30 January 2006
Prince's Trust Ambassador and former Scotland International Kenny Logan was at Murrayfield to launch a new initiative which uses the power of rugby to help young people at risk of exclusion.
Working with the English, Welsh and Scottish rugby union governing bodies, RBS 6 Nations with The Prince's Trust will apply rugby's team-based values to build skills for 14-16 year olds in schools near Twickenham, The Millennium Stadium and Murrayfield who are at risk of truanting and under-achievement.
"Rugby can make such a huge difference to the lives of young people from different backgrounds in so many ways. The teamwork, determination, leadership and focus that are demonstrated by rugby players on the pitch are the same skills that RBS 6 Nations with The Prince's Trust develops in the young people it works with," said Kenny after holding tag rugby and Q&A sessions with pupils from three Edinburgh and West Lothian schools.
With Kenny's help, 30 lucky pupils from Whitburn Academy, Queensferry High School and Inveralmond Community School formed the Guard of Honour at Scotland's triumphant win over Six Nations favourites France on 5 February.
The unique partnership between RBS Six Nations and The Trust will offer pupils in xl clubs an introduction to the game of rugby through multiple tag rugby sessions, access to players and educational materials; as well as coaching from union staff on nutrition and healthy lifestyles. The scheme aims to improve the attendance, self-esteem, motivation and social skills of the pupils in their last two years of compulsory education. It will also provide advice on associated future careers within the game, behind-the-scenes stadium tours and on-the-pitch involvement on match days.
