There’s a role for everyone on the rugby pitch, regardless of your size, background or ability.
That was the message when I visited Preston Grasshoppers RFC to hear how the club is growing the game for players aged under six right through to seniors.
Recruitment can be an issue for rugby clubs, with young people historically tending to take up the sport if they had a family connection. Even then, many have previously dropped off right before graduating to senior teams, leaving clubs with gaps.
Preston Grasshoppers, based in Lightfoot Green Lane, has been tackling these challenges head-on.
A community foundation, launched in 2025, was set up to carry out school outreach and is already working with six primary schools.
Jake Squirrell, head of the foundation and a senior Grasshoppers player, told me the sport has the potential to teach life skills, from good communication, following the rules and how to stay safe.
Two high schools have also enlisted the foundation to provide a mentoring scheme for pupils with a track record of truancy.
During our tour, chairman John Chesworth told me the club’s efforts mean it now has about 2,000 members, including a women’s team and walking rugby sessions for over 50s.
He shared that: “Rugby players come in all shapes and sizes, and they can all find a role in the game.”
There’s also a strong social aspect to the club, which provides space for people to meet for a drink and something to eat, as well as private functions, six days a week.
In one of the bar areas, it was interesting to see match shirts once worn by former player Steve Borthwick, now coach of the England team.
Thanks to John, Jake and everyone at Preston Grasshoppers for inviting me down.
