Project Rugby: From watching on TV to taking on Devon’s best – Tiverton High School student Macey shares her story

Macey, a year 10 pupil at Tiverton High School, was inspired to try rugby after seeing it on television, although apprehensive about the contact side of the sport. Through Project Rugby, Exeter Chiefs community coaches changed the perception of rugby and ignited enthusiasm - not just for Macey but the wider school.

Project Rugby, the award-winning participation programme delivered by PREM Rugby in partnership with Gallagher UK and England Rugby, has a powerful mission: to get more schools playing rugby across the country, transforming young lives along the way. The Exeter Chiefs are supporting this mission, working with schools in their local community to introduce the sport to children who might not otherwise pick up a ball.

At Tiverton High School, rugby previously had very little uptake during PE or after school activities. This all changed when students were told that the Exeter Chiefs community team were coming into school to run rugby sessions. Even the shyest pupils were encouraged to take part, proving that rugby is a great way to step outside of your comfort zone, socialise and make new friends.

Macey’s story:

Whilst rugby had never been well attended, that began to change with Project Rugby. Year 10 pupil Macey explained: “I think most people were worried about the contact part of rugby so very few took part.”

Having only watched rugby on TV, Macey’s interest was piqued when it was announced that the Exeter Chiefs team would be coming into school: “This created quite a bit of excitement. It was going to be focusing on girls only sessions but with an after school mixed session as an option.”

Inspired by the programme, Macey began playing more regularly at her local club, which she credits Project Rugby for: “off the back of attending the sessions at school, more people joined our local club so I enjoyed going along too.”

With her newfound confidence and growing love for the game, she took the plunge and attended the Devon Player Development Group trials: “It was a tough day, playing and training with the best players across Devon. I had some positive feedback and was given some areas to work on.”

Armed with fresh motivation and a better understanding of her game, Macey is excited to continue her rugby journey. Her story highlights the transformative power of opportunity and is a clear example of how structured support and encouragement can enable young players to take the next step.

Lauren Puig – PE teacher at Tiverton High School, added: “Project Rugby has made a real difference in our school. We’ve seen a clear increase in participation especially by the girls, but more importantly, a shift in confidence. Students who were previously hesitant are now actively getting involved and supporting one another. It’s been great to see our students pursue rugby outside of school as a result.”

Dave Armstrong, at Exeter Chiefs, said: “Project Rugby helps break down some of the common barriers we often see with new players - contact being one of the main ones. Confidence in that area can be a real hurdle at first, but through creating a safe, supportive environment those barriers disappear.”

Building more than players

Having already introduced more than 140,000 young people to the sport, the aim of Project Rugby goes far deeper than participation. It unlocks potential. Rugby helps young people grow in confidence and resilience, find their voice and realise what they are capable of. Whether played at school, in a park or at a club, it fosters teamwork, pride and builds a sense of belonging. It creates friendships, supports healthier lifestyles and can open pathways into sport and education.

Project Rugby is open to everyone, everywhere. Schools do not need a rugby pitch or specialist facilities, just pupils willing to try something new and a teacher ready to give them the opportunity. Teachers with no previous rugby experience are supported through the Gallagher Touchline Academy, a dedicated programme that develops the skills and confidence to continue delivering rugby long after the initial sessions end.

Get Involved

Schools interested in offering Project Rugby should contact Exeter Chiefs using link below to find out more.

https://www.exeterchiefs.co.uk/community/project-rugby

No specialist facilities are required, and teachers receive ongoing training and support.

Parents keen to see their child’s school involved are encouraged to speak to PE leads or senior leadership teams. Young people can also explore opportunities through their local rugby clubs.

Since taking up rugby, Macey is excited to play more and continue progressing her skills: “I’m so grateful that this programme came to our school. I can’t wait to see where my rugby journey takes me.”