Rugby Union

“Professional rugby can be a pressured world, and in my experience, particularly while at Wasps, chaplains can really help. They provide an independent ear, and are a good place to get confidential counsel and advice.  It is an important role.” Matt Dawson, England & British Lions

The past 10 years has seen significant growth within chaplaincy provision in Rugby Union, and most Premier and RaboDirect Pro12 Leagues now have Sports Chaplaincy UK chaplains. There are also many others across the UK at semi-professional & amateur level. In England Sports Chaplaincy UK offer an official pastoral support network for the RFU Elite Officials.

On the wider RU scene Sports Chaplaincy UK provided official chaplaincy at the IRB U19 World Championship in Belfast in 2007, the Junior World Championship in Wales in 2008, and the Women’s World Cup in Guildford in 2010. In addition four Sports Chaplaincy UK chaplains were involved in the chaplaincy support team at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Over the years a working relationship has developed with most of the home unions, professional league organisations, and the players’ associations. Sports Chaplaincy UK also enjoys the backing of many high profile individuals within the game such as Ian McGeechan and Damian Hopley.

The work of Dave Chawner as full time Pastoral Support Director for Rugby Union from 2007-2011 gave significant impetus to this development and offered support to chaplains and clubs. Sports Chaplaincy UK are now looking to create a funding package to allow the continuation of this role.  The ultimate aim is to grow this UK-wide network of pastoral and spiritual support within Rugby Union so that it becomes integral to the game at every level.