award.” the battered hot wings were dipped in a Khalid Darr, Chairman of Pakistan Power 100, added “Ikram’s ridiculously hot sauce. Nicky Godsell’s contribution to bringing about a positive change for the future of streaming tears were dried by his loving Pakistan, its people and its perception has been outstanding and mum before he gave up at seven wings. he is deservedly one of the Pakistan Power 100 Trail Blazers.” Topper Wilkes astounded all by finishing Ikram became the first British Asian to represent England at the wings in 10 minutes, Steve Burnham either code of rugby during the 1995 European Championships. finished in 15 minutes. There were He has spearheaded a number of initiatives including the winners’ T-shirts and less complimentary formation of the British Asian Rugby Association (BARA) which failure shirts and a count up of funds, develops sporting, educational & cultural links between the UK while the contestants rolled home. and the South Asia region.

OCTOBER 2012 – Touchline 11 THE CAP STILL FITS AFTER 50 YEARS

A fantastic 50th anniversary reunion took place recently at From Australia, Canada, America, Kuwait, Prague, France and They may have been more grizzled, with knees creaking Hilsea Playing Fields when the entire squad from the 1962/3 every part of the UK they travelled and were even joined by two somewhat, but the squad’s abiding passion is rugby union, some Portsmouth Grammar School First XV arrived from across the of their former coaches from that year, John Hopkinson and are referees, all are avid fans. The event was filmed on ITV News globe to reenact their team picture. Peter Barclay. and covered by the local newspaper.

Making a very special presentation recently PARALYMPIANS OSTERLEY GIVES at Twickenham’s Museum were members of Osterley RFC, among them eight Past ALL BLACK SHIRT Presidents and six club captains. Richard Evans HELPED BY IPF and Geoffrey Upsdell, Osterley Past Presidents, TO MUSEUM presented a shirt of one of the best ever All Black full backs, Bob Scott, to Museum Curator, Mike Rowe and Chairman of the Museum’s Committee, John Douglas. The event was organised by Les Evans from the Museum. Quite a story lay behind the Middlesex club possessing the shirt. The Kiwis, a touring side of New Zealand servicemen stationed in Europe at the end of World War II, were held up by a dock strike when heading home. They were offered a game by Osterley and accepted and although some Kiwis changed sides at half time they still won 47-3. Then Scott and Fred Allen stayed on to Three RFU Injured Players Foundation supported paralympians coach some of Osterley’s younger players before were involved in the historic 2012 London Paralympics. eventually returning to New Zealand but not IPF client Claire Harvey captained her women’s sitting volleyball team to before they had given Osterley Bob’s shirt as a the semi finals but lost in the bronze medal match. However, as the team thank you. Sir Fred, as he later became, captained only formed some two years ago, she could be rightly proud. Claire was the All Blacks and coached them to 14 wins out of encouraged to get back into team sports by the IPF’s injured player welfare 14 from 1966 to 68. officer, Dave Phillips, and has gone from thinking that her sporting days were over when injured in 2008 to leading her team at London 2012. The wheelchair rugby was massively popular and IPF clients Andy Barrow and Ross Morrison played before packed houses every match. They were in TOM a strong group in the preliminaries and didn’t qualify for the semi-finals as hoped. However, the team achieved fifth place overall beating Belgium and Sweden in the place play-offs. GETS The event got huge coverage because of its full-contact nature. England captain Chris Robshaw was there to enjoy the spectacle and also tweeted about the support the IPF gives to injured players and other spectators GOLD included many IPF clients and celebrities. It was the “hot ticket” after the stadium and aquatics centre. All three Richard Hale School in Hertfordshire’s Head athletes used Twitter and other social media to thank the IPF for their of PE, Tim Saunders, handed over a hooded support in preparing for the Games. Claire has said that she is hoping to sweatshirt and volunteer’s gold award to carry on to Rio in 2016, and tweeted the IPF after the closing ceremony: pupil Tom Bryan recently. He had done “Hey. Wanted to say a big thank you. Without support of you guys I wouldn’t have just sterling service officiating at school, club had the best experience of my life!” and festival matches before heading off to Andy and Ross both have weddings imminent and so have not planned Bournemouth University. their future beyond their big days.

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

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

12 Touchline – OCTOBER 2012