RBS 6 Nations Round 4 – The grassroots of rugby to be recognised at Twickenham

Today RBS placed the names of almost 400 grassroots rugby clubs in miniature writing on the turf at Twickenham ahead of the England vs Italy RBS 6 Nations clash this weekend. Barely visible to the human eye, the names reward the clubs who have signed up to the RugbyForce programme. The blades were written on by RBS to recognise the important connection between the grassroots clubs and the elite game.

The scribed grass represents the foundation of support for the team ahead of their final home game of the Championship on Sunday. A micro writer spent 30 hours writing the names of the rugby clubs on the blades – so small they measure 1mm wide and less than 4cm long.

The clubs are being rewarded for signing up to RugbyForce, a community programme which helps improve club facilities. Now in its 5^th year, RugbyForce is run by RBS across the four home nations. In England the programme is designed and delivered in partnership with the RFU, under the banner of Natwest, with the aim of helping clubs become stronger businesses.

Unveiling the blades at Twickenham today, ex England player and RugbyForce supporter Jason Leonard said: “ RugbyForce is thanking the clubs that keep the game alive at grassroots level; I’m particularly looking forward to seeing Mitcham RFC being given their moment of fame on the international stage as I visited the club last year over the RugbyForce Weekend. “

Twickenham Head Goundsman Keith Kent said “I’ve worked here for 10 years and it is the first time I’ve seen anything like this! When I was first approached about writing on the blades of grass I thought it wouldn’t be possible. It is a great way of recognising the RugbyForce clubs.”

RBS Sponsorship Manager Martyn Wilson said “When the England team run out to play Italy on Sunday, they will be supported by the grassroots of the game represented by these blades. It’s a reminder of the importance of local clubs, providing the next generation of England stars and providing a hub in communities across the UK. International rugby is stronger thanks to the grassroots of the game, which is why programmes such as RugbyForce are key.”