NEWTON Abbot Rugby Club has launched its community coaching programme.
The scheme aims to develop links between schools and clubs and also provide opportunities for girls' and women's rugby.
Ben Rowntree (above), who has been appointed as the new community coach, will be running after- school activities and taster sessions which will be free to all children and will link both Newton Abbot and Teignmouth rugby clubs.
Rowntree has immense enthusiasm and passion for the sport and has represented Devon in rugby at all age groups.
The programme is set to run for three years thanks to sponsorship from E & J W Glendinning, Europlas Windows, Devon RFU, RFU and South Dartmoor Community College Partnerships, which has boosted the one year funding from the Awards For All lottery funding.
Phil Burford, director of coaching at Newton Abbot RFC, said: 'This is a unique opportunity for children to get involved with rugby and the fitness and friendship it can provide.
'We are very fortunate to have won the funding and have such an accomplished coach.'