On Friday 17th February, two RFU Community Rugby Coaches from Leicestershire & Rutland, Phil Milton and Tim Westwood, took 8 valued volunteers from Schools and clubs around the County to Twickenham to watch the senior England team open training session.
After an early 6am start for representatives of Ashby, Belgrave, Market Bosworth and Lutterworth rugby clubs as well as Fullhurst, Rushey Mead and New Colleges, and an interesting navigation of some of the streets of Twickenham, the group arrived in perfect time to see Eddie Jones lead out the players for an intensive 90 minute session. Once the session had concluded, the volunteers were lucky enough to have the chance to meet some of the players, getting Photos and autographs, before heading off to the Rugby museum and the England Rugby store. A “cheeky” Nando’s en-route back to the midlands topped off a great day! Below are some comments from the group:
“It was a great event to be part of, I felt honoured to have gone with the RFU in recognition of the work I put in at club level.”
“I don’t give my hours into rugby to have any kind of benefits, indeed the rewards I gain are from the enjoyment of children in the sport, this is seen on their faces week in and out and I hope my involvement in some small way helps achieve these smiles. That said however receiving the call from Tim and being part of the day was a great “Pat on the Back” and everyone likes this from time to time!!”
“The day was informal, which was perfect, some giggles had along the way and a real sense of pride in the RFU but most importantly in what each of us does at grassroots “– Nigel Harrison (Ashby RFC)
“The day was unforgettable. As a huge rugby fan with both playing and coaching seeing how it is meant to be done by the experts was really insightful and I am so grateful for the opportunity. Getting up close to the players and getting my cast signed was also something I will not forget in a hurry!!” – Jack Wildsmith (Fullhurst Community College)
“Definitely had a top day from start to finish. Certainly I’m appreciative of being asked and being facilitated for on the day and for what was my first trip to Twickenham it was a memorable one with some great people. Atmosphere, rugby, people and of course decent weather which a typical February day wouldn’t be normally known for, the day as a whole was just a typical example as to why I love this great sport “– Leon Brown (Lutterworth RFC)
“The day was great, good to see what the England squad do in a training session, listening to what the speakers had to say and see what you can adapt at club level” – Helen Earp (Market Bosworth RFC)
