Heineken announces social rugby initiative

Wednesday 18th June 2008

Heineken once again associated itself with the biggest tournament in European rugby on Tuesday, in its thirteenth year of sponsorship of Europe's premier rugby tournament, but while the draw for that was going on, another Heineken tournament was born.

Social teams from all over the UK will contest the Heineken 10s next season, with an anticipated 3500 players taking part in tournaments at 16 clubs.

It is the first ever national 10s tournament for England, and the host clubs will receive grants from Heineken to enable facility improvements.

Will Greenwood has been appointed ambassador for the tournament, which is set to be a healthy breath of fresh rugby spirit into a season that often wallows in the dirge of professionalism and cold-blooded quest for success.

"The Heineken 10s represents a lot of what rugby is all about to me," he said.

"It promises to be a fun, social and enjoyable day of rugby with your mates. And all the host rugby clubs will benefit by receiving a legacy donation from Heineken.

"I have always enjoyed 10s as a format - you don't have to be as fit as for Sevens but you get a bit more ball time and space than XVs."

The Heineken 10s will be played under the rules of the Rugby Football Union, including versions of the ELVs, and the 16 host clubs will be announced in the coming weeks.

Players will be able to participate in the tournament for free, with a variety of Heineken Cup prizes up for grabs.

Heineken have also donated a significant sum of money as part of the legacy fund, with the 16 victorious teams becoming eligible for a donation to improve club facilities.

A Heineken panel, chaired by Greenwood, will be the adjudicators as to which teams will receive the donations.

More information about the Heineken 10s can be found at www.HeinekenRugby.co.uk and those interested in playing can register now by emailing [email protected]