Firstly, congratulations to all the incredible individuals shortlisted tonight. Your achievements and commitment to the HITZ programme are truly inspiring, and everyone involved should take immense pride in the difference they’ve made in their own life or the lives of others.
Over the past 16 years, we’ve seen firsthand how rugby can transform lives through HITZ. The programme has empowered learners to move forward in a positive direction, and over 24,000 participants have gained valuable work experience, qualifications and life skills that have set them on the path to a brighter future.
What started on a field in Hackney in 2008 has grown into something remarkable. The succes of HITZ is undeniable, with an impressive 83% of participants progressing into education, employment, or training immediately after their time with us, and an incredible 90% reporting improved physical and mental wellbeing. Through the core values of rugby - teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline, and sportsmanship - HITZ gives young people the tools to tackle life, going far beyond the classroom or rugby pitch.
At Premiership Rugby, we believe that every young person, regardless of background or ability, deserves opportunities to fulfil their potential. Every participant inspires us, and each one becomes part of the ‘HITZ Family’.
This family is brought to life by the dedication of our clubs, foundations, coaches, and volunteers, who create a supportive, nurturing environment that is unlike anything found in school. Their 1-2-1 support, mentoring, and safe spaces allow young people to thrive, building not only new skills and qualifications but also confidence, self-esteem, and belief in their own abilities.
On behalf of the Premiership Rugby team, I want to say a huge thank you to our clubs and foundations for their dedication, compassion, and tireless work on HITZ as we prepare for an exciting next chapter which will see the legacy of the programme become embedded locally. Each club and foundation will take the programme deeper into their communities, tailoring programme delivery to meet the unique needs of participants and the education and societal issues they face in
their local areas. We are confident that our clubs and foundations will uphold the legacy and values of HITZ as they take it forward.
I would like to take this opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to our valued partners over the last 16 years - CVC, East Head Impact, Central YMCA, Wooden Spoon, Comic Relief, Land Rover, Barclays, the London Mayor’s Office, the Equalities and Human Rights Commission, SCL Education Group, and Creative Sport and Leisure - whose vital support has been instrumental in the success of HITZ over the years. In addition, a big thank you to all other organisations who have supported through referrals, services, work experience opportunities and best practice sharing.
Tonight is a celebration on many levels. A celebration of the power of sport to change lives and of HITZ and all it has achieved. More importantly, it is a celebration of our 12 outstanding nominees and their courageous, moving stories.
Let’s celebrate together the power of rugby, community, and transformation.
Enjoy the evening!
Laylla Stanley Strategic Lead – Social Impact and D&I at Premiership Rugby
report an improvement in their personal, employability and life skills
have expressed improvements in their physical and mental wellbeing
2,000 87% 90%
76%
of young people have completed the programme
AROUND
young people become part of the HITZ family across England every year
NUMBERS THE
24,000 83% 77% learners have engaged since HITZ launched in 2008 MORE THAN have positively progressed to further education, employment or training achieved their academic qualification
SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD
As this year marks the final HITZ Awards, we recognise the unsung heroes of HITZ who have either come through the programme and are now thriving, or who have dedicated years of service to enhance the lives of young people in their local communities.
These are people who haven’t been decorated with a HITZ Award before, so tonight will receive a ‘Special Recognition Award’ and were nominated by staff from their Club and Premiership Rugby.
Past HITZ learners who have achieved incredible things since finishing HITZ and deserve to be recognised as role models for the programme:
Igor, past HITZ learner, The Harlequins Foundation
Eve, past HITZ learner, Sale Sharks Foundation
Members of staff who started their journey with HITZ at the very beginning, and are now thriving in their leadership positions:
Matt Shillabeer, Head of Programmes, The Harlequins Foundation
Sam Swift, CEO, Leicester Tigers Foundation
Jordan Letts, Head of Foundation, Northampton Saints Foundation
HITZ Tutors and Officers, past and present, who have dedicated several years of service to the programme and have changed the lives of many:
Ben Woolfson, past HITZ Tutor, Bristol Bears Community Foundation
Matt Russell, past HITZ Officer, Gloucester Rugby Charitable Foundation
Mike Hoult, past HITZ Tutor, Bath & Gloucester Rugby Foundation
Danielle Cook, past HITZ Tutor, Leicester Tigers, Wasps & Northampton Saints Foundation
Dave Shotton, Social Inclusion Manager, Newcastle Rugby Foundation
Craig Phillips, Employability Lead, Northampton Saints Foundation
Philippa Birchall, HITZ Education Coordinator, Sale Sharks Foundation
A huge thanks to all our judges this year for their time and input in creating the HITZ Awards 2024 shortlist.
This year’s judging panel included:
YOUNG ACHIEVER & PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AWARDS JUDGES
Connor Wiltshire
Paul Glanville
Jane Howard
Lauren O’Neill
Hitesh Patel
Gary Laybourne
Mark Hill
Simon Massie-Taylor
Apprentice & past HITZ learner, Molson Group
Corporate Social Responsibility Lead, Molson Group
Vice President Philanthropy, CVC
Head of Regional Development, Movement to Work
Executive Director, Sport for Development Coalition
Chief Executive Officer, Coach Core Foundation
Head of Operations and Philanthropy, East Head Impact
Chief Executive Officer, Premiership Rugby
ACADEMIC ACHIEVER & CHAMPION AWARDS JUDGES
Mitch Bailey
Ryan Palmer
Heather Lewis
Will Stone
Gavin James
Mark Welsh
Rob Calder
Phil Winstanley
Grounds person and past HITZ learner, Leicester Tigers
Chief Executive, Central YMCA
Sport Lead, Mental Health Foundation
Head of Social Impact & Government Strategy, NFL
United Action Manager, Youth Sport Trust
Head of Education and Employability, EFL in the Community
Chief Growth Officer, Premiership Rugby
Rugby Director, Premiership Rugby
Being a long-time partner of the HITZ programme has been incredibly rewarding. It’s humbling to witness the profound impact it has on young people’s lives. The dedication of the HITZ teams, Premiership Club Foundation staff, and volunteers truly transform these young individuals’ futures. Their journeys are nothing short of inspiring, marked by immense challenges, hardships, and remarkable courage. Without HITZ and the nurturing environment it provides, many of these lives would be on a very different path.
Jane Howard Vice President Philanthropy, CVC
The HITZ Physical Activity Award recognises a young person for their progress and development towards leading a more active and healthier lifestyle – both on the HITZ programme and in their personal lives. The award rewards progress in health goals, physical fitness, and/or sports coaching.
MYA
Mya struggled in school, feeling isolated and unable to express her emotions which often led to outbursts, her severe anxiety impacted her attendance and engagement. Yet despite these challenges, she achieved good GCSE grades.
Mya joined the HITZ programme at the Harlequins Foundation, after positive experiences at Project Rugby sessions at school developed her passion for rugby which has now become a key outlet for her confidence and personal growth.
In the past Mya avoided conversation and eye contact, but HITZ provided a supportive environment where she could thrive. Through the mentoring plan the HITZ team put in place with one of the Harlequins
Women’s squad members, Mya’s communication skills and confidence improved. She also gained coaching experience by shadowing the player, led group sessions, and adapted drills for players which highlighted her development.
Impressing HITZ staff with her work ethic and leadership skills, Mya’s transformation saw her deliver coaching sessions, speaking publicly, and culminated in the offer of a paid coaching role at the Harlequins Foundation whilst at the same time adding to her qualifications in sports coaching and physical education. Her journey from struggling student to confident rugby coach is inspiring. Mya aims to be the positive role model for others like the Harlequins Women’s squad were for her.
Charlie
Charlie joined the HITZ programme while completing a Level 2 Sports Coaching qualification at Newcastle College, with the goal to lead a healthier lifestyle. Weighing over 160kg severely impacted his confidence leading to Charlie avoiding sports despite loving football. The imprisonment of a family member caused emotional turmoil, leading to bullying and further isolation, which triggered eating for comfort which further impacted Charlie’s physical and mental health.
Joining HITZ and gaining support was the catalyst for Charlie to lose over 30kg and pursue a longterm health and fitness plan and a career in sports coaching. His commitment to improving his
KANE
Kane’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and personal growth. Joining in December 2023 marked a turning point in his life, after facing severe anxiety and personal challenges. An enthusiastic rugby fan, he had struggled with his weight, and the impact of Dyspraxia, a condition that affected his coordination and social interactions, with his mother’s diagnosis of breast cancer, further intensifying Kane’s struggles.
HITZ at Northampton Saints Foundation provided a safe environment where he regained confidence, improved his health, and pursued his passions in rugby and boxing. Physical activity became a cornerstone of his development, helping to overcome anxiety and boost his self-esteem. Kane began to actively engage in coaching, mentoring younger participants, and supporting peers, demonstrating natural leadership qualities. He successfully completed
physical health worked in tandem with developing his coaching skills and Charlie regularly requested feedback and proactively secured coaching opportunities at Newcastle Rugby Foundation.
His newfound confidence improved both his classroom performance and coaching abilities, earning respect from peers. Now Charlie is progressing to a Level 3 Sports Coaching course, has secured a shift leader position in the hospitality industry, and continues to pursue coaching independently of HITZ. By volunteering at HITZ sessions and match days as a member of the CAST, Charlie uses his experiences to help other participants avoid similar struggles inspired to bring positive changes in his role as a coach.
Level 1 Math and English qualifications and is now pursuing Level 2 in Health and Social Care, aspiring to be a role model for other young people who struggle with their mental health and confidence. Kane is determined to follow in the footsteps of others who have gone from HITZ learner to mentor to give back to the programme that supported him, helping others ‘like him’ along the way.
Today Kane’s commitment to sport continues, with rugby being his first passion as he regularly makes playing appearances for his local team. He also continues to develop his boxing abilities at Rough and Ready gym who see potential in him for an amateur boxing career. Through HITZ, Kane has not only improved personally but has become an inspiration to others, embodying the spirit of perseverance and community support.
The Academic Achiever Award is about the journey a HITZ student has taken in their academic development. It recognises the challenges they faced initially in education and just how far they have come. These are stories of how hard work and perseverance have taken them to a place where they see learning as a positive experience.
KATIE
Katie joined the Newcastle HITZ programme in September 2023, having left school without any GCSEs after struggling with poor attendance and disruptive behaviour. Outbursts of aggression and conflict with peers affected her achievements at school, her relationships at home and even saw her leave the girls rugby team she helped set up. All of this compounded her loneliness, however Katie found hope through HITZ, which connected her passion for rugby with personal development.
Despite her initial negative and self-destructive behaviour at HITZ with support from tutors, Katie learned to manage her emotions and realised she was not alone in her struggles. This shift allowed her to set goals and envision a positive future. She embraced opportunities like volunteering with the Newcastle Falcons CAST match day team and attended employability sessions, which
bolstered her confidence and opened new career paths. Katie also rekindled her love for rugby with mentoring from female coaches at Falcons, returning to her local club and improving her game.
By the end of the year, Katie demonstrated remarkable growth academically, achieving 100% attendance and progressing to her Level 2 Sport qualification alongside volunteering. She developed as a role model after taking the initiative to rebuild relationships and helping others facing similar challenges. Now aspiring to become a rugby coach, Katie’s journey reflects her personal transformation into a confident considered leader, eager to inspire others through her experiences.
TIANNA
Tianna’s journey at HITZ demonstrates her resilience and growth as she overcame significant academic and personal challenges. Initially referred by her twin sister in September 2023, Tianna was hesitant due to anxiety but soon found comfort in the supportive learning environment. Having faced a difficult upbringing, including the loss of her father and the absence of her mother due to poor health, Tianna lived with her paternal grandmother who played a pivotal role in her life.
In school, Tianna’s educational experience was marred by a lack of understanding and support for her mental health struggles. As her attendance declined, and panic attacks worsened, bespoke individual support enabled her to pass her GCSE Math.
HITZ became a turning point for Tianna, offering a flexible structure with home and classroom learning, tailored support, pastoral care, and assistance with assessments for ADHD and autism spectrum disorder. Consequently, she demonstrated remarkable dedication to her education with a cheerful outlook, maintaining attendance and completing the programme despite setbacks. Discovering her passions alongside being inspired and motivated by her experiences with others, Tianna now feels confident enough to attend mainstream college to proceed to Level 2 Sport and Active Leisure. With her sights set on a positive future, Tianna aspires to pursue a career as a PE teacher.
DANIEL
Daniel, a refugee from Sudan, joined the HITZ programme in October 2023 with limited English and a poor attitude towards learning. Daniel had a challenging educational background, having dropped out of primary school in Sudan, where schooling was not seen as a priority, and he did not attend secondary school. Due to language barriers and prior negative experiences in education, Daniel struggled to engage in traditional learning environments after moving to Manchester in 2014.
HITZ provided him with tailored support, including small group and one-on-one tutoring, which helped Daniel overcome his language challenges. Initially, he resisted completing assignments, particularly in math, but with individual attention, he made significant progress and as the
programme progressed, Daniel’s perception and attitudes shifted. He began to see education in a new light, realising its importance to help secure a job. This was reflected in his attendance improving from 30% before Christmas to 85% by the end of the academic year.
This transformation produced a newfound motivation and confidence. Daniel successfully completed Level 2 Employability, Functional Skills in Math, and English, and gained valuable work experience at a food bank and charity shop for SUEZ recycling and recovery UK, improving his communication and practical skills. Daniel’s positive outlook on education now sees him plan to pursue a Level 2 Electrician course to become self-employed, highlighting his determination and growth.
The HITZ Champion Award recognises an individual who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to support HITZ participants to overcome their personal barriers. Whether a member of the HITZ team or the local community, their support ranges from helping young people build a better future to teaching important employability, life, social or sporting skills to increase confidence and future prospects.
MOLSON GROUP AND SUEZ
Molson Group and SUEZ recycling and recovery UK are shortlisted in a joint nomination from Bristol Bears Community Foundation and the Harlequins Foundation due to their unique collaboration which supports HITZ participants across the country.
The successful collaboration began with Molson Group’s support of the Bristol Bears. Their central team - led by Paul, Anna, and Harriet - championed the positive impact of the HITZ programme to their network of clients, including SUEZ recycling and recovery UK. Led by Jack, SUEZ embraced the opportunity to add social value through its work with The Harlequins Foundation. The result - new workplace opportunities benefiting over 30 HITZ learners across multiple locations.
By developing the employability of young people, these two organisations have helped HITZ students gain career confidence which has opened doors to opportunities in a variety of roles within the construction, demolition and waste management industries. Offering real-world work experience is often vital to positive outcomes on HITZ. The businesses provide students with invaluable opportunities to explore what a day-to-day job would look like, along with building work readiness and self-confidence as learners gain first hand insight into diverse careers from plant operations to HR.
However, their support goes beyond work placements, with support given in volunteering, personal guidance and mentorship which often continues after learners complete the programme. Interview opportunities have led to permanent employment for participants within the two businesses, including the likes of Igor who is employed by Molson Group to work on-site with SUEZ at their London hub. Igor’s apprenticeship, Level 3 Land Based Service Engineering with Bircham Netwon College, is a prime example of the power of the two businesses collaborating on social value to achieve the highest impact.
Molson Group conduct mock interviews to boost the learners’ job readiness and provide financial support for essential resources like laptops and PPE. Their dedicated staff, including previous HITZ participants, Dawda, Connor and Louis, play a key role in mentoring by building strong relationships with HITZ participants each year. This was reflected in them being awarded HITZ Ambassador status earlier this year.
These values-driven businesses integrate social responsibility fully into their operations and their commitment to nurturing young HITZ talent is testament to the lasting impact they aspire to have on their communities.
Kev is more than just an exceptional college teacher, he consistently goes beyond his duties to support, inspire, and guide students on the HITZ programme, led by the Newcastle Rugby Foundation and hosted at Newcastle College. With experience working in challenging environments, Kev consistently remains calm and patient, especially with HITZ participants who struggle with anger or physical outbursts. His passion for sport has seen him set up extracurricular activities like a football team to increase socialisation for students, often sacrificing his personal time. Kev also acts as mentor, providing a support network for students that keeps attendance levels high at HITZ so they can achieve success. He connects them to relevant external support services if needed and is
Kev DOMINIC
Dominic is a dedicated volunteer on the Northampton Saints Foundation HITZ programme, and an inspiring role model for young people through his inclusive and engaging physical activity sessions. His love of exercise came via combat sports beginning with kickboxing and transitioning to boxing, where he achieved significant success. He uses his personal experiences to motivate HITZ learners, sharing his setbacks and triumphs to encourage resilience and demonstrate the rewards that come from determination.
His commitment to breaking down barriers to exercise is evident through his offer of free gym access to HITZ participants who cannot afford it, ensuring that everyone benefits from regular physical activity. This has been transformative for
tenacious in ensuring all his students are given the best opportunity to achieve academically.
It is Kev’s personalised approach that makes him stand out, identifying individual student struggles and needs, such as helping with emergency accommodation, physical wellbeing or dealing with mental health crises. He is known for his dedication, often working far beyond his college teaching hours to remain accessible to students so they never feel alone. He advocates for their progression into education, fighting for opportunities when others may not see their potential. Kev’s work leaves lasting impressions on all his students, motivating them to gain qualifications, pursue careers and believe in themselves.
numerous students, helping them adopt healthy habits that build confidence and attend an environment where they create new friendships. Testament to his impact is that many continue to attend his gym regularly after leaving HITZ due to the supportive community he provides and the positive personal growth they experience.
Dominic is generous with his time, using his passion and dedication to proactively participate in additional events, mentor students, and provide motivational talks. He regularly helps students overcome challenges such as language barriers and helps steer them towards a brighter future. The impact Dominic has had is profound, playing an integral role in HITZ students’ development with his ability to inspire.
The HITZ Young Achiever Award recognises and rewards young people who, by overcoming a range of challenges, have worked the hardest to progress on their journeys back to education, training or employment. They have persevered, despite setbacks; grown personally and socially, despite initially lacking confidence; and/or made new friends despite lacking personal and social skills. With the support and help of the HITZ programme, they have forged a more positive future for themselves.
GILBERT
Gilbert, originally from Ghana, arrived in England two years ago and struggling with the language barrier meant he left school without qualifications. Adjusting to life in the UK, particularly in school where his limited English made learning difficult, left him feeling shy and frustrated.
The HITZ programme, gradually built his confidence via the smaller group settings and one-on-one support. His enthusiasm and cheerful outlook shone as he embraced every opportunity, including leading a workshop at the Bears’ Celebration of Sport event. Gilbert improved his English and Math skills, with near perfect attendance and a strong commitment to personal growth and with this his
career focus shifted from football to exploring new options. With guidance from HITZ tutors, he is now attending mainstream college whilst considering his future career in the army, construction industry or as an electrician. Gilbert excelled in workshops and recruitment days, leading a carpentry workshop and excelling in an army recruitment task.
Now, Gilbert is studying Level 1 Construction Multi Trades with a clearer plan for his future. His new found confidence has opened doors to new industries and he is vocal about how the programme’s support has shaped his career path.
RONIN
Ronin’s story is one of resilience and personal growth, overcoming significant physical and developmental challenges through support and perseverance. Born with a rare genetic syndrome affecting his limbs and eyes, alongside autism, sensory processing disorder, and hypermobility, Ronin faced scepticism from doctors and educators about reaching key milestones. Despite early struggles with communication, emotional regulation, and social integration, Ronin has surpassed expectations thanks to the HITZ team at Chiefs who recognised his potential.
Initially withdrawn and isolated, Ronin gradually opened up, forming friendships, and excelling in academic and physical activities at HITZ. With
KYRON
Kyron joined HITZ in September 2023, after struggling with various educational settings due to childhood trauma, mental health challenges, and bullying. Adopted at a young age after a period in foster care, he had difficulty engaging in school, leading to frustration, angry outbursts, and eventually disengagement. Despite these challenges, Kyron aspired to complete Maths and English qualifications and wanted to support other adopted children through school after finding it so hard himself.
With support from the team at Sale Sharks Foundation, Kyron rebuilt his self-esteem and developed his motivation and determination to succeed. HITZ mentors helped him embrace opportunities, like work experience at Sale West Community Food Bank and a placement at Salford Community Stadium,
encouragement from the team and his family, Ronin grew in confidence, tackling challenging goals in Maths and English, and smashing his daily targets. The programme’s supportive environment allowed him to thrive, particularly through activities like delivering food to the elderly, which bolstered his independence and social skills.
Ronin’s father’s decision to move him to HITZ proved transformative, allowing him to build confidence, explore different roles, and pursue ambitions such as becoming a standup comedian. Today, he continues to push boundaries. Ronin’s journey is a testament to the power of support, community, and self-belief in overcoming adversity.
developing his leadership skills and improving his communication skills. Kyron also accessed 1-1 mentoring, improving his mental health, resilience, and trust in adults.
Kyron’s attendance, confidence, and engagement significantly improved, leading to the completion of Level 2 Employability qualifications, Functional Skills in Maths, and GCSE English. He now works two jobs including a role in hospitality at the Salford Community Stadium following his impressive spell on work experience through HITZ and plans to use his lived experience to help other adopted children facing similar challenges. The transformation of Kyron into a confident, motivated individual highlights the power of HITZ in helping participants overcome past trauma to achieve personal and professional success.
