For four years, Ian has been coaching the juniors on a Sunday morning, giving kids in the area the opportunity to be active, become part of a team, and make new friends. In 2017, he and a group of the club’s committee members organised a schools rugby tournament, joining forces with Lincs Inspire to give even more young people a chance to try the sport. 

18 months ago, Ian brought O2 touch rugby to the town – a non-contact form of rugby which is open to anyone and everyone over the age of 15. This has proven to be hugely popular, and recently a new ladies squad has come together to train, the first in almost 20 years. 

Since becoming a Coach, Ian has become a member of both the Junior and Senior committees. He says: “I truly believe that rugby is a fully-inclusive team sport. There is a place in teams for every shape and ability. It teaches respect and discipline, every player refers to the ref as ‘sir’. The friends you make on a rugby pitch are friends for life. 

“Clubs like ours are run purely by volunteers and without these people behind the scenes, grassroots rugby would struggle.”

Portrait proudly sponsored by...