Former England Rugby stars, Ugo Monye and Danielle Waterman, gave a surprise visit to Canvey Island Rugby Club, who are this season’s first Quilter Kids First Champions.
Ugo and Danielle were there to recognise the impressive Quilter Kids First approach the club have taken in creating a great rugby environment that keeps their young players in the game all the way from the under 7 to under 13 age levels.
The club’s impressive player retention was evident on the day with 146 children taking part. This strong figure highlights how far the club has come in a short space of time, having only 7 junior players in 2016. Canvey Island RFC is the first of eight champions this season to be selected for the prestigious grassroots award.
Following on from last season’s excitement around the programme, Quilter will travel across the country, recognising both schools and clubs who go above and beyond to put children first. Winners will be rewarded for thriving in at least one of the following areas: creating a great rugby environment, upskilling coaches, increased participation and growing the female game.
The day at Canvey Island was a huge success with former England stars, Ugo Monye and Danielle Waterman getting stuck into training with the kids and sharing their invaluable experience on the fundamental skills of the game with the young players.
The rugby stars moved around all of the age groups from U7 to U13, supporting the coaches, much to the excitement of the lucky junior players in attendance.
Former England winger, Ugo Monye commented: “This is what rugby is all about, it’s brilliant to see so many happy and engaged young faces representing Canvey Island Rugby Club.
“The environment the club has created is not only fantastic for these young players but also creates a create community atmosphere with friends and families coming to support their children.”