School of Hard Knocks
Last updated: 28th March 2008
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A ground-breaking rugby training initiative has helped 15 men in Liverpool find employment, and will be screened in a new six-part series beginning on Thursday night's Rugby Club, presented by Austin Healey.
The participants, who had never before touched a rugby ball, embarked on an intensive 16-week scheme in conjunction with the Sale Sharks, with the aim of increasing their employability through sport.
At the end of the scheme, two thirds of those involved were employed; including five who joined the armed forces. The final five are now actively seeking employment.
Sale Sharks and locally-based company Creative Training coached them in not only team-building and nutritional techniques, but also interview and presentation skills.
The attendees also participated in a training scheme with Sale players including Luke McAllister, Ben Evans and Sililo Martens before their final challenge: a match against the Army's 2nd Lancastrian regiment.
'School of Hard Knocks' coach, Chris Chudleigh, said: "It has been extremely rewarding watching the development of each and every one of the participants in this scheme. The skills learnt on the pitch are easily transferable and I'm sure The Rugby Club viewers will agree there are huge differences in the men before and after they began the scheme - they are now confident, motivated, enthusiastic men who take a real pride in themselves."
Austin Healey, former England and British Lions international, said: "I really believe that by integrating sport into your lifestyle, a person can learn life-skills that help in whatever you take on. Watching the guys grow, not only as players but off the field as well, has been a fantastic experience to be part of."
Watch the 15 men's progress at the School of Hard Knocks each week on the Rugby Club.
| LESSON | DESCRIPTION | LINK |
| SIX | The big match finally arrives. How will the lads fare? | CLICK HERE |
| FIVE | A pep talk from the Sharks | CLICK HERE |
| FOUR | Army training and some beach rugby | CLICK HERE |
| THREE | A new face joins the team | CLICK HERE |
| TWO | A spot of anger management and a visit to Sale | CLICK HERE |
| ONE | The lads' first experience of rugby | CLICK HERE |
| INTRO | Austin sets out the School timetable | CLICK HERE |
- Video
Comments
Rod Cope says...
Firstly, I find it hard to believe this is the first post. But then I might not have done this if she had not deleted last weeks Rugby Club and I had to watch it on-line. Secondly, good luck to them. As someone who works with young adults I am certain Rugby can be a real opportunity for people to advance themselves. Thirdly, will we see more?
Posted 20:28 2nd April 2008
Graham Turnbull says...
It would be nice if all the Premiership clubs backed such projects in their areas. Well done to all who gave their time
Posted 14:01 2nd April 2008
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