Leicestershire and Rutland Rugby Union are seeking a positive and forward thinking individual for the role of Director of Rugby.

The post holder will be responsible for co-ordinating the delivery of representative rugby to players from ages 15+ from all clubs in the CB (Constituent Body) and both men and women. Programmes operate throughout the season for different age groups culminating in the end of season competitions for senior men and women. In previous years, Leicestershire has had great success with teams across all age groups and some spectacular finals played at Twickenham. In 2019, the men won Division 2 of the Bill Beaumont Cup and in 2021, the women won Division 1 of the Gill Burns Cup making them the top amateur county side in the country.

Leicestershire Rugby Union are looking for someone who can acknowledge the successes of the past and grow them into a positive experience for players and coaches whilst adapting to the ever changing rugby union landscape. The Director of Rugby will be at the forefront of creating and maintaining a sense of pride in putting on a county shirt by delivering a high standard of rugby across all ages and genders.

The post holder can expect to receive reasonable reimbursement for expenses and must be able to travel to different clubs around the county to promote the programmes and build relationships with clubs that support players with their development. 

Closing date for applications – August 13th at midnight

Applicants should complete the volunteer application form and send a covering letter detailing relevant qualifications and experience with the game delivery of rugby union. The job description can be downloaded from the link below and applicants should ensure their application is relevant to the job description.

Applications should be sent to hon-sec@leicestershirerugbyunion.co.uk 

Interviews will take place by arrangement in the weeks following the closing date with a view to appoint as soon as possible. Any questions regarding the role to be directed to Gail Bates, Hon Secretary by email above.

Director of Rugby

DoR Application Form

The first season of the U16’s girls England Rugby Development Player Pathway (ERDPP) has been a great success with 6 players being selected for this forthcoming seasons Centre of Excellence with Loughborough Lightening.

Congratulations to:

• Grace Abela Georg
• Tamsin Baynes
• Cammie Oxley
• Ashton Adcock
• Poppy Mills
• Grace Collins

Tamsin and Ashton have also been invited for England 18s training.

Head Coach for the programme Stephen Duffus said 

“We are delighted to see these players selected the stage for the Centre of Excellence, its a testament to their hard work and dedication, I wish them good luck in this exciting next step of their journey”

Dear All,

A lot has happened since our last campaign and with the new one here at our doorstep it is
only right to share updates with players, coaches and clubs alike.

Earlier in the season Chris Campbell stepped down from the head coach role of
Leicestershire Men’s. Chris has had another successful season with Hinckley and is taking
some well-deserved time to rest and enjoy family time.
Chris gave an enormous amount of time and effort to county rugby winning the Bill
Beaumont Championship Div 2 in 2019 and steering the team in Division 1 for the first time.
Chris departs with a great amount of thanks from the players, coaches and management
team and admiration of the committee.

I’m happy to announce that Chris McAuley will be leading the program for this season
building to the future. Chris also has had a wonderful season being a key part of the
coaching behind Leicester Lions winning the National 2 West Championship, as well as
being involved with the County set up last season too. Chris will be joined on training nights
by a new coaching team and supported by the Leicestershire Barbarians program as we
encourage more players from level 6 and below to join the level 5 players, and build our core
of players.

Barbarians will run in conjunction to aid us in finding the hidden talent pool. Helping our
wider player base develop can help our clubs benefit taking advantage of their progress.
The goal for the program at the new level is the start of rebuilding Club Leicestershire Rugby
for Senior Men’s. Developing a new player base and brand of rugby we can take to the
future to be successful. Finding the hidden talents as well as recognising the standout
players to build our most competitive squad. Things will be different, but by no means do
they have to be any less fun and rewarding that they have been in the past.

As with all of our county rugby programs, enjoyment is the number one priority for all after a
tough club year, we want to celebrate the season together and represent Leicestershire to
the highest quality. That’s why we’re looking to ensure our training nights are fun & beneficial
to all involved, without putting a toll on the body. Our games, will be those to remember.
Without the support of the players and clubs, we as Leicestershire cannot hit the heights we
all know we can. That’s why this future plan, which starts now, relies on our strong rugby
community within the County, players, coaches, volunteers. I do hope that as many of you
can and do become a part of things to come.

Kindest Regards
Leon Brown
Leicestershire Senior Men’s & U20 Manager

Rob Knapp ‘ Knappy’ sadly passed away on 11th March 2023 following a hospital stay after a stroke.

Our President John Brindley has said a few words:

‘Rob was part of the juniors section in Syston RFC before moving to Burton, on his return to the county he joined the new club of Sileby Vikings. His love of the game was clear; becoming a ref along side playing, he was always willing to help clubs out at short notice. A very warm character and always offering a helping hand to those in need. A great servant to rugby and will be greatly missed by many.
Our sympathy and thoughts go out to his family and friends at this time.’