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Spotlight - It Takes a Region: The Story Behind England Students Men

Updated: May 13



It often looks simple when a team runs out onto the pitch in an England shirt. In reality, the England Students Men’s programme is built on the dedication of more than 50 volunteers and supporters who give their time to make the experience possible. As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child; for this programme, it took a whole region. Across the North-East and North Yorkshire, people came together to host, support and deliver an unforgettable week that extended far beyond the result on the field.


At the heart of the programme is a commitment to developing student players not just as athletes, but as ambassadors for the university game. Each year, the focus is on creating meaningful experiences that broaden perspectives, build connection and leave a positive impact on the communities that host the squad.


This year’s camp at RAF Leeming provided exactly that. The partnership with the RAF opened up unique opportunities for players and staff to engage in experiences far removed from their day-to-day environments. Sessions with the RAF Regiments on base offered insight into the evolving nature of their roles, equipment and operations, while later in the week the squad were invited to take part in flight and virtual reality simulators with instructors and pilots, an experience that will stay with many of them long after their playing days.



The visit also reinforced the importance of dual career pathways. England legend Rory Underwood, England Men’s all-time leading try scorer with 49 tries in 85 internationals, a record that has stood since his retirement in 1996, spent time with the squad, sharing his experiences of balancing international rugby with a demanding RAF career. His insight provided a powerful reminder of the opportunities that exist alongside the game.



The connection with the local community was equally important. Based within the station, RAF Leeming Community Primary School welcomed the squad for two rugby sessions with Years 3 to 4 and Years 5 to 6, engaging around 90 children. Players and staff led fun, inclusive activities designed to build confidence and enthusiasm for the game.



Charlotte Wilkinson, a teacher at the school, said:

“Thank you to the England Rugby Students squad and their team for their visit to school yesterday. The children had a fantastic time taking part in the activities and learning new skills from such talented players. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to develop their teamwork, confidence and enthusiasm for sport.

The squad were excellent role models, demonstrating not only their sporting ability but also their positive attitudes and encouragement throughout the sessions. The children were inspired by their visit, and many are already keen to get more involved in rugby.

We are very grateful for the time and energy the team gave, and we hope to welcome them back again in the future.”



The visit left a strong impression on hosts as well. Group Captain John A Lawson, Station Commander RAF Leeming, added:

“It was an honour to meet the players and coaching staff of the England Students Men rugby squad and host them at RAF Leeming as they prepared for the match against France. I’m immensely grateful for the squad taking time out to visit our primary school on the Station and for spending some time with the children there. The team were brilliant in their engagement and truly inspirational, showcasing English rugby and themselves to the highest of standards.”


For the players, these shared experiences played a crucial role in bringing the group together. As Team Manager Andrew Kennedy reflected:

“The activities we took part in away from the pitch really helped bond the group and build a strong sense of cohesion. It brought the players closer together and significantly enhanced the overall England Students experience.”


Matchday itself was a celebration of the wider university game. At half time, the Newcastle Northern Angels, Newcastle University’s competitive cheerleading and dance squad, took centre stage, representing another group of student athletes thriving in their environment. Team Manager Liv Bateson said: “Honestly, it has been such an honour to be a part of something so big, thank you for this opportunity.”


Behind the scenes, the contribution of local partners was vital. Newcastle Red Bulls played a central role in making the fixture possible. Without their generosity in providing and supporting the venue, there would simply not have been a stage for the occasion. The Under 15s from Percy Park delivered an excellent ball crew performance on the night, Newcastle University hosted the French at their facilities, while the support of Northumberland RFU by Penny Stewart, RFU Council Representative for Northumberland and World Rugby Representative, who met with French counterparts and attended the match with Northumberland Rugby President Craig Wrightson. Penny reflected: “Wonderful Friday evening and match yesterday. It was a pretty amazing match to watch and an absolute pleasure to meet you all and understand more about the university game. Thank you for taking the time to invite me and for enlightening me too.”


While a thrilling win over France capped the week - England Students Men’s team beat France Universités 55–42 - the true success of the England Students programme lies in moments like these. Players giving back, communities engaging with the game, and young people seeing what is possible. Given the opportunity, these students continue to show they are not only talented athletes, but outstanding ambassadors for rugby and their communities.





 
 
 

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