England rugby team unveil new mascot to encourage kids to take up the game

The England rugby team have unveiled a new mascot to try and encourage kids as young as five to take up the game.

An English bulldog called “Ruckley” will be spearheading the campaign to get more youngsters playing rugby.

Ruckley was unveiled as the RFU’s new ambassador at Twickenham by British Lions hero Alex Corbisiero and England forwards coach Graham Rowntree.

Team: Stuart Lancaster and Ruckley oversee training

Scrum: Graham Rowntree and Ruckley get involved in the action

 

Talking about Ruckley’s appointment, Rowntree said: “We’re delighted to welcome Ruckley to the England set up.

“He’s got an infectious personality and he’s already become everyone’s best friend.

“We’re certain he will help lots of children fall in love with the game.”

As well as helping make the sport more engaging and easier to understand for young players Ruckley’s first job will be to help promote Kids First Rugby which is a new approach to the way mini rugby is played.

Training: Ruckley takes a pass from Tom Woods

Pals: Alex Corbisiero and Tom Youngs train alongside Ruckley

 

RFU Player Development Manager Gary Townsend said: “Our Kids First approach aims to enhance the rugby experience for young players, coaches and parents to help keep more players in the game.

“The focus is on the child and giving them a bite-sized, manageable programme so players of all abilities can develop at their own pace.”

The new rules for playing rugby under the Kids First approach became mandatory at all rugby clubs in England at Under 7s, Under 8s and Under 9s.

Article source: http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/Rugby-Union-Stoke-time-click-says-skipper-Chris/story-19753246-detail/story.html

England rugby team unveil new mascot to encourage kids to take up the game