FIVE REASONS THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING
1/ YOU'LL CHANGE A KID'S LIFE. EVERY WEEKEND
Hackney RFC isn't just a rugby club — it's where young people discover confidence, belonging and resilience. As a coach, you're the person who sparks that. The try they score on a muddy Sunday morning? You made that possible. That's a legacy that lasts.
2/ YOU'LL GAIN A COMMUNITY YOU DIDN'T KNOW YOU NEEDED
Fellowship is Life isn't just a slogan — it's what our coaches live by. You'll join a tight-knit team of people who show up for each other as much as they show up for the players. Lifelong friendships start here. Ask anyone who's been here more than a season.
3/ FREE QUALIFICATIONS. REAL SKILLS. A CAREER BOOSTING CV
We'll fund your RFU Level 1 coaching badge — a nationally recognised qualification at no cost to you. Add first aid, safeguarding, and leadership skills to the mix, and you leave every season more qualified than you arrived. People hire coaches. Employers respect them too.
4/ BE PART OF SOMETHING EAST LONDON GENUINELY NEEDS
Hackney RFC has been rooted in this community for 60 years. When you coach here, you're not filling a rota slot — you're actively helping shape an inclusive, diverse club that gives every child, regardless of background, a seat at the table. That matters far beyond the final whistle.
5/ YOU'LL NEVER COACH ALONE. WE BACK YOU FROM DAY ONE
Come in with zero experience and leave your first session buzzing. You'll be mentored by experienced coaches, supported every step along the RFU coaching pathway, and welcomed into a team that genuinely wants you to thrive. No one gets thrown in the deep end here.
NO MORE EXCUSES
We've heard every reason people talk themselves out of it. Here's the truth behind the doubt.
"I've never played rugby"
No rugby background needed. Your people skills matter far more than your knowledge of line-outs.
"I don't have any coaching experience"
Neither did most of our best coaches when they started. We train you from scratch.
"I don't have time"
Many coaches just give a few hours on a Sunday morning. Even that transforms a child's week.
"Coaches are all ex-players, I won't fit in"
We actively want more women, and people of Black and South Asian heritage. Your perspective and presence are exactly what this club needs.
"THE BEST COACHES AREN'T THE ONES WHO KNOW THE MOST ABOUT RUGBY. THEY'RE THE ONES WHO KNOW HOW TO MAKE A KID FEEL TEN FEET TALL!"​
- HACKNEY RFC COACHING TEAM
ATTRIBUTES THAT MAKE A GREAT COACH
L
Listen
Great coaches hear what players aren't saying as much as what they are saying
E
Empathise
Every child on that pitch has a story. Meeting them where they are changes everything.
T
Build Trust
When players trust their coach, they take risks. That's where growth lives.
C
Communicate
Clear, energetic, positive communication creates a session that kids run home to tell their parents about.
E
Enthuse
Your energy is contagious. Bring it, and the whole pitch comes alive.