New Rugby Development Officer Appointed as Deutsche Bank
Renews Sponsorship
The Jersey Rugby Development Programme has received a boost with
Deutsche Bank committing to a further two-year
sponsorship arrangement, coinciding with the appointment of new
Rugby Development Officer David Felton.
Felton replaces David McCormack, his former
Jersey 1st XV colleague who is stepping down to return to full-time
teaching. In his new role, Felton will be assisted by fully
qualified members of a dedicated development team.
Felton has enjoyed a successful career playing for JRFC, having
made over 150 appearances for the side over a career spanning nine
years. He has also been a community rugby coach for two
years.
At the same time, having initially agreed a two-year sponsorship
in 2012, Deutsche Bank has agreed a new deal that will build on the
previous successful partnership and see the company support the
Programme for a further two years until 2016.
The Rugby Development Programme is intended to develop all forms
of rugby within primary and secondary schools in Jersey, with a
central objective to make rugby more accessible to all areas of the
Island community. Over the course of the past two years, around 200
young rugby players have taken part in a series of Rugby Camps
during half-term breaks.
Cliff Chipperfield, Chairman of the Jersey Rugby
Development Committee, said:
"We are delighted that we are able to build on the success of the
past two years and plan strongly for the future, thanks to Deutsche
Bank's long-term support. Our aim is to enthuse and encourage young
islanders to get involved in rugby whilst identifying potential
talent and much has been achieved under David McCormack's guidance
over the past two years. With David Felton now in place, we are
looking to grow the programme even further and concentrate on
certain areas - for instance in the number of girls playing
rugby."
Mark Osment, Head of Financial Intermediaries,
Deutsche Bank Channel Islands, said:
"The Rugby Development Programme has been a real success story
over the past two years having involved hundreds of pupils from
right across the island, and we are pleased to be able to renew our
sponsorship so we can ensure the programme continues to have an
impact in the island. As well as identifying talent and building
rugby skills, the initiatives organised through the programme allow
pupils to develop their team skills and self-confidence through
sport."
