Rugby's return is embraced by Lewes players

Clubs have been greenlit by the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport to play Ready4Rugby, an adapted non-contact game and O2 Touch.

More than 1,000 clubs got involved with support from England Rugby players, coaches and special guests across the country.

Lewes RFC held taster sessions for new players, tested out the new Ready4Rugby format with U14s playing a friendly versus Shoreham RFC, and the men’s and women’s seniors playing mixed touch rugby.

The large numbers of players, parents and visitors enjoyed barbecue and bar facilities in the sunshine, while Tom Bowen - an England Sevens player, who started playing rugby aged five with Lewes - was on-hand to help with the minis awards.

There was lots of positive feedback from parents and players alike.

Comments included: “Well done for today. Was great to see SO many kids playing rugby at our club. The future’s bright.”

“Loved it - pity it couldn’t have happened ages ago”

“From minis to vets, the pride is one! Fantastic day. Thank you!”

Raffle prizes were donated by Harlequins RFC, England Rugby and local businesses with over £800 raised for the club.

A day like this cannot happen without an enormous team of volunteers from across the club. Thanks went to everyone who helped make the day a huge success.

The senior club hosted visiting teams for the first time since March under the RFU’s latest Covid-19 guidelines in the form of a 10-a-side touch rugby tournament at a sunny Stanley Turner Ground.

With two sides from Lewes and one each from Brighton Sea Serpents, Seaford and Ditchling, a series of friendly “round robin” matches were played with post-match festivities in the form of a barbecue and liquid refreshments!

Because of the success of this trial event, the club will now continue this tournament on a weekly basis, each Saturday commencing at 2pm, until clearance has been given for a return to fully-competitive rugby.