RFU help launch new programme

The RFU today unveiled plans in Exeter to develop more young volunteers in rugby clubs across the country through its ‘Young Rugby Ambassadors’ programme.

Rugby clubs are being asked to nominate sixteen to twenty year olds to become Young Rugby Ambassadors, whose role will be to excite and inspire other young people in the build-up to the Rugby World Cup 2015 (RWC 2015) and beyond.

These young ambassadors will be working in their clubs to pass on the latest news on RWC 2015, raise awareness of rugby in their local area and will also help to get 16-24 year olds from their community playing rugby again.

RFU Rugby Development Director Steve Grainger emphasised the benefits of the programme: “We are committed to support the development of young people as volunteers and future leaders in our clubs at all levels. This programme provides an opportunity for them to take their first leadership roles in clubs, using the inspiration of Rugby World Cup 2015 to engage current club members and recruit new ones.

“These young people represent the best of their generation and they will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the development and long term success of our sport in clubs across the country.”

Today marks two years to go to the final of Rugby World Cup 2015 and the Young Rugby Ambassador programme kicked-off today in Exeter, one of the Host Cities for the RWC 2015.

The event held at the Corn Exchange in Exeter involved young volunteers and mentors from rugby across Exeter and Devon. They took part in workshops discussing ideas for community projects to inspire people about rugby, explored different leadership and ambassadorial styles and shared information about RWC2015.

Rugby contributes to the development of young people in a wide variety of ways in building confidence and team working skills, commitment, supporting each other in difficult times, working towards a shared goal and of course improving fitness.

Will Greenwood (pictured), RWC 2003 winner and England Rugby 2015 ambassador said: “I want Rugby World Cup 2015 to act as a catalyst to get more people finding out what their local rugby clubs can offer in terms of a community and a support base. A rugby club is a great place to be around all through the week. It can be a real anchor; not just in terms of health and fitness but also a social life and developing friendships.

"There is no better way to do this than to work with the young players in the clubs who are hugely passionate about the game. Two years out from the tournament, the Young Rugby Ambassador programme sets the foundations to get clubs fully involved in Rugby World Cup 2015 and it is so exciting to see such enthusiasm across the country."

Cllr Rosie Denham added: “With Exeter being a Host City for the Rugby World Cup 2015, we want this international sporting event to have a lasting impact on the city. The Young Rugby Ambassador programme is the ideal opportunity for young people to be involved with the development of the game and for them be role models for the game of rugby”.

There will be up to four Young Rugby Ambassadors from each rugby club, along with adult mentors who will work with them to provide advice and guidance, ensuring that they receive the support they need. The next group of young volunteers will be recruited by May next year.