Sale Sharks Foundation has introduced more than 1,900 young people to our sport through the Project Rugby programme during the 2025/26 season.
The award-winning programme, delivered in partnership with Gallagher UK and the RFU, was created to introduce as many young people as possible to rugby, allowing them to reap the benefits of playing.
From fair play to team work, listening and learning, rugby teaches essential skills that young people will take through life. It builds respect, discipline, determination and integrity.
Through fun, inclusive sessions in schools, Sale Sharks Foundation has delivered the programme across the North West, including in Greater Manchester and Bolton, helping to break down barriers and inspire participation.
“Rugby has become my favourite sport, and I plan to continue playing and improving my game,” one participant shared. “In addition to being committed to playing rugby, I am also doing exceptionally well in school, being told that I am reflecting on a positive attitude to learning.
“I enjoyed playing it at school and when the opportunity came for me to attend the trial training, I jumped at it without thinking twice and (when I play) I have been told I have come out of my shell, and that makes a difference in my game.”
Through strong links with local clubs, the Foundation has supported participants to take their next steps in the game. This includes opportunities to attend training sessions and play fixtures in a club environment. One example is Bolton Amazons, whose girls’ section has grown to around 50 players aged 11-18 across four age groups.
“These girls now have the opportunity to take part in regular playing opportunities with and against other clubs in the North West of England and are going from strength to strength,” Jo Turner, a representative from Bolton Amazons, said.
To round off the season, pupils from Didsbury High School represented the programme at Twickenham, taking part in a Project Rugby touch tournament with other schools from different Project Rugby areas. They then had the opportunity to watch the PREM Rugby final between Northampton Saints and Exeter Chiefs.
Since its launch in 2017, Project Rugby has successfully introduced more than 140,000 new people to the sport, with many going on to playing regularly and joining a local club.
As we now look ahead to the 2026/27 season, we’re excited to continue introducing more young people to rugby. If you know someone who would like to get involved, or a school interested in Project Rugby delivery, please contact foundation@salesharks.com
