Jersey Reds Minis and Juniors got quite a surprise at yesterday's training session when former England captain and 2003 World Cup winner Matt Dawson MBE dropped in to give them a few tips and handed out signed Jersey Electricity mini rugby balls to over 100 delighted youngsters.
The former Northampton Saints and Wasps fly-half, familiar to many today as team captain on TV’s Question of Sport, was in the Island to present the Jersey Construction Council Awards at the Hotel de France on Saturday evening. His visit was sponsored by Jersey Electricity and on Sunday he kindly agreed to visit Jersey’s youngest rugby enthusiasts being put through their paces at St Peter’s before his plane departed.
JE, sponsors of Jersey Reds this year, had the mini balls specially made for the occasion and Matt had signed them all before delighting the boys – and their parents – throwing the balls to all the Minis and Juniors and demonstrating a few of his old skills.
He spent over two hours at the club, signing countless shirts and boots and being photographed with lots of proud mums and dads. He also joined the Under-13s before their match against Abingdon and watched the first 20 minutes from the touchline. He later tweeted: Just on way home from @buildjersey dinner and enjoying time@jerseyrfc Thx everyone for a great time. #seeusoon
