Social media channel competition

The recently launched @RFU social media channel dedicated to the community game, allowed followers to enter a competition to win a coaching session for their team, and the Midlands side were the first winning club.

Market Harborough Chair Jonathan Stamp said: “This is a fantastic initiative from England Rugby in support of the grassroots game. Eddie Jones’ insight and enthusiasm was infectious for all involved, from the seniors, to our up and coming juniors, through to the women and girls who all play and love this great sport of rugby.

“We really appreciated Eddie taking the time out of his busy schedule and we hope he enjoyed meeting all the players and members who came out to meet him. We believe we have one of the best junior community rugby clubs in Leicestershire and were thrilled to be able to share a training session with one of the best!”

Great set up says Eddie

Eddie Jones said: “We had a lot of fun at Market Harborough. They’ve got a great set up, it’s a real community hub and you could see the passion everyone has for the game. To have such strong numbers turning up at this stage of the season was outstanding.

“Grassroots rugby is where we all started and where we all fell in love with the game, whether as a player, a coach or a match official.

“As a coach, it’s always rewarding to see the difference a little bit of advice can make to player. It’s all about helping players, at whatever level they play at, to develop their game and enjoy their rugby even more.”

Keen to host more sessions

After such a strong response to the competition, with over 900 entries from across the grassroots rugby community, Jones is keen to host similar sessions for winners from different areas of the country next season, saying: “It’s been a tough couple of years for grassroots rugby during the pandemic and it’s really important to support the community game as it continues to rebuild.”