Rugby team meets World Cup star

University of Buckingham students had a chance to meet English World Cup winner Lawrence Dallaglio at Stoke Mandeville Stadium and take pictures with the Webb Ellis Trophy.

The rugby team was invited to attend the RWC 2015 Touch Exhibition at Stoke Mandeville Stadium last month.

The invitation came off the back of the work the University have done with the RFU over the past 3 years in establishing a club at the University and attending a series of development festivals around the country where our students could learn to get to grips with the game. The Touch Exhibition at Stoke Mandeville Stadium was part of the Rugby World Cup Tour that is preceding the World Cup that starts later this month in England, with Milton Keynes one of the host cities.

The University was permitted to take 12 players and three spectators or coaching staff on the day who were able to take part in a series of touch rugby matches against other local sides. The focus for the day was very much on fun and enjoyment and this was epitomised by The University of Buckingham students who were praised by RFU Development Officer Alan Lane for approaching the day with the right attitude.

After the group of male and female students had completed their matches they were afforded the chance to meet an English World Cup winner in Lawrence Dallaglio and have their picture taken with the famous Webb Ellis Trophy.

Callum Roberts, Assistant Sports Officer, University of Buckingham, said: “It was a rare opportunity for the University students, one that is not easily topped. They really enjoyed their day.”