The Four Home Countries are working with the British & Irish Lions to put in place an impact programme. One of the key initiatives is a British & Irish Lions Ambassadors programme, (two from each Home Nation), between 18-21 years, to travel to New Zealand to research how to keep more youth players in the game. 5 Irish applications will be chosen to go forward to the selection day on 29th April when one Ambassador from Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales will be chosen to make the traveling party.
The 4 Home Union Ambassadors will join the tour in New Zealand, hosted by the Lions, where they will get to meet local rugby clubs to share experiences of the youth game. They will also get to watch the first Test and be involved in the media side of the Tour, being mentored by the Lions communication team. Ambassadors will be asked to record and share their experiences through social media – both on Tour and with the Irish Rugby community when they return.
Please see link in relation to Lions Rugby ‘Pick of the Pride’ campaign, http://www.lionsrugby.com/learning/pick-of-the-pride.php#.WN5vOlKZO8V
We would urge you to consider club members (player, coach, official or volunteer) who would be suitable for this project and encourage them to make their application through the Lions Rugby website at the link above. This will be a great opportunity to learn how to keep young people in the game by gathering experiences not only from the traveling nations but also by learning from New Zealand rugby players and clubs. There will also be a chance for Irish clubs to learn more about youth rugby when the Ambassador returns.
The closing date is April 16th.
