Lions Launches Grassroots Programme

26 Mar 2017 | tshego

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The British & Irish Lions is launching a grassroots programme in partnership with the four home unions called ‘Pick of the Pride’.

The programme has been developed in collaboration with the unions with the aim of using the Lions brand to inspire a future generation of rugby players and to help retain existing youth players in the game.

Four ambassadors aged 18 to 21 will be selected from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales based on their involvement and contribution to grassroots rugby, vision for the future of the game, and understanding of the Lions core values of respect, integrity, discipline and friendship.

The ambassadors will travel to New Zealand to understand the challenges facing youth rugby globally and establish a network with their counterparts. They will then bring their learnings back to share these with their own clubs and with other clubs in their region.

British & Irish Lions, chief operating officer, Charlie McEwen said: “Fans throughout the world have followed and enjoyed the Lions Tours over the last 129 years and now for the first time the phenomenon of the Lions will be used to directly have an impact on grassroots rugby in the UK and Ireland.

“Working closely with the home unions we hope that the programme will help rugby communities understand best practise, build and develop the game of youth rugby and create a global network to share ideas at home.”

Rugby Football Union, rugby development director, Steve Grainger commented: “This is a great opportunity for youngsters across the country to be rewarded for their efforts and commitment to the game. They can become a part of the amazing Lions experience in New Zealand. Young players from the grassroots game are rugby’s future and this is a chance to inspire them to continue to play throughout their lives and remain part of the global rugby family.”

The activity will be supported by a digital and social media campaign on www.Lionsrugby.com/Learning and across all @LionsOfficial social channels with the hastags #AllForOne and #PickOfThePride.