Let’s go back 12 months ago, in May 2021 Lichfield RUFC embarked on a brand-new provision offering rugby sessions to those in our local community who have learning/physical disabilities. We teamed up with local organisation Liberty Jamboree who are based in Burntwood and launched our very own Mixed Ability Rugby Programme, delivering 1 session every week led by senior players Dave Lote, Kieran Reynolds and supported by DoR Dan Hemingway.

Since launching last May, the group have grown significantly with new players turning up every month. Thanks to the support of Leicester Tigers and the 'Project Rugby' initiative,
the group have had the opportunity to represent Leicester Tigers at two festivals playing against representatives from Worcester Warriors and Wasps. The festival was hosted at Cooke fields alongside the final men's 1st Xv game of the season.

The group are made up of young adults with a wide range of disabilities, but this does not stop them from taking part on a weekly basis, improving week on week. Lead Coach Dave Lote said “The group are fantastic, they surprise us every week with the skills on show, they all show up with an enthusiasm and excitement for the session and it is my favourite part of the week”

Next season, we plan to improve the programme even more by launching our Sunday sessions on a more regular basis opening it up to a wider group of children and young adults who want to access Rugby at their local community club.