EDF Energy National Schools Rugby Programme

 
Tens of thousands of children are getting their first ever taste of rugby thanks to the EDF Energy National Schools Rugby Programme.
 
Youngsters from schools across the country are picking up a rugby ball and learning to play the game as part of one of the most comprehensive grassroots rugby programmes in the world.
 
Since its launch in January 2007, more than 50,000 children have already been introduced to the game.
 
Every Guinness Premiership club and two National League One sides are involved, coaching children, training teachers and holding regional tag rugby festivals. By July 2007, 70,000 children will have been involved.
 
Louise Poole, EDF Energy’s Head of Brand, said: “The programme is getting a new generation of youngsters into rugby in a fun and safe way which is fantastic.
 
“Tens of thousands of children are involved, which is great news for the future of rugby at the grassroots level, not only for schools rugby and local clubs but for helping to produce the next generation of fans and professional players. Clubs have been brilliant at engaging with children and giving teachers the confidence and skill to coach.”
 
The programme is for boys and girls aged 8-10 year olds. Professional community coaches from the clubs work with schools for six weeks. EDF Energy supplies equipment, including tag belts and balls, to ensure schools can carry on playing the sport for years to come.
 
England’s Mike Tindall and Mathew Tait are among the players who have been involved.
 
 The Government has also recognised the achievements of the programme, with the National Sports Foundation awarding a grant of almost £200,000 in 2007 and providing further funding in 2008, so even more children and schools can benefit.
 
In all, more than 112,000 children will be introduced to the sport through the three-year programme.
 
Tag rugby is a non-contact version of the sport that teaches the skills necessary to go on and play rugby union.
 
Top players visit schools and help with coaching, while 40 schools had the chance to play in tag demonstration games at the EDF Energy Cup semi-finals and final at the Millennium Stadium and Twickenham Stadium this year and last.
 
EDF Energy became Premier Rugby’s Community Partner in January 2007 to support the grassroots of the game, alongside the energy company’s sponsorship of the EDF Energy Cup, EDF Energy National Trophy, EDF Energy Intermediate Cup, EDF Energy Senior Vase and EDF Energy Junior Vase.