Northampton Saints are delighted to be launching a brand-new, free-to-attend Mixed Ability rugby programme later this month – reinforcing the Club’s commitment to inclusivity within the sport.
Following increased engagement with local schools and community groups, the Club’s community department are now hoping to provide more opportunities for people with disabilities to learn how to play rugby, or experience being part of a rugby club.
The new Saints Mixed Ability rugby team will train on Wednesday evenings at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens (Pitch 3) from 5.30pm to 6.30pm, starting from Wednesday 30 April and initially running until the end of the school summer term in late July.
Community coaches from Saints, including England and Loughborough Lightning star Daisy Hibbert-Jones, will deliver the programme – which aims to reach those aged 12 and older within disability groups who are either seasoned players, or have never before considered trying rugby.
The sessions will be inclusive for those with physical disabilities, or able-bodied participants with learning disabilities. Participants must have a registered disability to attend.
This initiative builds upon Saints’ ongoing efforts to support inclusive rugby. Previously, via Project Rugby, the Club collaborated with local teams to increase involvement in Mixed Ability rugby at grassroots level.
The new programme will bring a regular opportunity for participation as well as the creation of a Saints Mixed Ability team, with fixtures against other Mixed Ability clubs to be organised over the coming months.
“We’re incredibly excited to be launching this fantastic new programme, which we hope will get more local people with disabilities involved in rugby,” said Hibbert-Jones.
“We want to welcome any and every person with either learning or physical disabilities to take part in these sessions – they really are for everyone, regardless of ability or level of experience.”
Daisy Hibbert-Jones
“We’re very proud to be at the forefront of initiatives like these. Getting underrepresented groups playing sport is very important, and I have no doubt that participants in this new Mixed Ability rugby programme will soon discover the power and values of rugby.
“There are loads of sessions coming up, which are all free to attend, so I’m looking forward to seeing how the programme plays out with the help of our superb Saints community coaching team.”
To get involved or find out more about Saints Mixed Ability rugby, please contact [email protected].
Saints Mixed Ability Rugby
TIME: 5.30pm to 6.30pm on Wednesday evenings (starting Wednesday 30 April)
LOCATION: cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, Pitch 3 (please enter via Ross Road)
AGES: 12+
PREVIOUS RUGBY EXPERIENCE: None required. Participants must have a registered disability to attend.
PRICE: Free
