HITZ Programme

Inspiring communities through rugby

Using the power of rugby and the appeal of the Premiership Rugby Clubs, the England team and the Rugby Football Union in partnership with the Metropolitan Police, Active Communities Network, Rugby Football Foundation and Wooden Spoon, the HITZ Programme targets some of the most disadvantaged areas in London with plans to expand across the country.

A new and progressive high profile programme that is based in the heart of inner city estates targeting young people at risk of exclusion and anti social behaviour. Introducing them to Tag Rugby, Touch Rugby and contact rugby as a means to engage, empower and raise aspirations. As a team sport, rugby can successfully breakdown traditional class barriers and perceptions of the types of people that play, and allows interaction between individuals from different backgrounds and all generations to work together towards a common goal.

Combining the unique ethos of rugby with the sport's leading brands and players, the HITZ Programme provides young people in some of the UK's most disadvantaged communities with personal, social and workforce development opportunities, educational support, vocational training and volunteering options.

The HITZ Programme is supported by match-funding and expertise from a number of partners including Active Communities Network, Metropolitan Police Service, Rugby Football Union and Wooden Spoon.

This programme is expected to commence in September 2011.

For more details please visit the Hitz website on www.hitzrugby.com