WITH the Six Nations in full swing, rugby mania is sweeping the nation.
And what better way to celebrate than entering a contest to win a training session with a former England player?
James Haskell has teamed up with Greene King pubs to be its Proud To Pitch In ambassador.
The rugby union star made 77 appearances for England, and captained Wasps RFC. He also played for the British & Irish Lions in 2017.
The scheme sees sporting clubs able to apply for grants of up to £3,000.
The funding comes from people buying pints of Greene King IPA – the brewer will donate 10p from each drink sold at participating pubs, up to £500,000.
To celebrate, Greene King is arranging for James to showcase his skills and share tips on how to maximise sporting community and team spirit to enhance the experience of playing grassroot sports.
James said: “Local clubs are an essential part of the sporting landscape here in the UK. They’re the best place to spot future talent, and what’s more, they have a profound impact on mental and physical wellbeing in the local community.
“I’m so excited to be involved with the Greene King IPA Proud to Pitch In initiative and look forward to seeing how these grants help clubs in dire need of further funding. I also cannot wait to be digging my boots out again and hopefully sharing some advice and knowledge to whichever deserving club wins.”
Will Hemmings, Greene King Brewing & Brands marketing director said: “Here at Greene King, we know just how important local sport is to our communities and how our pubs are so often the meeting place of choice for a post-match pint.
“We’re committed to doing everything we can to ensure grassroots sports can flourish not just for the physical benefits, but for the community spirit it delivers.
“To support our Greene King IPA Proud to Pitch In scheme, we have launched the chance for clubs to experience just how an elite level athlete approaches his craft. The winning club will be able to learn directly from James how to get the most out of playing sports, whether that be physically or mentally.”
To win the training session with James Haskell, adult clubs must visit https://www.greeneking-pubs.co.uk/ and head to the Proud To Pitch In section before the end of the month. The winners will be announced in early March.
They can also apply for grant funding at the same time.
