Rwc 2015 Volunteer ‘try Outs’ Close
The final leg of the Rugby World Cup 2015 volunteer selection events, the Try Outs, concluded in Twickenham this week after six months on the road.
The search aims to find the 6,000 volunteers who will make up The Pack, launched in February 2014, after receiving over 20,000 applications.
Since then, more than 10,000 applicants have taken part in the Try Outs with events held in every Rugby World Cup 2015 host city.
In total, the search for The Pack has spanned 1,320 miles, across 13 venues and included over 3,333 hours of interviews, while prospective volunteers have ranged from age 18 to 85.
Alongside Rugby World Cup winning legends such as Jonny Wilkinson, Will Greenwood and Martin Johnson, England Rugby 2015 CEO, Debbie Jevans, and minister for sport, Helen Grant also attended the final leg of the Try Outs, meeting the volunteers.
Jevans said: ‘The interest we have received from people across England and Wales to volunteer at Rugby World Cup 2015 has been fantastic. With over 20,000 applications for just 6,000 roles within The Pack, the enthusiasm to be part of the event is clear and we thank everyone for taking the time to apply.’
‘Our aim throughout the Try Outs has been to make the process a truly memorable experience and we have seen a strong response to our in-house stadium cinema, Rugby exhibition, changing room and interactive activities. ‘
‘We’ve even surprised some attendees with visits from the Webb Ellis Cup as well as a few well known faces like Jonny Wilkinson, Will Greenwood and Martin Johnson who have seen for themselves the important role that volunteers play at Rugby World Cup tournaments. The passion, knowledge and commitment that we have seen throughout the Try Outs makes me confident the volunteers for Rugby World Cup 2015 will become the faces of the Tournament whilst welcoming the world to every venue, city and match day and of course to the game of Rugby.’
As part of the selection process, potential members of The Pack are asked questions based on the values of the game and their suitability for the role that they are being considered for in 2015.
There will be a range of roles throughout the lead up and delivery of the Tournament but they will mainly be focused on transport and spectator services.
Helen Grant, who attended the Richmond Upon Try Outs, added: ‘The fantastic turnout for the Try Outs recruitment drive highlights how Rugby World Cup 2015 has captured the excitement and interest of the nation. Speaking to the volunteers today their enthusiasm is infectious. I know those selected will play a vital role in making the Tournament a huge success, helping to grow the game at home and abroad.’
According to England 2015, the majority of The Pack will be recruited from the Rugby community who help run the game week in, week out. The remainder will come from the general public, providing an opportunity to bring new people into the game.
Will Greenwood, who attended the final day of Try Outs, said: ‘The sheer volume of applicants for the The Pack from across the country only demonstrates the enthusiasm for Rugby World Cup 2015 as we approach the year of the Tournament. Everyone wants to be a part of one of the world’s biggest sporting events, whether they’ve applied to volunteer, bought tickets or plan to soak up the buzz across the country as the countdown begins.’
