Long Eaton set world record
Long Eaton RFC’s attempt to get the most people at a rugby training session saw them break the world record with 999 at the club for training, including England Head Coach, Eddie Jones, on Sunday 19 September.
The Guinness World Record for a single training session stood at 720 in Japan and Long Eaton took it to 999 by adding to their 500+ playing numbers with family members, friends and players from Wasps, Leicester Tigers and Nottingham.
It’s a real change from just under 20 years ago when they had only 22 players, one coach and a small overdraft. Chris Brookes, their current chair and development manager, as well as RFU Council member for Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire & Derbyshire, and a group of other former players, turned their fortunes around.
They now have three men’s teams, occasional Vets, a ladies’ team and girls’ teams at U13, U15 and U18 and thriving Colts, youth and minis. The world record was part of a fundraising effort to provide a clubhouse extension next spring, with approximately £10,000 being raised on the day.
Chris Brookes said: “I am truly staggered how the club and community came together for the record. It shows that our great sport is a fantastic example of the power of rugby union and its communities. As we always say, its more than just sport.”
England men’s head coach Eddie Jones added: “It was great to be invited to Long Eaton to be part of this achievement of breaking the Guinness World Record. The club is an example of what makes our grassroots game so special, not only does it provide a great environment for people to play rugby but also plays a big role in the local community.
“I’d like to congratulate everyone involved on this achievement and wish them all the best with their fundraising efforts.”
RFU President, HH Jeff Blackett, added: “Congratulations to all involved at Long Eaton RFC for setting a new Guinness World Record during their fundraising event. It was a tremendous effort and a reflection of their ambition and commitment to expand the club still further after an impressive decade of growth.
“Having almost a thousand players at a single training session is the perfect way to celebrate rugby’s full return this season. It has been fantastic to see so many players, coaches, match officials and volunteers enjoying being back together at a rugby club which is a real hub for the community.”
Anyone wishing to donate £10.00 can text RUGBY to 70480
