Beyoncé and celebrity friends, among them Madonna and Jennifer Lopez, converted the Home of England Rugby to a women’s rights arena at the Sound of Change Live charity concert at the start of this month (June). The event was beamed to 150 countries, raising £2.8 million to promote women’s health, education and justice worldwide.

Beyoncé, was joined on stage by her husband Jay-Z. “It’s time for change. Let’s chime for change. This is such an incredible night for me,” she told the 55,000 crowd.

Jessie J opened the concert, Simon Le Bon performed with Timbaland, and J-Lo and Mary J. Blige delivered The Beatles’ Come Together, in a star-studded show which also featured the likes of John Legend, Florence + The Machine and Rita Ora.

Madonna, Freida Pinto, Aishwarya Rai, Jada Pinkett Smith, James Franco, Ryan Reynolds, Jessica Chastain and feminist icon Gloria Steinem were among the presenters and Prince Harry sent a videotaped message of support.

Beyoncé, with actress-producer Salma Hayek Pinault and Gucci creative director Frida Giannini, is co-founder of the Chime for Change charity, which aims to improve education, health care and justice for women. Partner organizations include UNICEF, the Global Fund for Women and Plan International.

The Official Newspaper of The RFU

June/July 2013Issue 158

1

Paul BoltonTracy Edmundson has become the first female to be elected as an RFU Council member and steps up to be one of the two representatives for Notts, Lincs & Derbyshire at the Union’s AGM on July 14th.

She replaces Alex Murphy, who has resigned from the Council after starting a new job in India. The other candidates were Alan Shaw of North Hykeham and Alan Swain of Newark. Although Deborah Griffin has represented women’s rugby on the RFU Council since 2010, Edmundson is the first woman to be elected to serve one of the RFU Constituent Bodies.

Said Paul Murphy, President of the RFU, “We are delighted to welcome Tracy as the first elected female RFU Council member. Her election is a landmark one for the RFU but she represents the important and growing contribution being made by women and girls to rugby in clubs and Constituent Bodies in England.

“At a time when participation figures in women’s and girls’ rugby are at an all-time high, an increasing number of women are being elected to senior posts in our clubs and Constituent Bodies.”

First ElEctEd FEmalE council mEmbEr

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A new kind of lineout at Twickenham

sound oF changE livE

haskEll and varndEll join in with natwEst rugbyForce

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Emma KennedyJames Haskell and Tom Varndell rolled up their sleeves to support Weybridge Vandals with their NatWest RugbyForce project this month (June) when the club were one of 400 taking part in the weekend of DIY to improve their facilities with the support of volunteers and the local community.

The London Wasps duo helped clear overgrown areas to create the additional playing space needed for the club’s mini and junior section, which now has more than 300 members. The changing rooms were also given a makeover to better cater for female teams and officials.

James Haskell said: “I like to think of myself as a bit of a DIY expert so it’s been great to get involved at Weybridge. There’s been nearly 100 volunteers, an incredible BBQ and an atmosphere which proves why a rugby club is like a second home. I know that I owe a lot to my first club Maidenhead RFC.

Tracy Edmundson

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rEvisit rugby world cup 2003

Will we ever forget that lineout take from Lewis Moody; the break from Matt Dawson; Jonny Wilkinson nicely in the pocket; Ian Robertson’s commentary, ‘He drops for World Cup glory. It’s over. He’s done it’?

It’s moments that we would all love to relive and now we have the chance. Members of that magical squad will lace up their boots once more to face legends from the Australia team which they beat back on that night in Sydney.

Jason Leonard, Martin Corry, Lewis Moody and Ben Cohen will be among the team taking on the Australia Rugby Legends at the Twickenham Stoop on Thursday 31 October (7:45pm) kicking off a weekend of celebrations to mark 10 years since England lifted the Webb Ellis trophy.

The full England squad will reunite for the first time since 2003 at the official Anniversary Dinner at Battersea Evolution the following evening (Friday 1 November) before attention turns to future challenges when the current England team play Australia in the QBE Internationals on Saturday 2 November.

The weekend honours the achievements of the Rugby World Cup winning squad and all proceeds from the Legends Match and Anniversary Dinner will go to rugby charities – the Rugby Football Union’s Injured Players Foundation (IPF) and the Rugby Players Association’s Restart.

England’s most capped player, Jason Leonard said: “We are honoured that the Australian Barbarians are travelling half-way round the world to compete and help celebrate the 10-year

anniversary of England winning the World Cup. I am positive we will raise valuable funds for our nominated rugby charities, put on an entertaining display of legends rugby and have fun with old friends and team mates in the process!”

He will be joined by fellow forwards Martin Corry, Lewis Moody and Mark Regan and supported by a strong back line including Josh Lewsey, Ben Cohen, Andy Gomarsall and Austin Healey. Individual and team rivalries will be renewed when Justin Harrison, Matt Cockbain, Al Baxter, Chris Whitaker, Richard Harry and Tim Horan take to the pitch. Each side will contain up to eight 2003 World Cup legends and further exciting announcements will be made over the coming months.

The fixture is being organised by Sportingclass who have been responsible for legends matches for the past four years in which 14 members of the 2003 World Cup squad have featured. Said their Managing Director Andy Lee: “I am really excited to be bringing the Australian Barbarians over to play the England Legends as part of the official RFU celebrations of winning the Rugby World Cup 10 years ago. Interest has been huge and we are hoping to have a sell-out at the Twickenham Stoop that night.”

Tickets: For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.quins.co.uk Tickets prices start at £10 for children and concessions and £20 for adults.

For further details on the 10 Year Anniversary Dinner and to book a table visit www.rfu.com/tenyearanniversary

Continued from page 1…Continued from page 1…

The World Cup is only two years away and interest in rugby is only going to increase – as players we’ll make sure we’re ready for 2015 while NatWest RugbyForce is helping clubs get in shape.”

As part of an enhanced programme for 2013, clubs were awarded grants of either £250, £500 or £4000 to make renovations, with the aim of becoming more sustainable businesses. In April, 175 clubs were invited to attend workshops to help plan their projects and get the most out of the weekend. Several clubs upgraded kitchen facilities to reduce long term overheads but a common objective for a number of clubs was to make their club houses more attractive for use by the local community. As at Weybridge, the priority for others was to expand or enhance their facilities to be able to accommodate and encourage new members.

North Hykeham RUFC were crowned Pride of the Nation following a NatWest RugbyForce competition to find the best supported rugby club in England. In less than three weeks over 21,000 votes were received online. Ellesmere Port RUFC, Newent RFC and Shoreham RFC were regional winners but the Midlands club claimed the national title after standing outside Sainsbury’s canvasing votes. England legend Phil Vickery visited North Hykeham to support their NatWest RugbyForce Weekend.

To see photos or to share your club’s NatWest RugbyForce story visit www.facebook.com/natwestrugbyforce

haskEll and varndEll join in with natwEst rugbyForce

Edmundson has been an active member of Derby RFC since 2002 and holds a number of key voluntary roles in the club, including serving as colts manager, minis and junior section secretary, assistant safeguarding officer and club coaching co-ordinator administrator.

She is also a member of the NLD Rugby Development Partnership Executive Committee, a member of the Midlands 16 Group Committee and is team manager of the NLD Under 16 team.

“It’s a great honour to be the first female to be elected to the RFU Council but I don’t believe that I have been elected by the clubs in NLD because I am a woman,” Edmundson said. “I believe that clubs have looked at the experience that I have at club and Constituent Body level and the way that they think I can represent them at Twickenham.

“Alex Murphy has left some very big shoes for me to fill but I believe that with Mike Waplington, the other RFU Council Member for NLD, we can form a good team and represent the interests of rugby in the three counties.”

Edmundson worked in advertising and marketing for 12 years and currently works for a management consultancy which specialises in procurement, energy and management systems.

“The skills I have gained through work and my involvement to date in rugby show my ability to build and maintain good working relationships and to enable others to fulfil their potential. I am looking forward to the new role,” she said.

Edmundson, 48, has two grown-up children and a grandson. She is originally from Wolverhampton but has lived in Derby for the past 28 years.

First ElEctEd FEmalE council mEmbEr

paralympian star mEntors England undEr 20sStefan CurtisSix-time Paralympic champion David Weir CBE visited England Under 20s at their pre Junior World Championship training camp and, as part of his mentoring role for the BMW Performance Academy, talked to players about performing under pressure and driving for success. He answered players’ questions and posed for photographs with his haul of medals.

The man affectionately known as “Weir Wolf” was impressed with the squad’s enthusiasm. “They seem like a good bunch of young lads, professional and switched on,” he said. “You have to be 100 per cent dedicated in your sport if you want to perform at a high level. I think it’s quite important as a youngster to be disciplined as well. If you really want it you will be willing to make those sacrifices.

“A lot of the players were asking me about my performance and you could see that desire in their eyes to do well. They were asking about doing well on the track and how it felt to win gold medals. I think they want to feel that buzz. If I had any advice for them, it would be not to get complacent when you do start to win. You just have to take each day as it comes and look after yourself.”

England Under 20s Captain Jack Clifford added: “It was an honour to meet David. Although our sports are totally different, there are lots of similarities in how we prepare for big matches or races. We can definitely learn from his experience of performing at the highest level.”

Joe Lydon has been appointed the RFU’s Head of International Player Development. The rugby league great and former England Attack and England Sevens coach, currently Head of Rugby at the Welsh Rugby Union, will lead and manage the international performance pathway, providing a pipeline of international players for England Rugby.

RFU Chief Executive Ian Ritchie said: “This is a critical building block in the RFU’s departmental reorganisation, ensuring that there will be a clear focus on long-term development. Joe is a fantastic addition to the RFU and I am confident he will help ensure future success at all levels.”

Reporting to England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster in the new International Performance Department, Lydon will join the RFU at a date to be confirmed.

Lancaster said: “Joe has a huge amount of experience as a player, coach and head of a successful performance and development structure in Wales and I am looking forward to working with him. He will be responsible for developing and managing a world-class system of international player development for all our teams. We would like to build on the current system of talent identification, development and selection process that ensures that we have a continual supply of high quality international players for England.”

Lydon, whose remit will include England Saxons, U20s, U18s, Sevens and the Women’s senior, Sevens and U20 teams, returns to the RFU where, between 2000 and 2006, he coached England senior, Saxons, Sevens and Under 19 teams. Under Lydon, England won the Hong Kong Sevens in 2002, 2003 and 2004. He was England Skills Coach for the pre-2003 World Cup training camp and then first-team Attack Coach between 2004 and 2006.

He had earlier been Chief Executive Officer and Performance Director at Wigan Warriors, a club he served as a player. Lydon played in 32 rugby league Tests for Great Britain and earned a place in the Guinness Book of Records in the Challenge Cup semi final against Warrington at Maine Road in 1989 when he kicked a 61-yard drop goal.

He said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time within Welsh Rugby and I feel proud and privileged to have helped the WRU make great strides in performance and development over the last five years. I’d like to thank Welsh Rugby for the fantastic opportunity and the support and guidance provided by so many along the way.

“I’m now looking forward to a new challenge and to contribute to the development of players within the RFU pathway. There is already some great talent coming through the system and I am looking forward to working with Stuart, the other coaches and performance staff to maximise that potential as we move to 2015 and beyond.”

winlaton win thE whistlErsTony Simpson

Rugby fans always have an eye on the referee and but in Durham County the scenario is one of role reversal, with Durham officials keeping an eye on the clubs they visit.

For over 20 years referees have made a note of their reception and how clubs, teams and players at the host club conduct themselves. The scoring system awards points on a number of factors, including confirmation of game, punctuality of kick-off, changing facilities, assistant referees, pitch markings, posts and flags, hospitality, team dress, medical facilities and discipline.

The highest scoring club is awarded the much sought after Whistlers Trophy and this season West Tyne club Winlaton Vulcans secured the title for the first time, the trophy being presented to Winlaton’s Craig MacFarlane by Referee Society Treasurer David Sawyer.

joE rEturns as rFu’s hEad oF intErnational playEr dEvElopmEnt

England sEvEns win EuropEan grand prix round onEJulia HuttonEngland Sevens picked up their second tournament win of the season this month (June) with victory in the Lyon leg of the European Grand Prix Series. The victory was a timely boost for Ben Ryan’s side before heading out to Russia for the Rugby World Cup Sevens.

England, who also won the New Zealand leg of the HSBC World Series in February, enjoyed an impressive second day of action seeing off Romania in the final pool game before a 21-7 win over World Series rivals France in the semi-finals and then a 33-5 victory over Russia in the final. In total, England conceded just 12 points on day two of the Grand Prix.

Despite making six changes to the side that finished third at the Marriott London Sevens, England powered to the cup final win with tries from Dan Bibby, John Brake, Mat Turner and a brace from Sam Edgerley. The victory was also England’s third consecutive win at this tournament.

Said England Sevens Head Coach Ryan: “It was great to take this win for the third time in a row and also get a championship win under our belts before Moscow. What impressed me most was the application we showed to defeat both France and Russia in the knock out games and also our defensive record. We have played a lot of rugby and to concede so few points is very pleasing.”

England headed into day two with three wins from four on the opening day. They swept aside the Ukraine 45-0 in the opener with Bibby scoring a hat-trick of tries. Next up was Spain and England ran in 33-5 winners with Turner this time touching down three times.

England then faced Georgia and a brace for Turner handed England a 20-12 win before a disappointing 12-7 defeat to Wales in the final game of the day. The second leg of the European Grand Prix series takes place in Bucharest in September.Newcastle Falcons celebrate their return to the Premiership

Nicol McLelland Newcastle Falcons secured the RFU Championship title and promotion to the Aviva Premiership in a hard-fought battle against Bedford Blues at Kingston Park last month (May).

Bedford Blues came into the second leg with a nine-point deficit and, despite producing a spirited display against the league’s top placed team, succumbed to two Falcons’ tries to leave them 16 points adrift at the final whistle.

The match brought a kicking battle between Falcons’ Jimmy Goppeth and the Blues’ Jake Sharp who put points on the scoreboard before Falcons wing Ryan Shortland scored the first try of the game. Full back Alex Tait scored the only other try in the final and his team celebrated a 31-24 win in front of a jubilant Kingston Park crowd.

For Dean Richards’ Newcastle Falcons, the win means an immediate return to the premiership, the side having dominated the Championship this season, losing only two of their 26 games.

Falcons rEturn to prEmiErship

Joe Lydon

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lancashirE 35 – 26 cornwall

England countiEs u20 makE it two From two in gEorgia

hartpury hEad to nEw sEason with high hopEs

andovEr youth acadEmy cElEbratEs succEss

surrEy rEtain county championship shiEld

guinnEss oFFicial bEEr oF England rugby

Emma KennedyEngland countiEs u20 25 – 13 gEorgia u20 England Counties U20 scored three tries in a tough contest against Georgia U20 at the Shevardeni High Performance Centre, Tiblisi to complete a successful tour both on and off the field.

A try from Gloucestershire prop Ricky Cano gave England a 6-11 lead at half time as both teams successfully kicked two penalties.

Three converted tries were scored at five minute intervals during an action-packed period early in the second half. Seven points to Georgia separated tries from scrum half Thomas Banks and Berkshire back-row Samir Kharbouch, both converted by Rob Avery-Wright.

Head Coach Bob Hood said: “This Test match was an excellent display of powerful, controlled and aggressive rugby played by two talented teams. The mid-week fixture against Georgia U20 Select XV was invaluable to our preparations as it gave an opportunity for every member of our squad to understand the demands of international rugby.

“This has been an excellent week in which we have achieved two wins and created a high quality developmental environment for every player. We are delighted with how this England Counties U20 programme continues to go from strength to strength.”

During the week the Counties U20s attended an Embassy reception and carried out coaching sessions in an orphanage in Tiblisi. The players were so moved by the outreach experience that they arranged for the children to be mascots and flag bearers for their Test.

Team Manager Malcolm Ross said: “The players have been outstanding ambassadors for England Rugby and demonstrated absolute commitment and unity to beat a strong and well supported Georgian side. This is a country whose rugby is going places and I am delighted that the England Counties U20 have been able to support the continued development of Georgian rugby.”

Surrey successfully defended the County Championship Shield with a narrow victory over Cumbria at Twickenham.

They opened their account on five minutes courtesy of captain Neil Hallett’s penalty. Try-scoring opportunities were scarce in an attritional first half and Alistair Ledingham failed to level the scores when his shot at goal from 45 metres dropped short. The Cumbria fly half quickly made amends, with two successful strikes.

Surrey lost number eight Ian White to the sin bin but were then awarded a penalty try and Hallett added the extras. Ledingham failed to reduce the deficit before the break, pushing a penalty attempt wide, but he was on-target seven minutes after the restart to bring Cumbria to within a single point. Hallett restored Surrey’s four-point advantage with his second penalty five minutes later.

Ledingham, however, proved the scourge of Surrey again as the 20 year old weaved through from a tapped penalty for his side’s first try, before converting superbly from out wide. Surrey struck back immediately when replacement Will Crow rolled his way over the line following Matt Betty’s impressive run, although Hallett failed to secure the conversion.

Hallett and Ledingham then both missed penalty attempts as nerves frayed, but the former knocked over another three-pointer with the final kick of the match to secure Surrey’s second consecutive Shield victory.

Said Surrey captain, Neil Hallett: “It was very physical, Cumbria competed so well at the break-down and at times put us off our stride. They certainly tested us. Fortunately, we were able to dig deep and hold out. There is such small margin for error – they had a penalty to take the lead with around six minutes to go, which could have swayed it, but I always thought that it was going to be our day, I knew that we had the firepower and the belief.”

rEd rosE county risE to occasionLancashire lifted the Bill Beaumont Cup for the fourth time in five seasons after an action-packed victory over Cornwall at Twickenham.

Paul Thirlby opened the scoring for the Cornishmen with three minutes on the clock when his 45-metre penalty crept over the crossbar. Lancashire’s Chris Johnson quickly restored parity before converting wing Nick Royle’s superb diving finish in the corner to edge his side ahead. Thirlby replied with another three points, but Lancashire increased their lead to 15-6 within seconds when No.8 Dominic Moon crashed over out wide after Daniel Birchall’s rampaging carry.

Cornwall’s difficult task became even tougher when Royle grabbed his second, the former England Sevens man intercepting a wayward pass to race home from 35 metres for a score improved by Johnson. But the Duchy side were resilient and clawed five points back before the break when centre Neilson Webber burrowed over from close range.

Cornwall emerged for the second period with great intent, and were within touching distance on 53 minutes as referee Wayne Falla awarded a penalty try for Lancashire’s collapsing of another catch-and-drive. In an end-to-end half, Johnson kicked a penalty and a drop goal to one penalty from Thirlby to send Lancashire into the last 10 minutes with a seven-point lead.

The latter had the chance to tie the game at 28-28 three minutes from time when replacement Lewis Vinnicombe sneaked over, but he hooked his conversion well wide and Ben Rath sealed victory for Lancashire in the final play.

Lancashire captain, Louis McGowan said: “As soon we knew we were playing Cornwall we were ready for a tough match. There was huge support from the South West and the atmosphere was incredible. It was awesome to play at Twickenham and credit to Cornwall for the way they pushed us right to the end, with five minutes to go they were kicking to equalise. I didn’t need to say a word to the lads though, they knew we needed to dig deep and close them down. I’m immensely proud of every player. There are a lot of young lads in this squad – it’s a good future for Lancashire.”

Emma KennedyThe RFU has named Guinness as the Official Beer of England Rugby. Building on decades of rugby heritage, the new enhanced four-year partnership marks a key milestone for both parties as England Rugby prepares for an exciting few years ahead.

Diageo and the RFU’s announcement confirms the Guinness brand’s commitment to international rugby and the brewer is continuing its promotion of responsible drinking by maintaining its designation as Official Responsible Drinking Partner of England Rugby.

The new partnership builds on the brand’s strong presence in and around Twickenham Stadium, with Guinness and the RFU working collaboratively to enhance the fan experience on international match days. Celebrating a passion for rugby, the partnership will create unique opportunities to deliver engaging experiences for all supporters, not just those at Twickenham.

Sophie Goldschmidt, Chief Commercial Officer at the RFU commented: “We are delighted to be announcing another long term partnership with a brand that has a strong rugby association and shares our aims to prioritise fan engagement. This new broadened partnership with Guinness is in line with our strategy to have integrated more enhanced partnerships and we are looking forward to working with them to provide the best match day experience for fans.”

Stephen O’Kelly, Marketing Director Guinness Western Europe added: “This announcement marks the next stage of our on-going commitment to international and England Rugby. We are delighted that Guinness has become the Official Beer of England Rugby at an incredibly exciting time for the sport in this market. This partnership demonstrates our commitment to pouring great pints of the black stuff, promoting responsible drinking and engaging fans on match days.”

To kick off the beer brand’s new role as Official Beer, the RFU and makers of Guinness offered one England fan the opportunity to help create the best Guinness match day experience, being trained in pouring the perfect pint of the black stuff at the brand’s bar in London and consulted as Official Guinness ‘Fanbassador’ on match day activity in the West Car Park fan zone. The prize also includes joining the Guinness team at Twickenham for every home game of next season.

England international, Chris Robshaw, who will be on the judging panel to choose the lucky winner said: “The support of fans makes a real difference to the players on the field and while we are concentrating on delivering results, Guinness understands that fans are after an extraordinary experience off the pitch. I can think of no better person to help advise Guinness than a true fan of the game.”

The partnership between GUINNESS and the RFU is also accompanied by renewed partnerships for Guinness with the Six Nations (SNRL), Scottish Rugby Union (SRU), Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) and Premiership Rugby further cementing the brand’s commitment to rugby as the sport’s profile continues to rise in the market.

Unbeaten in the UK in over 40 games, a fourth consecutive championship title under their belts and the prospect of a handful of new signings sees Hartpury College U18s looking forward to a new season.

Coach, Sean Marsden’s AASE Championship winning team have a number of promising first year students returning to study and play next year as well as new recruits, many already linked to professional clubs, starting at the college come September. During the season back row forwards Lewis Ludlow and Andy Hughes, who have recently accepted academy places with Premiership sides Gloucester and Sale respectively, were selected to play for England U18.

Ludlow, together with fellow Gloucester Academy players, Reese Boughton and Ryan Charles, will also be part of a group of around ten students returning to study degree programmes at the university. Ellis Genge, this year’s captain, will also continue to study at the college after accepting an academy contract with Bristol Rugby.

A number of the players will be hoping to emulate former Hartpury academy players such as Dan Robson, Ryan Mills, Koree Britton, Elliott Stooke and Ross Moriarty (all Gloucester) and Callum Braley (Bristol) by progressing to club contracts and further international recognition.

Having wrapped up the AASE Championship title the team, at the invitation of the RFU, flew to Japan to take part in the Sanix World Rugby Youth Invitational Tournament, which brings together a number of Japanese colleges with the cream of schools rugby from around the world.

Hartpury cruised through the group stages, racking up large scores along the way. Unfortunately, despite beating strong opponents in their quarter and semi-final matches, they came up short in one of their toughest challenges to date in the form of New Zealand side, St. Kentigern College, losing 40-8 in the final.

Director of Rugby, Alan Martinovic was upbeat about his side’s experience. “The boys proved that they are able to compete with the best and can keep their heads held high going into next season. They witnessed different styles of rugby, and experienced a different atmosphere to what they’re used to at home, which will only help their development. It’s been a life changing experience for them and we’re all really looking forward to the start of the new season and showing what we’ve learned.”

cumbria 16 – 21 surrEy

Simplyhealth sponsored Andover Youth Academy’s season ended in style with a presentation day entitled Celebrating Success.

Academy Chairman Clive Redshaw welcomed some 350 young players, parents and relations to a large marquee on the club’s first team pitch. Her Worship Janet Whiteley the new TVBC Mayor and her consort Neville Whiteley, together with local MP Sir George Young and Jacqui and Ivan Gentlemen from the Jamie G sports trust, were among the guests and numerous sponsors applauding boys and girls receiving awards.

The main awards were presented by the club’s Executive Chairman, Shaun Rule, and London Irish Community Manager, Ben Lee. Each team had a Coach’s Player and Most Improved Player. Silver salvers were presented to two Andover players – Callum Farr and Jordan Gray, selected to

play for their respective Hampshire teams.The Academy Junior Clubman Award was presented to

Connor Green, from the Colts squad, who in the opinion of his coaches displayed real dedication to his team during the past year, including coaching some of the younger teams. The Academy Senior Clubman’s Award was presented to Mick Roscoe, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes organising various fund raising events to ensure the success of the Presentation Day.

The Youth Academy will kick off the new season in style, having received a further £12,000 from healthcare provider Simplyhealth which will help towards the cost of the club’s end of season pitch maintenance programme as well as the planned refurbishment of the clubhouse heating and hot water system.

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Nicola MarshallJames Dingemans QC has been appointed the RFU’s first Independent Head of Rugby Judiciary, the post created to ensure absolute independence between the prosecutorial and judicial functions of discipline at the RFU.

The Independent Head of Rugby Judiciary will be the senior member of the RFU’s independent judiciary and will be primarily responsible for safeguarding the reputation of the RFU through clear, consistent and fair decision making in disciplinary, appeal and other panels.

RFU CEO Ian Ritchie said, “James brings the perfect combination of exceptional legal expertise and a lifelong passion for rugby. He is hugely respected in his professional life and it has just been announced that he will be appointed a High Court Judge in June, bringing his enormous knowledge and fine judgement to this independent position. We are very lucky to have been able to attract someone of this high calibre.”

Dingemans has acted in numerous public and private enquiries, including The Hutton Inquiry as leading counsel; The Leveson Enquiry; The Potters Bar rail accident inquest; and The Football Association Independent Review. He has also played the game to a high level, gaining an Oxford Blue in the winning Varsity side in 1985, going on to play for many years at Ealing Rugby Club, finally playing his last match aged 44.

James Dingemans said, “I accept I am now too old to play rugby, but I am thrilled to be able to continue my involvement with the game. It is a great privilege to be asked to lead a team of experienced disciplinary panel members. Together we will try to ensure that the outcome of disciplinary hearings preserve rugby’s unique character, values and inclusiveness.”

James Dingemans will start this unpaid role on August 1st 2013.

rFu indEpEndEnt hEad oF rugby judiciary

England womEn sEvEns sEcond in world sEriEsJulia Hutton

England Women finished second in the inaugural IRB World Sevens Series this season behind New Zealand after their fourth place finish in the final leg in Amsterdam in May. Barry Maddocks’ side knew they were unable to take the series title after New Zealand booked their place in the semi-final, but the England Head Coach always underlined that England’s priority is the Rugby World Cup this season.

Maddocks said: “The World Cup is the most important tournament for us and that is why for every round of the World Series we have taken a completely different squad. We want to give as many players in our Elite Playing Squad the chance to put their hands up for Russia.”

FriEndships and Fun For mum michElEHugh Godwin

rEFs battlE For Four nations golF honours The third annual LV= SOS Kit Aid Golf Day at Ullesthorpe Hotel and Golf Club saw 30 teams challenging for the various prizes including the inaugural Four Nations Challenge, reflecting the British and Irish Lions, won by Scotland’s Ginger Sluggers featuring the refereeing quartet of Peter Allan, Andrew McMenemy, Colin Brett and Andrew MacPherson.

The après golf was expertly hosted by England’s Wayne Barnes who posed questions to the panel comprising the legendary former Lions Graham Price and John Taylor along with another top international referee and Ireland cricketer Alan Lewis.

Other prize winners were: Runner Up Team Score, Andy’s Artisans (Lutterworth RFC) and Top Individual Score, Scott Clarke (Leicester Tigers).

If your club has kit to donate visit www.lvsoskitaid.com

bishop’s stortFord trEblE

Bishop’s Stortford RFC’s season ended with them celebrating a unique Triple Crown of national and county titles in their most successful stretch ever at Silver Leys.

They won the regional National League 3 London & South East to earn promotion to National League Two, landed the County President’s Cup and the National Colts Cup. This success is built on the continuous production line of young talent from very large mini and youth sections which continue to thrive. Mini teams have had notable victories at numerous festivals and the newly reformed

Ladies section have had early signs of success with the U15s winning their league.

Off the field the club is also able to call upon a large pool of willing volunteers who have organised two mini festivals, an international U13s festival, the largest firework display in the area and an inaugural Charity Ladies Day in which the first XV squad were instrumental. The Bishop’s Stortford message is: One Club United from Seniors to Minis.

Hugh Godwin

EvErybody wins at witnEy’s inclusion FEstival

Witney rugby club’s tag festival for special needs teams saw clubs and schools from England, Wales and Ireland enjoy a great weekend of competitive matches, coaching and entertainment.

Witney RFC have run the Witney Wolves special needs rugby squad for children aged 7-18 for the past five seasons and previous years have seen this event hosted at large venues such as Bristol, Belfast and Worcester. Everyone was excited to see the festival take place in Oxfordshire.

The Friday evening saw teams arrive to train before a warming meal in the clubhouse. RFU President, Paul Murphy, was there to back the event and the RFU provided inflatable obstacle courses, skills games and the RFU dome.

At Saturday’s morning skills sessions Oxfordshire provided their community rugby coaches and society referees covered the tournament. The RAF Falcons swooped out of the sky, parachuting onto the main pitch and meeting everyone for photos and programme signing. Eynsham Morris Dancers added to the fun, with some interactive drumming from the Irish visitors!

More than 200 players took to the pitches from the 18 clubs and schools taking part, everyone smiling while displaying determination, speed and impressive skill levels. Teams at under and over 15 years were divided according to skills so that all abilities were included, and a number of wheelchair children and their carers also took part, careering around the pitches with great agility.

The organisation was masterminded by Ian and Linda Paul from the Witney Wolves rugby squad

whose energy and determination saw the festival achieve its aim of fun and inclusion for all.

“It is difficult to explain what the event means to us” said Linda, “No one cares if they win or lose, all they know is that they are having fun and are taking part in their own festival like able bodied children. A friend was totally overawed by the fun everyone had. She has seen how our son James has struggled in everyday life and yet to her the disability disappeared when he was taking part in the festival.”

Medals were presented to all by Tony Toner from Airbus Military UK, the main tournament sponsor, Wing Commander Glyn Allcock, and Witney club President Pat Hall. The Fair Play cups went to The Hampshire Hurricanes in the under 15s and The Newforge Taggers from Belfast in the over 15s. Teams then enjoyed a BBQ banquet and disco before heading back to their hotels for a well-earned rest. The festival would not have been possible without fundraising to meet the £20K budget and Witney RFC are deeply indebted to all in the town, county and RFU who helped achieve this.

Oxfordshire RDO Dusty Miller summed up the event, saying, “Events such as this further demonstrate the inclusivity of rugby union. Nick Todd and Gary Morris, the Oxfordshire CRCs, worked hard co-ordinating and facilitating coaching sessions designed to allow the players to explore their creativity, build confidence and display their abundant individual characters. We were delighted to support Witney RFC, as this club really epitomises rugby’s values and it was such a privilege to be involved.”

If you think a mother of four in her 40s would be too busy to play rugby to a Championship-winning standard, then meet Aylesford’s Michele Mayhew. ‘Lady Mick’, as clubmates know her, is a second-row forward in the Aylesford team recently promoted to the Women’s Premiership – the higher level campaign being one she intends to take part in, despite other commitments, including being the club secretary.

Michele started playing rugby at Aylesford in 1999 when watching her then eight-year-old son Joshua. He is now 22 and has three sisters Emily, 20, Natasha, 15, and 14-year-old Mollie. “One of the other mums asked me if I would be interested and my initial reaction was ‘no’,” Michele recalls. “Then my husband Charles kind of dared me to do it. I went to training that Wednesday night, was completely hooked and the rest is history!”

Michele remembers what used to be a traditional, male-dominated club and how her father was against her playing rugby, advising her to go back to netball. Her brother-in-law was another dissenter, and has never watched her play to the present day, when Michele counts former England captain Catherine Spencer among her Aylesford friends and team-mates.

Through the dedication of Michele and many others, Aylesford has become more of an all-round family friendly club. Her daughters help look after other rugby-playing mothers’ children, so everyone can have their fun and Michele trains or plays three times a week.

“Both my sisters have watched me play, even if neither of them understands what drives me to do it. Rugby has sometimes been a very welcome distraction, giving me an identity outside my family not to mention all the benefits of playing active sport,” she says. “But the biggest motivation has been the very talented girls

coming through our youth set up. My major goal has been to give them a senior team to aspire to.

“In the early days we struggled with numbers, fixtures and even kit. Our coach at the time, along with our captain, set up a local friendly league and soon we were holding our own in the RFUW merit leagues. Now we have two squads to fill and are seeing many more girls turning up already having had a taste of rugby at their schools or universities,” says Michelle who captained Kent Women for five seasons and played in and managed teams at the Dubai Sevens.

However, her two rugby highlights are Aylesford’s winning play-off match against Thurrock to earn promotion this year, and a President’s match at Aylesford in 2008 when she captained her team against a President’s side led by Spencer.

“I love the personal challenge that rugby presents but most of all the friendships that I have made through rugby,” says Michele. “The perception of women’s rugby has definitely changed. When I first started playing very few people realised that women’s rugby existed; in truth, I didn’t realise it existed until I started playing. I just wish I’d discovered it when I was 18!”

England womEn u20s in nations cupJulia Hutton

England Women Under 20s compete in this summer’s Nations Cup at Trent College in Nottingham, Head Coach Amanda Bennett making a number of changes for the tournament that will see England take on South Africa, Canada and the USA in July.

Bennett called up ten players to make their U20s bow and they’ll be led by Bristol’s and Penryn’s Kayleigh Callway-Bawden. Bianca Blackburn has been named as vice-captain.

“The Nations Cup squad shows balance of U20s experience set against the raw talent of new players who we hope will step up to the mark on an international stage,” said Bennett. “The talent coming through the system gets stronger and more impressive each year.”

England play South Africa on July 11, Canada on July 14 and the USA on July 17. The final will be played on July 21.

Paula Rowe

rFu Expands o2 touch with nEw partnErships

Skipper Jason Smithson led from the front with two tries as Northumberland overwhelmed North Midlands in the County Championship Division 2 Plate Final at Twickenham. The Blaydon No.8 scored in each half as his side came from 10-0 down to claim the trophy.

Full back Caolan Ryan’s try, plus a penalty and conversion from his Moseley teammate Ollie Thomas, were a fair reflection of the opening 15 minutes. But Northumberland’s powerful forwards seized control of the middle of the match with Smithson, Northumbria University centre Tom Grimes and Tynedale flanker Sam Reynolds all scoring before the interval.

Any hopes North Mids had of working their way back into the match evaporated when their pack was shoved backwards under the posts with referee Craig Maxwell-Keys awarding Northumberland a penalty try. Their backs went to work after that with Grimes and Blaydon wing Simon Barber touching down again either side of Smithson’s second score before the former England Counties captain lifted the trophy aloft.

8 9Touchline – J u n e / J u l y 2 01 3 J u n e / J u l y 2013 – Touchline

England 40 – 12 barbariansA masterful performance from Freddie Burns led five-try England to a comfortable 40-12 victory over the Barbarians at Twickenham Stadium. Clinical with the boot and controlled with ball in hand on his first senior start, the Gloucester Rugby No.10 scored a try after 46 seconds before slotting three penalties and three conversions for 20 points as England dominated.

Marland Yarde, replacement Kyle Eastmond, Christian Wade and Billy Twelvetrees scored the other tries as England established at 40-0 lead, before late consolation scores for the Barbarians from Schalk Brits and Elliot Daly. With Stuart Lancaster and his 32-man squad departing for the three-game, two-Test South America tour there was much to please the England Head Coach.

East london sEvEns sEt to shinEOn Saturday 20th July at East London RFC, this year’s East London Sevens promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a 24-team men’s tournament, a 12-team women’s tournament, music throughout the games, live bands and a DJ until late, family entertainment, youth coaching and giant BBQ.

The tournaments will again be made up of teams from across London and the surrounding counties plus a few Barbarian and touring teams from further afar. To facilitate this larger tournament, the club is temporarily converting a couple of football pitches on Memorial Park with games running from 11am until 7pm.

mp imprEssEd with o2 touch at trojans

The RFU has expanded its O2 Touch initiative through new partnerships with In2Touch and the England Touch Association (ETA). The deals – each running for three years – sees In2Touch and the ETA work exclusively with the RFU and O2 Touch to expand the reach of and participation in touch across the country.

Broadening the reach and appeal of the game through touch is one of the key focus areas for the RFU to create a lasting legacy for the sport in the build up to and beyond the RWC in 2015.

These partnerships will:• See the 16 existing In2Touch-owned

leagues in England re-branded under the RFU/O2 Touch Rugby banner

• Grow the profile of and increase the participation rate in these existing leagues

• Set up and deliver new leagues under the RFU/O2 Touch Rugby banner

• Increase touch participation with priority of importance placed upon adults (aged 14+) in clubs and generally throughout communities in England

• Increase the number, and improve the quality, of touch referees and coaches in England through providing dedicated courses and qualifications by working with the ETA

• Support the ETA’s representative touch teams and enhance and widen the player pathways through RFU funding of international team wear.

Alastair Marks, RFU Head of Rugby

Growth said: “In2Touch and the ETA both have a wealth of expertise and experience in touch which will be invaluable as we look to grow the game’s profile and increase participation. These partnerships will help us expand our offer beyond our existing 51 club-based and ten university-based O2 Touch Centres. They will also see O2 Touch entering the league market for the first time. We are looking forward to introducing even more people to playing.”

Michael Abromowitz, Managing Director, In2Touch added: “The RFU, with the launch of the O2 Touch programme, have embarked on a fantastic initiative which we are very proud to be involved in and assist in hopefully becoming the premier touch programme, not just in Europe, but the world.”

Gregg Cropper, President of the ETA, said: “We have an established framework for touch in England, but the sport has a relatively low profile. By partnering with the strongest brand in world rugby, we truly believe we can take the sport to new levels – both in terms of participation numbers and performance.”

To get involved in O2 Touch sign up at www.rfu.com/o2Touch

For further information on touch in your area, or the opportunity to become an O2 Touch centre email O2touch@rfu.com

Verity Williams

northumbErland’s convincing twickEnham victorynorth midlands 10 – 45 northumbErland

Fun in twickEnham sun For England

Hugh Godwin

Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey & Southampton North, visited Trojans Rugby Club this month (June) and praised the O2 Touch activity at the club.

Trojans was one of the first clubs in the country to run weekly sessions of touch rugby under the RFU’s O2 Touch banner and currently there are 90-plus players taking part in a six-week summer touch league on Thursdays, in addition to the Monday night pitch up and play sessions aimed more at the social and fitness aspects of the game. Caroline Nokes spent a full evening at the club’s Stoneham Lane ground in Eastleigh, and was introduced to the thriving adult and junior rugby sections, as well as watching the touch league in action.

Said Caroline, “I was pleased to see so many men and women of all ages and abilities enjoying the O2 Touch evening sessions. Trojans is clearly a thriving club, and I was impressed by their eagerness to get more local people active and playing rugby. With further facility improvements and continuing support from the RFU and O2, I’m sure that the club will go from strength to strength.”

Neil Andrews, Trojans’ O2 Touch operator, said: “It was wonderful to host Caroline Nokes at the club, where she met a lot of Trojans members and watched touch being played. The weather was kind to us and showed off our pitches and facilities at their best.”

The range of interest at Trojans is demonstrated by players transferring from the Monday sessions into the Thursday league, where they play alongside members of the Trojans first-team squad. From teenagers to those in their 50s, the Thursday league comprises 10 teams including one from Southampton University and various combinations of Trojans players and friends of the club, plus a Barbarians side for anyone who turns up on the night.

dEvonport sErvicEs host Four nations EvEntAt the end of a very successful season Devonport Services held a mini international tournament when four teams from different countries; Devonport Services club team (England), Machynlleth RFC (Wales), Rugby Club St Brieuc (France) and the Devonport Services Fijian community, including Plymouth Albion’s Nat Saumi, represented Fiji and played in a knockout competition.

In the first semi-final Devonport Services beat St Brieuc 39-19, in a close game with often only a point in it. However, right at the end Services scored a couple of tries that made it look easier than it was. In the other semi-final DSRFC (Fiji community) beat Machynlleth RFC 24-0. In the Plate final a very close fought contest saw Machynlleth RFC beat the French (RC St Brieuc) 27-8.

The final began with a Haka from the Fijians and throughout the game their wives and children entertained the crowd with a selection of South Sea Island songs and noisy cheering. The Fijians put on an exciting display of exuberant rugby ending the afternoon by winning 36-19.

Rugby was the real winner, the Services ladies team laid on a barbecue and St Brieuc won the gastronomic competition by laying on a huge and delicious selection of local food and drink from Brittany. After the final game club chairman Chris Saxby presented the trophy to the winning captain Rab Seru.

Eastern Counties U20s, who totally dominated the first half, survived a nail-biting finish as Oxfordshire almost snatched victory with the last move of the RFU National Under-20 Shield Final at Coventry RFC’s Butts Park Arena.

With Counties down to 14 men, hooker Sam Bixby getting a yellow card in injury time, Oxfordshire launched a final assault, their forwards driving over the line by the posts. Referee Jonathan Healy then indicated the ball had been held up before blowing the final whistle.

It was close indeed and Counties knew they had been in a battle, with Oxfordshire providing their first real test in this competition after four fairly comfortable qualifying games. The 10-5 interval lead became 17-5 after 55 minutes as Counties punished Oxfordshire who had lost two men to the sin bin.

As Eastern Counties rang the changes, using all their replacements, Oxfordshire came back at them, setting up a

EastErn countiEs u20s liFt shiEld

really nerve-wracking finish. Several of the squad will be available next season and, having won Shield, will be looking forward to some tough and challenging matches as they step up to the Cup competition next season.

England’s Freddie Burns on the attack against the Barbarians

EastErn countiEs 17 – 12 oxFordshirE

10 11Touchline – J u n e / J u l y 2 01 3 J u n e / J u l y 2013 – Touchline

Walsall’s annual Colts tournament, the Fred Rowley Memorial Trophy, began in 2003. Since then six different clubs have lifted this valuable silverware. Ten years later, and the host club has managed to improve on their two previous final appearances and actually win the trophy. Walsall

secured their place in the final after wins over Sutton Coldfield and Lichfield. The current Walsall Colts team worked hard to gain a victory over a very strong Dudley Kingswinford team who had already secured the league championship.Yorkshire’s Central District Vets Tournament has

been part of the rugby landscape for a number of years, with alternating venues providing the more senior practitioners with an end-of-season festival to give the venerable ones a chance of formal competition and an opportunity to claim some bragging rights among their peers.

The first tournament was staged by Ilkley, who passed on the baton to Sandal and, though the following year failed to find a host club, Roundhegians stepped into the breach to get

the show back on the road. They repeated their hospitality last season, when six teams took part on a day marked by torrential downpours and Leeds Corinthians emerged victorious.

This season two late withdrawals depleted the field, but the four participants – among them a touring team from Leatherhead in Surrey – kept the tradition alive in fine style, with Ossett, Harrogate and ‘Hegians enjoying a top-class rugby day. Harrogate Veterans defeated Roundhegians Veterans 5-0 to win the event at Chelwood Drive.

Julia HuttonAs the countdown begins to the Women’s Rugby World Cup in France in August 2014, England Women embarked on their busiest ever summer of international rugby.

England play the reigning world champions New Zealand over a three-test series in New Zealand in July before heading to Denver to defend their Nations Cup title where they’ll take on Canada, the USA and South Africa in July and August.

England coaches Gary Street and Graham Smith picked their squads to include a very strong 26 to travel to New Zealand, where England play the Black Ferns on July 13 at Eden Park, at Waikato Stadium on July 16 and at the ECOlight Stadium on July 20.

Lichfield’s Sarah Hunter continues her captaincy, while England also welcome back 12 players from the England Sevens programme following the Rugby World Cup Sevens in June.

England head to New Zealand on the back of two consecutive series wins against the Black Ferns in 2011 and 2012 but have not played on their turf since 2005, or won

In winning the Cock-o-the-North Cup for the third time in succession, Lymm Senior Colts brought the curtain down on an unprecedented unbeaten season and capped three incredible years of Senior Colts Rugby at Lymm RFC.

Playing for a maximum of four trophies in each of the last three seasons (Raging Bull North West Colts A League; Raging Bull League Cup; Cheshire Cup; Cock-o-the-North Cup) they have won nine out of 12 and tied for two more, only to lose out on count back. They have had 71 fixtures, losing just three, drawing one and prevailing in the rest, scoring 2,147 points in the process while conceding just 675.

Lymm RFC President Simon Plumb said, “Whilst our Senior Colts have had individual successes, in Ross Harrison’s England caps at U18, U19 and U20, his elevation to the Sale Sharks squad and James Mitchell’s caps at U16, U17 and U18, the most impressive thing for me is that 14 members of these three Senior Colts squads have already played First XV Rugby for Lymm at National 3 Level. Many more have played senior rugby with other teams at Lymm and I’m sure that it won’t be long before many more are challenging for First XV places.”

Mini, Junior & Colts Chairman Andy

Leach added, “After our Junior Colts won the National U17 Cup in 2009, we decided to establish our Colts Academy to enhance the standard of coaching we could offer to these young men and to create a more joined-up engagement with our senior squad. With the Colts Academy coaching team expertly led by past First XV Captain Adam Fletcher, our achievements both in terms of Colts performances and the creation of a seamless passage to senior rugby have far exceeded my expectations.”

Coach Fletcher remarked, “This represents the efforts of three different squads competing across the competitive North of England Colts scene, each season taking on challenges from different quarters – and not one team playing the same opposition year in year out. This has presented many challenges which I am delighted to say every one of the players has met.”

hElp injury managEmEnt by taking partThe community rugby injury surveillance project (CRISP) is inviting community level 3-7 clubs to participate for season 2013/14. The aim of this RFU project is to discover more about the frequency, nature and causes of match injuries in the community game to help develop future injury management strategies.

Participating clubs are asked to submit information on their 1st XV match play injuries during the season together with some brief information about squad players. For more specific details on the participation requirement and benefits to your club, visit the Project webpages: http://go.bath.ac.uk/rfu-crisp

To nominate your club for participation or for more information, please contact: Dr Simon Roberts Tel: 01225 384531 Email: rfu-crisp@bath.ac.uk

England womEn hEad For nEw ZEaland and amErica

lymm colts truly cock oF thE north

Beccehamian Rugby Club in West Wickham, Kent are hoping they have sealed a world record for the most participants in a game of touch rugby.

With the current record set at 262 players, the Beccehamian team knew they had a tough target to achieve. And after five hours and 24 minutes of continuous play, 317 players, 25 marshals, six referees, eight adjudicators, four official witnesses and numerous parents and other club members had witnessed or played in the greatest game of touch ever.

In order to qualify for the world record, video and photographic evidence taken on the day has been supplied to the world record officials at Guinness, and once they have validated this, Beccehamian RFC hope to be the new world record holders!

The rules of play were simple: RFU touch rules stipulate that no more than 12 players (six per team) could be on the pitch at any one time, all players must play for at least 10 minutes and each player must touch

the ball at least once during their time on the pitch.With rolling subs coming on every 10 minutes, the

game began and with military-like logistics, players were registered, tagged, participating and cooling down after their 10 minutes of fame.

With so many people at the club present – Minis, Juniors, Ladies and Seniors – ‘Beccs’ took the opportunity to promote the day as an open day locally to the community, inviting people to come and watch the fun or take part in a “have a try” session.

Speaking about the event, Anthony Kempster, the main event coordinator said:

“The event has been a great success for the club as whole, bringing together all of the playing teams as well as many of the parents across age groups, as well as promoting the club to the wider community.

“Achieving the world record would cap a fantastic season for the club, where promotion and cup victories have already been achieved.”

walsall colts win rowlEy trophy – at last

grEyhound rFc racing ahEad

a game in New Zealand since 2001.Street said: “It is an exciting squad and

one I think who will relish the chance of playing the world champions in New Zealand, something we have not done in

eight years. This is a hugely important series. It will be the last time that we play them before the World Cup and also provides a massive mental challenge for our squad. Playing at large stadiums in front of

big, passionate crowds, as well as taking on the world champions, will provide me with an invaluable opportunity to assess where we are 12 months out from the World tournament.”

The Nations Cup squad will also be captained by Hunter who will lead a new-look developing England squad. There are eight players set to make their England debuts, including England U20s captain Megan Goddard and fellow U20s players Charlotte Keane, Leanne Riley, Abbie Scott and Amy Wilson-Hardy. Ten players are graduating from the RFU’s successful Divisional Programme.

England Assistant Coach Graham Smith will act as Head Coach for this tour with Simon Middleton, former Leeds Carnegie player and Defence and Skills coach, stepping in as Assistant Coach.

Street added: “The Nations Cup is a fantastic opportunity for some of our fringe or Elite Playing Squad members and will certainly help to assist our strength in depth and that is largely down to our player pathway working so well and the work of the RFU’s Divisional Talent Development Officers.”

harrogatE vEts still havE itTony Simpson

walsall colts 30 – 13 dudlEy kingswinFord colts

Greyhound RFC had an amazing unbeaten 2012/2013 season in North Midlands 5 west south. Their only disappointment was losing five points due to an administration error, as they would have finished on top as well.

Chairman Barry Morris said “We started the season struggling to get 15 players together, but finished with two teams. They have all stepped up this season and had some impressive wins along the way. The standard of rugby is remarkable for a small grass roots club.

“We are often classed as the other rugby club in Hereford, but have proved that we are capable of great things. This season has also seen the start of a minis section, and a women’s section, currently playing touch, but with numbers increasing we are hoping to

return to contact as well. Two of our former women players are currently playing for England, so our standard is really good.

“Based at Hereford City Sports Club, we have proudly supported Stonewall on our shirts all season with their slogan ‘some people are gay get over it’, as we believe that sport should not tolerate any prejudice or bullying.”

For more information visit: www.pitchero.com/clubs/greyhound

not FlaggingThere’s no doubt that you need to be fit to be an assistant referee. In Gloucestershire’s defeat of Kent at Cinderford in their successful battle to avoid relegation to Division 2 next season there was everything to play for.

As Lloyd Stapleton celebrates running in for the final try that put the match out of Kent’s reach, there was no doubting the score as the match official raced down the touchline with equally impressive speed.

Your club can host a course for aspiring or active match officials by contacting your Area Training Officer.

bEccEhamians within touching distancE oF world rEcord

camp hill stagE sam yarwood mEmorial dayCamp Hill are staging a Sam Yarwood Memorial Day on August 10th in memory of their former

winger who died in a canoeing accident in the Lake District two years ago. Sam, who played county rugby for North Midlands, had moved away from Birmingham and was playing for the Bournemouth club at the time of his death, having finished the 2010/11 season as their record try-scorer.

Camp Hill hope that the Memorial Day at their Haslucks Green Road headquarters will, in the spirit of Sam’s personality, be a fun and happy day, when Moseley Colts, for whom Sam also played, will play their Camp Hill counterparts at 1pm, followed by Camp Hill’s first XV playing an Invitational XV at 3.30pm.

It’s hoped that many of Sam’s former team-mates from Camp Hill and Bournemouth will play for the Invitation

XV. All proceeds will go to the Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association who tried extremely hard to save Sam’s life.

If you would like to donate simply visit Sam’s JustGiving Page at www.justgiving.com/remember38244/Sam-Yarwood

Paul Bolton

TouchlineEditorial input with pictures to: Touchline Editor, Patricia MowbrayEmail: patriciamowbray@rfu.com 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: gameinvestment@therfu.com 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 – J u n e / J u l y 2 01 3

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

All clubs are reminded of the regulatory requirement to ensure that all age grade players must be registered as youth players within 45 days of them joining the Club (RFU Regulation 15.15.1). Adding the player to the club membership list on Rugby First does NOT register them as a youth player, this has to be done on the Youth Registration System. Failure to hold a youth player registration may result in players being ineligible to play.

scots dragoon guards rEtain army sEvEns titlERoger ThompsonThe Royal Scots Dragoon Guards retained their Army Sevens title at Aldershot last month (May). The Germany champions from Fallingbostel put on a fine display of adventurous and disciplined sevens to defeat the 2nd Royal Welsh by 33-5.

The final score might suggest one-way traffic but in the early stages only fine energy-sapping defence kept the Welsh out. Skipper Lt Alasdair Maclaurin had his tank soldiers well prepared, fit and benefitting from previous tournaments on the Continent. Maybe their biggest asset was their alertness which saw them pouncing on surprising Welsh errors.

Marty Komaiyasa, who scored a hat-trick, ran the show from half back and was well supported by Isoa Matagi throughout six gruelling rounds. At the semi-final stage the two battalions of the Royal Welsh had met for the last time before they merge. Both have made wonderful contributions to Army rugby over the years and, together, are expected to come | forward strongly.

In the Women’s event the Adjutant General’s Corps and Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers fought a spirited final before the AGC edged it 24-17.

rEmindEr to clubs

Bridgnorth enjoyed double success at Telford’s Town Park by winning both the Shropshire Sevens and the Telford Invitational Sevens tournaments.

Bridgnorth clinched the Shropshire title by beating runners-up Market Drayton 20-7 in their final match. Bridgnorth’s second team took the Invitational event title by virtue of more tries scored after they suffered an early setback with defeat by Staffordshire visitors Rugeley.

The day, which also included a music and beer festival, was well supported by spectators and the local companies – Wiggins & Lockett Chartered Surveyors, P D Structures, Wrekin Sheet Metal, Respol, SSH Self Drive, KDH Insurance Brokers, The All Nations Inn, So Food, Turner Peachey & Bespoke Computing – who sponsored the event.

Tournament organiser Anthony Wiggins said: “I’m delighted at how well the day went. The volunteer team really pulled together to create an excellent event that will now travel countywide to other Shropshire clubs in future years. The standard of rugby in Shropshire is superb and players often move between teams so this event is an opportunity for them all to see each other again and catch up in a fun environment at the end of the season.”

bridgnorth sEvEns doublEPaul Bolton