Successful rugby clubs are more than just victorious teams on the pitch. Players and coaches are vitally important but so are the many dedicated volunteers who work hard behind the scenes to help the club function.

You don’t have to be a rugby expert to get involved. Whether you’re a current player, someone who has hung up their boots or a person who has never picked up the oval ball, you could be a valued rugby volunteer.

While the benefits of volunteering are specific to each individual, the inclusive environment of a community rugby club is a rewarding place to be for people with differing sets of skills. There are opportunities to get involved for people of all ages, and some of the benefits include:

Building self-esteem and confidence.
Learning and developing new skills.
Enhancing work experience and building a CV.
Being active and improving health and wellbeing.
Meeting new people and broadening your social network.
Giving something back to the game you love.
Making a difference in the community.
Having fun!

How Do I Volunteer At A Community Rugby Club?

The benefits of volunteering at a rugby club are clear, but what kinds of roles are available and what sort of people are wanted? The RFU is keen to help and provide some guidelines to the initial questions budding volunteers may have. We want to make your introduction to rugby volunteering as smooth as a Jonny Wilkinson conversion.

What sort of skills and attributes will they be looking for?

Enthusiasm is the key. As long as that is present, any rugby club should welcome you with open arms. Whether you can feed the players, raise vital funds, improve facilities or promote the club, the club will be lucky to have your help.

What sort of volunteering opportunities are available?

There are a whole host of roles at rugby clubs, ranging from groundsman to orange-peeler to fixture secretary. While there are no absolute definitions of these roles, there is always somewhere that you will be able fit in.

What time commitment is involved?

Volunteering can take up as much or as little of your time as you want, but it is useful to agree some informal terms of reference with the club to ensure you are used effectively. Many clubs have a Club Volunteer Coordinator, a link between you and the club, who is a useful initial and ongoing contact.