Welcome to the TRT

Gary Townsend
Little did Gary know when he donated a bag of Tag Rugby kit to our Chairman in 2002 that the story of TRT would pan out as it has and less than ten years later the initiative would reach out to introduce over 20,000 children to rugby in a fun and inclusive way. Knowing Gary and having seen him on Tours in all our key destinations it is his passion for inclusive and fun coaching techniques that has fuelled his involvement and significant influence in TRT. His role at the RFU is incredibly demanding of his time, yet he always finds time to help where he can.

Steve Pope
Steve is the Director of Club Rugby at Blackheath RFC from National League one. He has played professionally and has represented the Barbarians on many occasions. Having worked at a Director of Youth he is passionate about TRT’s work both in the UK and around the World. He has toured with the Trust to Zambia, Romania and Mexico. He has also co-ordinated a programme with the London Leisure college that has seen students Tour to Zambia and Uganda with the Trust as part of a personal development and leadership programme. Steve continues to support the Trust with undying energy and passion.

Catherine Spencer
With 58 international caps to her name, a player that needs no introduction. A role model for women in rugby in this country, Spence has led her country to 6 Nations glory and played senior level rugby at Bristol for many years. Introduced to the sport at a young age, she brings a real passion for rugby to everything she does. Joining us on Tour in Uganda in 2009 is something she still talks very fondly of … and the Ugandans regularly remind us of her promise to return when her playing and training schedule provides enough time.