Project Rugby is a grassroots participation programme delivered by Premiership Rugby, in collaboration with England Rugby and Gallagher.

Project Rugby is designed to introduce as many people as possible to rugby, engage new audiences and stimulate a lifelong interest in the game The programme specifically aims to increase participation in the game from underrepresented groups: people from ethnically diverse communities and lower socio-economic backgrounds, and people with disabilities, positioning rugby as a sport for anyone regardless of background or ability.

As part of Project Rugby, Saracens Foundation deliver a free 6-week rugby programme to local schools and community groups within Essex, Hertfordshire and North London. During these sessions, participants learn the fundamentals of rugby in a fun and safe environment. After these sessions, the groups are invited to a festival at either the local rugby club or StoneX Stadium to put their newly learned skills against other groups within the project. By engaging in the project, we aim to inspire participants to transition to their local grassroots club.

RUGBY PARTICIPATON IN SCHOOLS 9.7% DROP TO 8.3%

In 2018/19, 9.7% of 5 to 16-year-olds in school had participated in rugby. In 2022/23, that rate had dropped to 8.3%.

ONLY 4% OF THE RUGBY POPULATION ARE FROM ETHNICALLY DIVERSE COMMUNITIES

Vs 20% of the total English population

43% OF DISABLED PEOPLE FEEL THEY HAVE THE CHANCE TO BE AS ACTIVE AS THEY WANT

Compared to 69% of non-disabled people.

Project Rugby Delivery

Block Session Delivery

Through a series of 6-week engagement sessions, participants will be progressively introduced to the sport's fundamentals. Each week focuses on a specific skill, finishing with a fun, competitive game tailored to their group's abilities.

Project Rugby delivery

Festivals

Festivals will aim to build connections between schools, clubs, and participants by inviting both parents and club coaches. This creates familiar faces at the club level, easing the transition for those interested in continuing their rugby journey. Additionally, festivals will feature skill-matched games, ensuring a fun and competitive experience for all.

Project Rugby DEC/LSEG is designed to encourage lifelong participation in rugby. This is achieved through engagement with young people from disadvantaged and vulnerable communities through their school PE rugby lessons. From here, all schools are invited to compete in a local festival taking place at their local rugby club. This introduction to their local club then supports their transition to sustained engagement with this club; ultimately leading to lifelong participation in rugby.

project rugby

playing opportunities

This year, we will be working with the following clubs to provide opportunity to the next generation of rugby players from our community:

Project Rugby

experiences

Furthermore, we want to inspire our Project Rugby participants through providing experiences such as attending Captains Run training sessions prior to matches.

Locations

Chingford RFC

291 Waltham Way,

London

E4 8AQ

Eaton Manor RFC

The New Wilderness,

Nutter Ln,

London

E11 2JA

Harrow RFC

Wood Ln,

Stanmore

HA7 4LF

Hitchin RFC

Old Hale Way,

Hitchin

SG5 1XL

Letchworth RFC

Baldock Rd,

Letchworth Garden City

SG6 2EN

Regents Park RFC

The Hub

Regent's Park

London

NW1 4RU

Woodford RFC

High Road,

Woodford Green,

Essex

IG8 9LB

As part of Project Rugby, Saracens Foundation deliver a free 6-week rugby programme to local Disability Groups and Schools within Essex, Hertfordshire and North London. During these sessions, participants learn the fundamentals of Tag Rugby in a fun and safe environment. After these sessions, the groups are invited to a festival at either the local rugby club or StoneX stadium to show off their skills with other teams of similar ability. It is also a good chance for parents and carers to see their participant play rugby and show that rugby is a sport for all as well as allowing local coaches to come down and talk about their clubs in details direct to parents, carers and participants.

These sessions are tailored to each group and the coach is capable of adapting the session for any and all impairments including, visual, physical and mental. They are also all non-contact and can be delivered either during the school curriculum or as a extra curriculum club.

project rugby

playing opportunities

This year, we will be working with the following clubs to provide opportunity to the next generation of rugby players from our community:

Project Rugby

experiences

Furthermore, we want to inspire our Project Rugby participants through providing experiences such as attending Captains Run training sessions prior to matches.