We have been advised that the head guard currently does not meet World Rugby specifications and is being evaluated by the developers. Until this process is complete, World Rugby has requested that the headgear is not worn in any rugby match and this information is communicated to any players who may wish to wear the product.

The England Rugby RugbySafe online Essential Guides and FAQs provide useful information and guidelines on a number of player welfare issues including the use of head guards and other protective equipment. For more information see: http://www.englandrugby.com/rugbysafe/guides-and-faqs/.

Don’t be a HEADCASE is the RFUs concussion awareness programme. For key information and guidance on concussion, see: http://www.englandrugby.com/my-rugby/players/player-health/concussion-headcase/

Young Rugby Ambassador (YRA) Update

Saturday 5th November saw the second YRA conference, this time held in Birmingham. Young Ambassadors came together from across the country and took part in two workshops focusing on bringing their ideas to life through networking with RFU colleagues and other YRAs and an Apprentice style challenge focusing on the pressures and challenges of running a rugby club.

YRAs attending the workshops were asked to make a pledge to what they will achieve over the next few months in their local area. Ideas ranged from recruiting other YRAs in their club, to growing the girls’ game in their school and recruiting more young referees to help support tournaments and competitive opportunities for young players.

For more information on the YRA programme contact your RDO or visit: http://www.englandrugby.com/my-rugby/volunteers/young-rugby-ambassador/. We aim to reach a total of 1,500 YRAs by the end of the season, with 200 new clubs represented in the programme.

YRA stats update:
· 1,001 YRAs across England
· 282 YRAs logging at least ten hours
· In excess of 12,500 hours logged, to date
Of YRAs who have logged hours:
· 151 are coaching
· 72 are refereeing
· 44 are volunteering in administrative roles
· The majority of YRAs logging at least 10 hours (148) are volunteers in their local clubs

For more information then please contact:
Ian Wilson
Minis & Juniors Chairman
e: miniandjuniors@bracknellrugby.com