Play Like A Chief proves a smash hit with Devon youngsters

By Mark Stevens
10/5/23

Over 5,000 youngsters from across Devon have prospered from the Exeter Chiefs Community department partnering with Gallagher Insurance to run a specialist rugby programme designed for schools entitled ‘Play Like A Chief’.

Using rugby as a tool to develop individuals, both on and off the field, the highly-successful 12-week programme aims to provide high quality, engaging and fun rugby coaching to secondary schools.

Having worked in local secondary schools for over five years, the Community Chiefs noticed there was an opening for them to provide specialist input for pupils keen to learn more about the game.

With many schools not having a specialist rugby teacher to teach the various facets of the modern-day game due to the fear around the contact or the increased awareness around head injuries, the idea of welcoming in the Community Chiefs have proved hugely beneficial for the eight schools where the programme has been delivered.

“Since the pandemic we have noticed a significant drop off in the amount of people playing rugby in schools and at local clubs,” said Aron Struminski, Community Development Manager for the Exeter Chiefs. “With schools struggling to offer an introduction into the sport, many young people have either lost interest or had bad experiences and this has contributed to the dwindling numbers.

“By introducing ‘Play Like A Chief’ into the eight schools, we have been able to reignite interest in the game with so many children. Our programme is designed to not only cover the fundamentals of the game in a safe and sound manner, but also a fun and engaging environment.

“Already we have seen some fantastic success stories with a number of youngsters either continuing their activities within the school or at their local club. For us, this is hugely satisfying and underlines just how powerful this programme – which has had fantastic support from Gallagher Insurance – can be in helping to develop the game, but also getting youngsters active within sport.”

Schools who have engaged in the ‘Play Like A Chief’ programme are Clyst Vale Community College, Dawlish Community College, Honiton College, Paignton Academy, Queen Elizabeth School, Maynard’s School, Bucklers Mead and Exmouth School.