200 Scouts give rugby a try at T1 Rugby Festival in Eastbourne
To celebrate our new partnership with England Rugby (RFU), 200 Scouts tried rugby at our launch event at Eastbourne Rugby Club. Joined by Poppy Cleall, England International, young people had lots of fun as they experienced the benefits of rugby.
On Saturday 28 September 2024, 200 enthusiastic Scouts from Eastbourne District Scouts visited Eastbourne Rugby Club for a day of rugby activities – the first of many T1 (non-contact) rugby festivals across the UK as part of our exciting new partnership with England Rugby (RFU).
As part of the event, Scouts tried our co-designed rugby activities and took part in a mini tournament at the end of the session. These fun activities helped them work towards their Scouts Physical Recreation Activity Badge, which is sponsored by England Rugby (RFU).
Scouts and England Rugby share a natural alignment of values, both dedicated to bringing people together, improving health and wellbeing, and teaching young people crucial life skills.
I’m so pleased that Scouts and Rugby Football Union are working so closely together. They have so many shared values, and inspire teamwork, leadership, physical and mental wellbeing. Both Scouts and rugby help young people learn to think for themselves, build trust in each other and develop a fantastic positive attitude. As a Scout and rugby player myself, I know how good both of these can be for you. Well done and thank you to everyone who’s helping provide these opportunities, and getting our young people into sport.
Ed Stafford, Scouts Ambassador
A huge success
As they stepped onto the pitch, 90% of the Scouts were about to experience the powerful benefits of rugby for the first time. As well as the physical benefits and being outdoors, the young people learned many other skills, including teamwork, respect, enjoyment and discipline.
T1 (non-contact) rugby is ‘a game for everyone, played by anyone', emphasising fun, fitness and inclusion. There was so much enthusiasm and positive energy as the activities were underway, thanks to the brilliant support of volunteers.
A great day was had by all and each Scout went home with a medal from Eastbourne Rugby Club. 15 Scouts enjoyed the experience so much that they signed up to the club afterwards, having never been involved before.
I hadn’t played rugby before. Today was my first time playing. I really enjoyed it and would definitely like to play again.
Angel, 11th Eastbourne Scout Group
Poppy Cleall kicking off the partnership
Scouts were joined by Poppy Cleall, England International, who did an amazing job encouraging the young people and supporting the launch of the partnership. Poppy was a Scout when she was younger and recognises the value of both Scouts and rugby.
The values and skills young people learn as a Scout – teamwork, leadership, and resilience – are the same ones that have been essential throughout my rugby career. This initiative is a fantastic opportunity to introduce more young people to the game of rugby, allowing them to develop important life skills while having fun and staying active. I look forward to seeing the next generation of rugby players and community leaders emerge through this partnership.
Poppy Cleall, England International
How you can get involved
This fantastic event in Eastbourne is only the beginning of our exciting programme with The RFU. As part of our partnership, you can run your own T1 Rugby festival for your District with your local clubs. It’s incredibly easy to run your own event!
With the Women’s Rugby World Cup heading to England next year, it's the perfect time to get involved in rugby.
For more information on how you can get stuck in, visit our England Rugby (RFU) supporter page.