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21/09/2007

Sussex  Rugby  Football   Union

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1883

R. F.U.

 How can I take part  ?

 You can be part of the Game as a new 
or experienced Player, Coach, Referee, non-Player or Supporter 

 Interest in Rugby has never been higher and Sussex Rugby wants to welcome all those who are new to the game.     You can play Rugby - boys, girls, men and women from 7 upwards - we don't differentiate between sexes, race, creed or colour, and you can play at any age if you want to. 

In 2007 the 'go-play rugby' campaign which 17 Sussex Clubs have signed up for, is especially targeted at those who played some time ago -  at School or College or Club and who want to recapture the special atmosphere and buzz that comes from playing the game.  We want you back with us !

Rugby is the game for all - the 5 foot -16 stoner and the 6'6 - 9 stone beanpole.  There is a place for you in Rugby. Many now play well into their 30's and you can become a Referee, Coach or Touch Judge or Supporter at any age.   No experience necessary - Scroll down this page and then use our guide to look for a Club that will suit your needs - 

Rugby has no room for social, religious or racial differences, you don't need to have gone to a posh school, or be a Stockbroker - Sussex Rugby is made up of all sorts and is the better for it.- You just need an appreciation of good sport and fair play -  A word of warning - Rugby can grow on you - once you join the Rugby crowd - you won't want to leave - Rugby is more, much more than a game.   .

For a Player 

Players are the Number One requirement  for every Club,
and whatever your sex, age, shape, size or skill,  you will be welcomed.  

Start by looking  through the Clubs A-Z' and after looking at some of the Club websites, a good way to find out is to go and watch a Game or go to a training session (times from the Club Secretary).  Look at the facilities, the playing standard, coaching and the Fixture card.  Remember, the stronger the Club, the further it travels.  Some of the 'closed' clubs - the ones attached to Companies or Old Boys- often have arrangements to invite 'outside' players.

You only need to be Registered if you play for the First XV in a League game.  
Perhaps it is better to play a few friendly games before committing yourself.

Never played before ?
Just what every club wants - Ring the Club Secretary and explain - you will be welcomed and invited to go training where you can pick up the rudiments of the game quite easily and won't be made to look silly. There are plenty of instances   of people taking up the game and within a very few weeks playing in the top Club sides.   Remember that Rugby has always traditionally been the game for everyone - there is a place for the 18 stoner at 5'3" and the 9 stoner at 6'6" and everyone in between.
- you won't ever know if you don't ever try it.

Every Club wants new members - the 'spirit of rugby' is not just a sentiment it can be a way of life !  
- play a good hard game with your mates and find out !     
Rugby Union is the finest Team game in the world, but we need players
- you will be most welcome at any of our Clubs.

Coach ?  
Good coaching is the power behind a good team
- whether it is the First XV or the Under 8's. Sussex RFU Coaching and Player Development committee run a series of courses for all ages  from beginners upwards.  
Look at the Coaching Page or  at the Rugby Development Page

Referee ?  
Referees are a vital part of our game - no Refs - no Match !
Follow the links to the Referees Website make the contact and join one of the most progressive Societies in England.  Their induction and coaching programmes are used as a model by other Counties.  Whether you aim for France v Wales at the Stade de France or some of our splendid village teams -  the spirit and commitment is the same  - Sussex Referees Society can help.  

Non-Player ?  
Every Club relies on its non-players to do everything from getting the teams out to keeping the books.  Just turn up on a Saturday and someone will find a job for you !

Supporter ? 
More people watch the game at Club level than ever before.  Except for some K.O. Cup games, there is usually no admission charge, but you may be 'invited' to buy a programme.  You will be welcome in the Bar after the game, and its surprising how soon you will make friends.

If you are still unsure, and want some advice, e-mail us on 'sussexrugby@hotmail.com' 
and we may be able to suggest a suitable Club for you.

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