Burgess Hill Young Rugby Ambassadors Meet England Rugby Stars
19th November 2014

Two young players from Burgess Hill Rugby Club have recently had the fantastic opportunity to meet and interview some of the England rugby team.

Travelling to their training camp at Penny Hill Park Hotel in Bagshot, Surrey. Harry Blanthorn who plays for the Sussex All Blacks Colts team, and Lewis Strong who is an under 16, were lucky enough to spend the whole day where the England squad are based throughout the Autumn Internationals competition.

The lads are just two of four players from Burgess Hill RFC who are part of the England Rugby ‘Young Rugby Ambassador’ programme. The YRA’s are selected for their dedication to the sport of rugby and the commitment they have shown to their club, and despite all being under 18 years old, the Burgess Hill 4 have already clocked up over 30 years playing experience between them!

As ambassadors they are tasked with engaging young people in Rugby, with their current focus being promoting the upcoming Rugby World Cup which will be hosted by England next year.



Harry Blanthorn spoke about his experence:
"It was an awesome day, we got to see the incredible training facilities they have, and we interviewed Harlequins and England prop Joe Marler, and Exeter Chiefs and England Full-Back Jack Nowell.

"We asked them what it was like to walk out in front of a capacity crowd at Twickenham Stadium and represent their country, but also more fun things such as who takes the longest in the shower and what their match food is like! The England guys were brilliant, nothing was too much trouble and they were happy to sign all of the shirts and balls that we took with us”



Ross Hallifax, Director of Rugby at Burgess Hill:
"The boys have put together a fantastic programme of events for the coming year to promote both our club and RWC2015. They were very lucky to go to Penny Hill Park and meet the players, as only a handful were chosen nationally, and this is all down to their hard work.

"It’s really encouraging to have young players committed to their club and reflects the fact that Burgess Hill RFC is currently riding high, enjoying 300% growth in some age groups this season alone.

"To be host Nation for the Rugby World Cup really is a once in a generation event and will bring a massive injection of interest in the sport. If anyone in the area, at any age or level of ability is interested in playing rugby or finding out more about RWC2015 and the events we will be holding at the club, please get in touch ”. www.bhrfc.co.uk

Spread the word that Burgess Hill's young rugby players have been rubbing shoulders with England Internationals!