Project Rugby is a grassroots rugby programme designed to increase participation in Rugby by people from traditionally under-represented groups.

Part of a National initiative, launched by England Rugby and Premiership Rugby, it provides accessible opportunities to experience, enjoy and play rugby, across over 200 community locations within England. The primary focus of Project Rugby is to transition new players and volunteers into local grassroots rugby clubs. The project’s innovative approach looks to utilise rugby’s core values, increasing levels of resilience and confidence among participants, as well as helping people to feel more connected to their local community.

Leicester Tigers Community coaches are growing participation in rugby amongst under-represented groups across Leicestershire and Staffordshire. Our coaches have also been in a number of local Special Schools, working with young people who have a range of special educational needs and disabilities. We have now started mixed ability rugby training at Lichfield RFC, working with local charity Liberty Jamboree, as well as supporting the Tigers Foundation in the development of the Leicester Tiger's Down Syndrome team.

Gallagher have announced their partnership with Project Rugby, bolstering the community insurance broker’s commitment to support not only the professional game, but also at a grassroots level across the country.

In its first season as Official Title Partner of Premiership Rugby, Gallagher has been championing the people within the game that embody the values and spirit of rugby, both on and off the pitch.

Visit the website: www.premiershiprugby.com/community/project-rugby

The programme

What is Project Rugby?

• Flagship participation initiative run by Premiership Rugby and its clubs in partnership with the RFU and sponsored by Gallagher.
• Designed to engage and develop new audiences through rugby and stimulate a lifelong interest in the game.
• Increase participation in the game by people from traditionally underrepresented groups.
  • Ethnically diverse communities
  • People from lower socio-economic backgrounds
  • Disabled people
• Activities consist of accessible formats including touch and mixed ability

Project aims/outcomes

• Changing existing perceptions of the game, ensuring that rugby is a sport for anyone regardless of background, ethnicity or ability and championing the core values.
• Engage and transition new participants from accessible rugby activities onto regular rugby participation.
• Improving overall individual well being by increasing self-confidence, resolve, reducing social isolation and improving levels of social connectedness.

Throughout this season, in Leicestershire we will be working closely with four local rugby clubs to provide opportunities for new players to become part of their clubs. The Tigers community team are always looking to work with additional schools and grassroots clubs to expand the scope of our Project Rugby programme.

How to get involved

Anyone who would like to find out more information about Project Rugby can email [email protected] – Rugby Development Officer & Project Rugby Lead.

Leicester Tigers Project Rugby team:

Matt Thomas – Rugby Development Officer – Project Rugby Lead | [email protected]