crowborough
FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG
Youth
“For a small town like Crowborough,
especially one that has an aged profile, we
have to be committed to growing our own
players. We run teams at every age group
from 6 to 18 with a core of qualified coaches
we are proud of. Being all inclusive is vital
for us, and ensuring fun, being with mates
and learning to play well is at the heart of
what we do. Notice that winning is not the
be all and all.
Currently on any given week 90% of our
senior players turning out will be home
grown. This compares very favourably to
other clubs close by who have succumbed
to the pay to play mentality.
In order to maintain this momentum we
are about to embark on three initiatives that
will cement our objectives of developing
our players locally.”
Initiatives
“Firstly we have KARI; Kids Active in
Rugby Initiative. This is aimed at local
primary schools and getting rugby onto
the curriculum in a dynamic way with top
flight coaches. Secondly we have Rugby
Fledglings. This is an initiative with the
local leisure complex to get children into
rugby as an early physical, learning and
interaction program.
Finally, with the support of the RFU we
develop stronger links with our local senior
school; Beacon Academy. Get rugby onto
the curriculum with a focus not just about
playing but also about what rugby can offer
in terms of social and life skills.”
Integration
“Our head coach; Richard Siggs, who
has experience with Harlequins and the
England regional set up, has developed
an integrated training and playing regime
for Under 13s upwards. As was seen this
season when Colts were asked to step into
the senior sides because of our injuries they
did so seamlessly because they had been
coached and were playing in the same style
across the club. It works both ways as we
have senior players coaching across the
junior age groups. This engenders a sense
of belonging and reinforces the playing
style.”
Commercial
“Our new club house has given us the
opportunity to hire out to 3rd parties
for celebrations, business meetings and
exhibitions. Our location within the town
(and region) combined with excellent new
facilities and ample parking has proved a
winner.
We work hard to ensure everything is done
professionally to a high standard from food
22 Issue 56
www.crowboroughrugby.com- Twitter : @crowboroughrfc