CRFU

“Quality First Coaching Through the Lens of SEND”

September 4, 2025 by Bill Hooper

Cornwall RFU have partnered with Coach Centred to provide an interactive online webinar

“Quality First Coaching Through the Lens of SEND”

This session will explore inclusive coaching practices, with a specific focus on supporting neurodivergent participants through proactive, quality-first approaches.

Date: Wednesday 10th September
Time: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
https://www.coachcentered.com/coach-development/#Webinars
Cost: £23.99
Cornwall RFU will refund 100% of the fee for all Cornwall Rugby Union coaches who attend the live session.

CRFU Handbook 25/26 season

September 3, 2025 by Bill Hooper

The current handbook can be accessed here.

CRFU Development Day 12th October

September 1, 2025 by Bill Hooper

Following the success of last year’s development day, we have organised a variety of courses for this year’s event. These will include both CRFU and RFU courses.

To book a place on the RFU courses, please use the GMS system.

For CRFU courses, please register using the links provided below. https://forms.gle/GahCqAt78179jKn38 – First Aid https://forms.gle/fkDxK2YqwwfE2rVR7 – CRFU Coaching Clinic https://forms.gle/wCb28K34LSM8XsDLA – GMS Sessions https://forms.gle/e3LNqE2eHWuYZFcj6 – Ready 2 ref

Yours in rugby

Daubroy Game Development Lead

Important Information Ahead of New Season

August 29, 2025 by Bill Hooper

Community Game Update RWC Edition

August 28, 2025 by Bill Hooper

Vacancy for Cornwall Senior XV Team Manager

August 16, 2025 by Bill Hooper

Vacancy – Cornwall Senior Rugby XV Team Manager – Voluntary

Cornwall RFU are seeking to appoint a well organised motivated individual to manage and support our Senior Men’s Rugby XV.

The principle elements of the role will involve:

• Assisting in additional fixtures outside of the Championship campaign

• Overseeing the County Championship campaign (May-June)

• Liaising with host clubs (Home fixtures) to ensure that fixtures are delivered to a high standard

• Work closely with Senior Team Coaches, Selectors and Team Physios

• Work closely with other CRFU post holders such as Commercial Development

• Plan and organise travel and accommodation for away fixtures

• Assist with the management of the various squad selections that are established during the season

The postholder will report directly to the Chair of Representative Rugby through the committee structure. These meetings are held on a monthly basis (Sept-June).

Individuals are invited to submit their expression of interest and outline their relevant experience by email to Kevin Thomas (Chair of Representative Rugby). kjc.thomas@aol.com

If you feel you have the required skills set to achieve the above and the ability to be an ambassador of this iconic brand, we would be delighted to hear from you.

In addition, please feel free to have an informal chat with Kevin on 07565 156469 to discuss and ask any questions regarding any aspects of the role.

Closing date for Expressions of Interest 25th August.

Successful Coaching Conference

July 13, 2025 by Bill Hooper

On July 12th, Cornwall RFU hosted its annual high-performance Coaching Conference at Truro School. This immersive half-day event, from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM, was designed to prepare coaches for the upcoming season. Coaches from across the county attended the conference.

Jon Bates from Coaching Centred facilitated the event, and Allan, Gavin and Jo from the Cornish Pirates coaching team delivered the practical activity. Additionally, the former Director of Rugby for the Cornish Pirates, Ian Davis, provided valuable insights into communication and the session design.

The conference included sessions focused on:

– **Team Mindset, Strategy & Turnover Gains**: Coaches explored how to convert possession shifts into tangible advantages in the game.

– **Phase Defence Insights**: Emphasis was placed on adapting defensive principles based on pitch location and the dynamics surrounding the ruck.

– **Session Design for Decision-Making**: Interactive discussions aimed to refine techniques for session progression that enhance players’ decision-making capabilities.

These sessions were structured to translate directly into improved training designs and effective game-day strategies.

The event fostered peer-to-peer learning and reinforced the importance of continuous improvement through collaboration.

Stay tuned for further game development activities.

RFU Community Game Update – July

July 9, 2025 by Bill Hooper

Two stalwarts of Cornish rugby honoured at CRFU AGM

June 26, 2025 by Bill Hooper

The AGM of the CRFU was held at Camborne RFC on Wednesday 25th June.

CRFU President Andy Reed welcomed everybody to the meeting.

A minute’s silence was observed to remember those who have sadly passed away during the past year.

At the conclusion of the formal part of the meeting Andy thanked everyone for their hard work over the past 12 months.

He then went on to make presentations to two stalwarts of Cornish rugby.

Alan Milliner, Alan has completed 10 years as our rep on the RFU Council and will step down from the role at the end of July.

For his service in this role and countless others, including Wooden Spoon Cornwall, Alan was made a Life Member of the CRFU.

CRFU President Andy Reed presents Alan Milliner with his CRFU Shield as a Life Member

The second award, that of Honorary Vice President of the CRFU was made to Stuart Hood, Stuart has been involved with the CRFU for 19 years, notably as Team Manager for Cornwall Clubs XV.

Stuart also received a county shirt presented by the Chair of Representative Rugby Kevin Thomas.

Kevin Thomas presents a Cornwall shirt to Stuart Hood.

Also at the meeting were representatives from Trelawny’s Army, Phil and Marina Trevarton, they are pictured with our three Under 20 players who have been selected for the South West for the upcoming divisional fixtures. The players are Dan Bennett, Ayden Earnshaw and Rhys Bowery. TASC, alongside the CRFU are generously assisting our Under 20’s with travel expenses to attend the South West trials, training and matches.

Barry Ninnes – R.I.P.

June 17, 2025 by Bill Hooper

It is with great sadness that we have to day learned of the passing of Barry Ninnes.

Barry played for St. Ives & Coventry, whilst at county level he represented both Cornwall & Warwickshire. In 1971 he played for England against Wales in Cardiff for his one cap.

1969 saw Barry part of the Cornwall side that lost the county final to Lancashire at Redruth 11-9.

In all Barry played 24 times for Cornwall between 1967-74.

We send our condolences to Barry’s family and friends at this sad time.

Below is a tribute from St. Ives RFC.

Tribute to Barry Ninnes – A St Ives Rugby Legend

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Barry Ninnes, the last St Ives player to represent England. Barry passed away last week, leaving behind a proud legacy and a lasting impact on our club and the wider rugby community.

Barry began his rugby journey at St Ives RFC, where his talent, passion, and determination quickly set him apart. His remarkable ability on the field earned him a move to Coventry and, most notably, the honour of wearing the England shirt – a true testament to his skill and dedication.

He remains a source of immense pride for everyone associated with St Ives RFC. To this day, he is remembered not just for his achievements, but for the character and sportsmanship he brought to the game.

Our thoughts are with Barry’s family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will always be part of the St Ives rugby family.

Rest in peace, Barry.