University’s interim director of rugby is looking forward to exciting challenges ahead

LOUGHBOROUGH University’s interim director of rugby Alan Buzza is looking forward to the task ahead and aiming to build on Loughborough Students RFC’s recent successes.

The men’s side has consolidated its position in National One, the third tier of English rugby, and there is the now the addition of a Women’s Pre- mier 15s franchise, who will play under the Loughborough Lightning name.

He said: “Having been involved with the club for over 20 years this is the most exciting time there’s been. The impact and profile of BUCS Super Rugby has been huge and our addition to the top rank of women’s rugby is absolutely game changing.

“I couldn’t be more delighted that the University has been so supportive of us competing in the top flight of women’s rugby in the UK. We can become the best women’s rugby development centre in the world and this is a bold and brave first step towards that.

“Undoubtedly this is a new era for the women’s game here and also for the Loughborough Students club as we bring the men’s and women’s game together as one.”

“With the men’s and women’s clubs coming together under one roof, success for the women’s side in the longer term is about becoming the World’s best rugby development centre. The starting point for that would be being competitive in the top flight in our first season and creating a culture and an experience that brings people to the club.

“Success on the men’s side looks like sustaining and further developing the high quality culture and pathways for players and support staff, and finishing higher in the table in both National 1 and BUCS Super Rugby competitions.”