Premiership Rugby Community Awards 2023 Nominees

INTRODUCTION

Today, we are honoured to be surrounded by a collection of incredible young people, mentors, coaches and volunteers who have changed their lives or the lives of others for the better.

Life is tough for many, so it is imperative that we support young people to take steps to improve their chances in life. They need opportunities and support to achieve academic qualifications, gain employment and live healthy lives. We believe whole heartedly that all young people, no matter their background or ability, should have equal access to sporting opportunities which help them fulfil their potential.

Our community programmes, and those of our clubs, club foundations with the invaluable support from our partners, help circa 250,000 young people annually engage with the game we love. In doing so rugby has helped many of them to turn their lives around and create positive futures.

Wayne Morris Community and CSR Director, Premiership Rugby

Our partners Gallagher, CVC, East Head Impact, Defender and Central YMCA show commitment, compassion and community spirit. Together with our club teams, this enables us to deliver increased participation opportunities, inspirational education opportunities frequently in an alternative environment to mainstream schools, life skills for independent living, improved mental and physical health and essential coaching to secure apprenticeships or employment.

Why does it work? Because all of our programmes use rugby’s core values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship. With this formula, rugby has the power to change lives.

We continue to work diligently to gain a deeper understanding of the young people we engage with and what is important to them. This approach has proven invaluable when building confidence, trust and engagement. Staff treat all our participants with respect and with positive role models, our young people become equipped to find their next steps and future career paths.

This afternoon, you will see and hear inspiring, courageous and emotive stories which highlights the impact of Premiership Rugby, its clubs and foundations. They demonstrate how our community programmes are making an invaluable contribution to addressing some of the biggest social challenges.

Going into next season we are resolute in our responsibility to use the power of professional rugby to help communities deliver sustainable change. Change not only for individuals but change which tackles inequality and protects communities. We ask you to support us on this journey to provide better outcomes for young people.

Mark Pawsey MP

MP for Rugby and Bulkington

Supporting young individuals and improving not only their future, but the future of the communities in which they live is paramount. With initiatives like those of Premiership Rugby we can reach out to young people from all walks of life who need support to get on the right path.

It is incredibly humbling to hear where the shortlisted nominees have come from, personal challenges they have overcome and the positive futures they have now built through hard work and determination. Those who have supported our young people are to be applauded, they demonstrate a strength in kindness and giving.

I send all of those involved with Premiership Rugby’s community programmes heart-felt thanks for your commitment to bettering the futures of our younger generation, and to all the nominees be hugely

KEY PROGRAMME STATS

It is our mission to use the power of professional rugby to deliver sustainable change that strengthens communities, tackles inequalities and protects the environment within our game and wider society.

• More than 84,000 participants to date

• More than 30% female

• 60% from low-socio economic groups or ethnically diverse background

• More than 20% have a disability

• Assisted formation of 22 new Mixed Ability Teams nationwide since inception

• More than 150 grassroots clubs benefited from new players

• 420 teams have attended the festivals this season

• More than 120,000 participants to date

• Over 21,000 learners have engaged since HITZ launched in 2008

• Around 2,000 young people become part of the HITZ family every year

• 84% of participants have improved functional maths and English

• Over 90% positively progress to further education, employment or training

• Over 80% report an improvement in their personal, employability and life skills

• Over 80% of HITZ participants express improvements in physical and mental wellbeing

CHAMPIONS

• Delivered programmes to over 35,000 children in more than 1,000 classrooms

• Provided training for over 1,250 teachers

• 3,918 teachers have registered for our teaching resources (collectively they teach over 100,000 young people each year).

The Rugby Ambassador Award rewards a participant who has excelled in any programme which introduces rugby to new audiences. They may have overcome physical, cultural or social barriers to become a real embodiment of the values of rugby.

We are fully committed to supporting the community programmes at Premiership Rugby having seen the positive impact they make over the years on both individual lives and the lives of those in the communities in which they live. Rugby, like any sport, provides an invaluable platform to encourage self-belief, teamwork and instil confidence in young people. The personal and life skills that are learnt through supporting each other and working as part of a team are life changing. Each of the individuals shortlisted for these awards deserves recognition for their hard work, achievements and outstanding personal growth.

Charles Scott, Chief Financial Officer at Gallagher

Despite being born deaf and suffering left-sided hemiplegia, Sam has thrown himself into the community programmes at Saracens. Here he has developed essential life skills, improving his communication and resilience, and emerging as a leader and role model to others.

A participant of the Saracens Foundation disability rugby community programme, Sam is an exemplary player when it comes to displaying the values of rugby which he shares and passes on to younger players at the club.

His commitment and hard work secured him a role as a staff member at the the Foundations SEN holiday camps where he was able to shine, helping other disabled rugby players reap the benefits of playing a team sport. Actively raising awareness for the deaf community, and Sam is now assistant coach of the new Saracens Foundation junior disability programme. Here he continues to demonstrate teamwork, respect and sportsmanship instilling these values in all those he teaches. All this whilst progressing his own game, playing full contact rugby at Cobham RFC.

Sam Perry from Saracens Foundation said; “Sam’s parents never thought it possible for him to play rugby due to his conciliar implants but his achievements really demonstrate Sam wasn’t prepared to let his disability be a barrier. He should be really proud of himself, with this approach to life he will go far”.

Saracens Sam Dunstan

Morgan found it difficult to participate in sport throughout school life due to a lack of confidence associated with Down Syndrome and learning disabilities. After being introduced to Bath Rugby Foundation via the Hi5 programme, which introduces SEN participants to physical activity, Morgan received the encouragement and support needed to thrive.

Fast forward to last year and after joining the Project Rugby community programme as part of his Bath College life skills course, Morgan’s journey accelerated going from quiet, passive and shy to feeling comfortable, confident and included. Now a regular at the Walcot Warriors Mixed Ability Rugby Team, Morgan flourished on and off the pitch. He went from avoiding being touched to being lifted in line outs and feels secure enough to travel independently to fixtures and to college.

Credit to his commitment representing Walcot Warriors was winning the Most Improved Player of the Season accolade out of 40 other teammates. Now socially aware and reassured by friendships he’s formed through playing Morgan is happy, strikes up conversations and is the first to congratulate his teammates.

Adam came to the Foundation in 2020 as part of the Sale Sharks Armed Forces programme having been referred by Walking with the Wounded following a traumatic brain injury suffered during his time in the military.

A lack of confidence and self-esteem subsided the more he engaged in rugby, and he soon embedded himself as a crucial member of the Wheelchair Rugby team. His ability stood out as did his commitment with him going over and above to support others to participate too.

This has not only had a positive impact on his life, it is making a huge difference to the lives of those he helps, like 93-year-old Fred who he picks up and brings with him every week, and Chris who is living with early onset Dementia who benefits from Adam’s selfless support throughout sessions. Adam has excelled in this environment and his positivity has seen him stand out as a leader among peers. The turnaround in Adam’s physical and mental health has led to him feeling ready to proactively reach out to other armed forces provisions in the area and he has secured employment in a step to financial independence.

Morgan Lidster

Bath Rugby Sale Sharks

Adam Nesbitt

The Outstanding Achiever of the Year Award is designed to reward a participant who has excelled in any education, health or social inclusion programme, bringing to life the potential of the game to change lives off the field.

What we have witnessed through the judging process for these awards is courage, bravery and incredible stories that show even against all odds rugby does have the power to change lives. Our involvement is an honor, and we are delighted to support the younger generation and those that are guiding them to change their lives for the better, increasing independence and setting them up for a brighter future.

Mark Hill, Head of Philanthropy and Operations, East Head Impact

Arriving at Bath Rugby Foundation’s Alternative Learning Hub (ALH) living up to his label of being disruptive and naughty, Charlie struggled to communicate with adults without aggression and confrontation.

School had been tough for Charlie coping with ADHD, he was distracted and gave up on education. His frustrations at being misunderstood led to fighting, climbing on roofs and disengagement with adults around him. After coaches at ALH took time to help Charlie convey his feelings, and recognise him as an intelligent young man with a passion for cooking and a strong work ethic, he started to shine. Charlie began to believe in himself, discuss solutions to issues and started to recognise that confrontation was holding back his potential.

His attention and focus has developed and with this his confidence. Charlie displayed a love of cooking and his desire to step into a professional kitchen was achieved when he secured work experience at local Michelin star restaurant The Olive Tree. The owner was so impressed by his hard work, ambition and journey of self-belief that Charlie was offered an apprenticeship. After years of negative experiences Charlie’s new ability to deal with situations differently has put him on the pathway to his dream job.

Bath Rugby

Charlie Dorrian

Reece joined the HITZ programme at Newcastle Falcons back in September after tragically losing his father and grandfather in close succession. Happening shortly after his 16th birthday and just before he was due to sit his GCSEs, understandably his mental health was severely impacted, and Reece struggled with low moods and thoughts of self-harm.

Losing both father figures in his life, Reece desperately needed support and stability which HITZ provided at a time when he could have lost his way. Incredible inner strength saw Reece finish school and sit his exams. With GCSE results not as positive as they might have been, he made the positive choice to join HITZ which has seen him excel in the last 12 months.

Reece has thrown himself back into education and sport to develop himself personally and academically. He regularly volunteers with the CAST at Falcons supporting match day operations, as well as at his local rugby club, coaching young people and helping them to access sporting opportunities. Reece vowed to support others and give his best despite going through the most challenging of times. This is evident in his willingness to learn, achieve and help others in the group at HITZ with a consistently caring and positive attitude. With Reece now referring to his peers and mentors at HITZ as his ‘family’ it has given him the foundation to go forward in life. Having recently completed his Level 2 Rugby Coaching award, Reece is now looking to progress onto Level 3 Sports Coaching with an ambition to become a full-time professional sports coach in the future.

In a story of unbelievable courage and strength, Evan fought back after years of hospitalisation to build her self-belief and confidence which is helping her to achieve her full potential. Before starting on the HITZ programme in January, Evan had not spent more than a few days in education. Born female but identifying as ‘he’ for a period of time, Evan suffered horrific bullying at school, despite support from her parents.

Missing out on being a child and a lack of social interaction affected her mental health culminating in a prolonged period in hospital. In just 15 weeks at HITZ, Evan made a remarkable achievement by passing all exams, after essentially learning from scratch, and developed from being shy, unconfident and lacking the ability to talk about herself in a positive way, to shining with confidence, communicating easily and working hard. Evan has flourished. Continuing the momentum, Evan applied for a Higher Education course in Sports Science at Hartpury College University, securing a place to start in September.

Since the completion of the HITZ Programme, Evan got in touch to say that she wanted to remain female as she now feels more confident about herself and now sees her life going in a new direction. This was a massive turning point for Evan and shows that Evan was able to make meaningful decisions with her life without seeking or needing other people’s approval.

Reece Wray

Newcastle Falcons Gloucester Rugby

Evan Vestey

The Community Volunteer of the Year Award is designed to reward a person who has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the community through their work at the club. A person who has used not just their spare time, but their passion, determination and dedication to make an outstanding contribution on many levels.

What the volunteers on the Premiership Rugby community programmes bring is nothing short of brilliant. Reading this year’s entries, it is clear that it is not only their time, but also their consistency, selfless approach and passion stands them apart from their peers. To be able to nurture, educate and instil confidence in young people whilst often facing challenges themselves is to be commended. For us they are all winners here today.

Judy Marsden, Global Head of Philanthropy, CVC

Over the last two years, Peter has earnt himself the title of ‘life changer’ at Bath Rugby Foundation. He is a consistent weekly fixture delivering sessions for young people attending the Alternative Learning Hub (ALH) not only to inspire them academically and provide guidance for employment, but to provide compassion, kindness and understanding. Peter is a renowned global business leader who in retirement has chosen generously to give back to the students sharing his time, knowledge and enviable book of contacts to have a positive impact on young lives.

Peter originally wanted to coach kids’ rugby, a sport he attributes to his own global success as it turned his confidence around as a boy. At his first session Pete recognised his 11-year-old self in many students, only without the opportunity he was afforded at a young age – to play rugby at grammar school which he views as deeply unfair. This moment was seminal to Peter’s role –from then on, he threw himself in headfirst with, in his words, ‘a renewed life purpose’.

His ability to build deep connections and willingness to understand others meant both students and staff at the ALH soon thrived from his coaching and mentoring. His admirable manner can quickly turn frustration and anger into learning and positivity.

In his own time, he also ran a student trip up Pen-Y-Fan to help students build self-esteem and friendship. He has also contributed financially to the programmeas well as establishing a fund via first XV membership to provide crucial money for bus fares or food for those on the programme that need extra support. Enthusiasm, energy and empathy are words used in abundance to describe ‘Pete’.

Bath Rugby

Peter Morgan

Despite her own physical challenges and health issues, Marie has supported and mentored others helping them to believe opportunities exist for everyone. Her nurturing approach produces the confidence in many to take the most important first steps to turning their lives around and achieve what they never thought possible like securing employment for the first time or breaking a cycle of dependency.

The inspiring impact Marie makes on those she works with on the HITZ programme, the CAST volunteer group and her work at Chilli Studios, a local art studio supporting those struggling with mental health problems, makes her an invaluable member of the local community. Marie volunteers on average 20 hours a week and converses passionately about the important work of the Newcastle Falcons Foundation to everyone from spectators to Board Directors. The result of Marie’s high levels of engagement has contributed to doubling the income from the foundation flutter tickets to allow greater investment in community projects.

Her kind and patient manner when she mentors new HITZ students is a contributing factor in helping them change the direction of their lives. She is encouraging and challenges students constructively, leading to strong bonds with all the young people she supports. When asked what motivates her to help people with such a wide range of backgrounds and abilities she is humble with her response, and says that seeing others thrive is her reward.

Tom is so committed to volunteering within rugby that it has been said he treats it like a full-time job. Despite fighting an aggressive form of cancer in his 30s which has left him medically retired in his 40’s, he has thrown himself enthusiastically into rugby. Tom consistently gives up to 15 hours a week of his time to supporting the delivery of the Project Rugby programme, directs the Cotswold Lionesses women’s rugby team, is the team manager for the Gloucestershire county women’s team as well as refereeing walking rugby sessions in Stroud. Tom credits rugby as giving him a purpose in life.

After his physical health deteriorated, he looks after his mental health by remaining engaged and motivated through volunteering within rugby. Passionate about removing barriers to play, Tom continually works to introduce new players to the game and led his women’s team to their first competitive match this season. His selfless involvement in women’s teams means the transition for girls on the Project Rugby programme to playing rugby regularly at Minchinhampton RFC is seamless. Indeed, so impactful is the work Tom does that it is due to be replicated in another area of the county.

Marie Chambers

Newcastle Falcons

Gloucester Rugby

Tom Nurse

The Community Coach of the Year Award is designed to reward a community coach who has gone above and beyond the call of duty to change the lives of participants through a national or local programme.

The unrelenting support from our clubs, club foundations and their inspirational coaches is astounding and our community programmes could not exist without them. We thank you all for giving us a unique offering where a commitment to each individual participant is evident. By having talented coaches working with us, who clearly give so much more than is expected, together we can help drive inclusion, participation and ensure young people reap the benefits of playing the sport we all love

Wayne Morris, Community and CSR Director, Premiership Rugby

Alex Randall

Bath Rugby

Alex has displayed unwavering support for young people over the last two years in his role as a Community Coach delivering a multitude of programmes including Project Rugby. Leading the first Mixed Ability team in Wiltshire, Melksham Stags, has embedded him firmly in the community and seen him transition over 40 young players into grassroots clubs. Alex continually champions inclusivity and recently set up the first girls’ team at Combe Down RFC with a 25-strong squad.

It is his empathetic, nurturing and supportive coaching style that helps young people like Teegan to turn their lives around through rugby. Teegan had lost her way at school and her behaviour declined until she was introduced to Alex. Thanks to his encouragement she tried rugby, loved it and with Alex’s support found a pathway into a girls’ team that has given her aspirations to become a sports coach herself. Alongside Teegan, Alex has introduced over 60 new players to teams across the Southwest this season alone. He consistently gives the greatest gift - his time - to every single player he coaches, breaking down skills into achievable sections to improve confidence whilst providing an energetic environment to make his sessions enjoyable. Thanks to Alex’s commitment Bath has some of the highest transition numbers across the country getting hundreds of young people into clubs.

Dan is the longest-serving Community Development Officer at Falcons helping to introduce an average of over 2500 new players to the game annually over the last 12 years. This unwavering commitment to developing and inspiring a new generation of rugby players is driven by his passion to showcase how rugby can be the positive difference in young people’s lives.

Dan takes time getting to know every participant on the programmes to find out what motivates them, enabling him to relate to them on a level they are comfortable with, to ensure they feel welcome and valued. An integral part of the delivery of the HITZ, Project Rugby, Defender Premiership Rugby Cup and Premiership Rugby Champions community programmes, his hard work and unrelenting commitment to developing rugby within the north-east has established him as a well-respected recognised figurehead in the community.

The difference Dan makes is largely down to his unique way of breaking down barriers and importantly the perceived barriers to playing rugby. His personable approach gives new players the confidence to learn, play and enjoy rugby. Dan knows how to get the best out of people. Having been an apprentice himself, Dan draws on his experience and uses this to deliver engaging lessons and coaching. This has resulted in increased numbers of young people playing at clubs from those groups who wouldn’t traditionally play rugby.

Rei is a coach who has been instrumental in increasing diversity in rugby across the Greater Manchester area. Her commendable work ethic and drive to understand how to interact with different communities led her to researching diverse cultural influences that affect involvement in rugby and it is working!

Thanks to Rei, Sale Sharks’ engagement with ethnically diverse communities is thriving in 2023. Not only is she committed to educating herself on how best to attract, engage and retain new players, she has passed on this knowledge to others. This has resulted in a greater understanding at Sharks of how best to support individuals and groups to experience the benefits of playing rugby.

Her work includes bringing the first LGBTQ+ group to a Project Rugby session, supporting over 100 girls from an ethnically diverse community through Ramadan and Eid, and she was instrumental in bringing the Sale Sharks Down Syndrome team and Saracens mixed ability team together for an awareness day. Rei is a positive influence on new players and her fellow coaches, continually striving to help them gain a better understanding of the cultures and lives of those supported on the community programmes. This ensures coaches get the best from participants and for participants it means an environment is created where they feel safe, understood and supported.

Dan Simpson

Newcastle Falcons

Sale Sharks

Rei Crooks