View from The Pack

By Bill Hadgkiss

What a weekend for Brighton & Hove which was witness to one of the greatest upsets in Rugby World Cup history when Japan beat South Africa on Saturday 19 September.

The sun shone from a clear blue sky throughout the weekend and the Brighton Community Stadium was full on both days with supporters wearing their country's colours and waving thousands of national flags distributed by members of The Pack.

Pack members were ready at the stadium to help match goers
Photo credit: www.snapitnow.co.uk

The role myself and other Pack members were responsible for was to give our visiting spectators a memorable experience from the time they arrived in the city until their departure. 

Fans in the stadium
Photo credit: www.snapitnow.co.uk

I was fortunate in being based at the Stadium on both days and undertook a variety of functions including meet and greet fans arriving on the shuttle buses from the Fanzone and Park and Rides, distributing flags, duties at stadium entrance gates regarding bag checks and separating tickets for scanning, marshalling queues post-match into channels for the various Park and Ride departure points and helping spectators with restricted movement from arrival points to the stadium entrance.

There were several memorable moments. Two elderly gentlemen with walking sticks arrived on a Park and Ride bus because their lift to the Stadium had not turned up. They were quite anxious by they time they arrived. I was able to collect two wheelchairs from our information point and, with a colleague, take them to their seating area. I then arranged their return journey to the P & R after the match. 

Fans waved homemade banners and flags handed out by the Pack
Photo credit: www.snapitnow.co.uk

One Samoan spectator gave me a match ticket since his friend was unable to come and asked me to find a good home for it. I took it to the ticket office where it was passed to a very happy fan who was ticketless! 

Bill in the stadium gallery

As we were not needed during the match, we all watched from a gallery near to the Workforce Centre. During the final 15 minutes of the South Africa v Japan game and the scenes at the final whistle were incredible. Every neutral in the stadium were willing the Japanese to achieve the impossible...and of course they did!

There is no doubt at all the Brighton Community Stadium, their staff, Rugby World Cup 2015 and members of The Pack made this event truly memorable, this being acknowledged by many, many spectators that I spoke to after the match. I thoroughly enjoyed every single minute and the memories will last a long time!

Celebrating Rugby in the sunshine

Brighton & Hove celebrated in the sunshine as the long anticipated first weekend of Rugby World Cup 2015 arrived. 

As the Tournament began, the two matches played at the Brighton Community Stadium were played out to enthusiastic crowds watching from the stands and thousands more watching on a big screen on the beach. 

The seafront Fanzone proved popular throughout the weekend as fans enjoyed the action while relaxing on Brighton's famous pebbles. The Pack, some of the 6,000 volunteers selected to assist visitors, were on duty and on form.

There was also plenty to do and see on the main road running alongside the beach, with free activities to try all day. 

At one point, there was even a military horse parade. 

Only a short walk away from the Fanzone, two days of dance and music was performed in the heart of the city's theatre district on New Road, adding to the carnival feel. The Pitch Perfect festival was set up on the walking route from the train station to the Fanzone. 

Hundreds of artists shared their skills, entertaining spectators and passers by in twelve hours of performance organised especially for the Tournament weekend.

After the dramatic events of Saturday's match, which saw Japan beat the Springboks in an unexpected victory, everyone was eager to see what Sunday's match would yield. By the time the final whistle blew, the Samoans had claimed their first win of the Tournament beating USA with the result 24 -16. 

With Samoa's victory following on from Japan's triumph, both the teams who stayed as well as played in Brighton & Hove won their matches. A proud moment for the host city.  

By the end of the weekend Brighton & Hove had claimed a place in Rugby history thanks to the Brave Blossoms mighty match and the warm welcome given to Rugby World Cup 2015 by all in the city. 

The Tournament got off to a splendid start. Now all that remains is to enjoy the drama of the remaining matches as the teams battle it out to the final on Halloween.  

Photo credit: www.snapitnow.co.uk

Funzone!

The sun shone on Brighton & Hove as fans prepared for the first ever Rugby World Cup match to be played in the city on Saturday 19 September 2015.

Photo: www.snapitnow.co.uk

The Fanzone began to attract crowds from the opening hour of 11am. Throughout the day people strolled along Madiera Drive to have a go at games such as a bucking Rugby ball, a bungee run and a speed reaction test as well as being given Rugby goodies from the stalls stretched along the road. 

Photo: www.snapitnow.co.uk

Photo: BHCC Comms

The Webb Ellis Cup was on display for the first hour of the Fanzone day before heading up to the stadium to be present at the match. South Africa's John Smit, who led the Springboks to victory in Rugby World Cup 2007, was a guest at the Fanzone along with the prestigious trophy.  

Photo: BHCC Comms

Down on the pebbles, people settled in to watch the four matches taking place on the first full day of Rugby World Cup 2015. 

Photo: www.snapitnow.co.uk

Photo: www.snapitnow.co.uk

As time drew close for the South Africa v Japan match, on screen announcements advised ticketholders still watching the Ireland v Canada match to head up Madeira Drive for the shuttlebus service. The buses swiftly took the fans the 20 minute journey to the north of the city to get to the stadium on time. 

Photo: BHCC Comms

The city was a buzz with celebration and festivals. Project Zulu impressed everyone with their skills as they danced their way through the Fanzone after performing at Pitch Perfect on New Road. 

Photo: www.snapitnow.co.uk

Meanwhile the fun continued on a very warm September afternoon as crowds gathered to see the action from the stadium up the road broadcast live on the beach. Caught up in the drama of the match and the intense closing minutes of the game, the crowd in the Fanzone was transfixed by the action on screen. 

Photo: www.snapitnow.co.uk

As the sun set, the fourth and final match of the day was played out on the big screen. After Rugby history was made in Brighton & Hove with Japan's stunning win, there is still another day to enjoy in the Fanzone before the Tournament continues elsewhere.

Photo: BH Comms

Brighton & Hove's Fanzone will be open today, Sunday 20 September, from 11am to 8pm. Don't miss out! Come down to the beach today!

Come to the beach!

Brighton & Hove's official Rugby World Cup 2015 Fanzone opened last night with crowds heading to the beach to watch the opening match on the big screen. 

There was a range of activities to try and refreshments to buy in the main Fanzone area on the pebbles and along Madeira Drive.

Then as the sunset, people settled down on the pebbles to see the action live on screen.

The live feed from Twickenham showed the Opening Ceremony and England's 35 to 11 win over Fiji in the first game of the Tournament.

The Fanzone re-opens this morning at 11am. For the first hour, the prestigious Webb Ellis Cup will be on display. 

Fanzone opening times for the rest of the weekend:

Saturday September 19, 11am to 11pm
Sunday September 20, 11am to 8pm

Come along and see all the matches being played this weekend live on the big screen, including the two matches being played at the Brighton Community Stadium, South Africa v Japan at 4.45 today and Samoa v USA at noon tomorrow. 

Ticketholders can buy shuttlebus tickets to the stadium from the main office located in a portacabin on Madeira Drive. The shuttlebus runs from the Fanzone to the Stadium and back again after each Brighton match. The cost per day is £5, payable in cash only. 

Don't miss out! Come to the beach this weekend!

More information about what is happening in the city this weekend and how to join in.

Photo credits for all images on this post: www.snapitnow.co.uk

Inspiring young players

By Balfour Year 6 Tag Rugby Squad 2015 - 2016

As part of our Rugby World Cup 2015 Project we were lucky enough to be able to meet and interview Kieron Dawson, who played for Ireland in Rugby World Cup 1999.

Year 6 pupil Fin explained: “It was really interesting meeting Kieron. He told us all about his time playing Rugby. He also told us about how he prepares for a big Rugby match and what it felt like to play for your country.”

Balfour pupils with Kieron Dawson

What was it like representing your country at a Rugby World Cup?

I think it was extra special for us because my Rugby World Cup was 1999 and Ireland were based in Ireland and everywhere we went we played sports. We did a lot of school visits in preparation and the whole country was buzzing a little bit like this year, I suppose with the Tournament being based in England, so I’m sure they’ll experience the same thing. So yes, very proud, very excited, and a little bit surreal if I’m quite honest because in 1999 Rugby wasn’t long into becoming a professional sport so it felt a bit strange.

Who was your Rugby hero when you were young?

My Rugby hero was actually a guy called Ollie Campbell, who played No. 10 for Ireland, which was the position I probably wanted to play, but my age and shape didn’t really suit it. So when I was growing up Ollie Campbell because he kicked all the goals and made it all happen on the pitch, a bit like Jonny Wilkinson, and so he was my hero player.

What position did you play?

I played Open Side Flanker, which is the best position, so No. 7 in the scrum, who runs around making tackles all day, which is why I look like I do nowadays!

What advice would you give to us, as young rugby players before a big match?

I’d get lots of sleep, drink lots of water. Just prepare yourself well for the game. Enjoy it and try to learn from every game. Something will happen in every match that you can learn from. Most important thing is to enjoy it!

Big boots...and shirts...to fill

What was your biggest game?

My first game against the All Blacks. So I was 21 standing in the middle of Lansdowne Road, having dreamt about it all of my life, facing the Kaka for the first time on my first cap….That was pretty special!

Balfour Primary School has been following the preparations for the matches in Brighton & Hove. The pupils have been part of this blog's writing team. Last week Balfour Rugby coach Lee Stevenson represented the school at the Japan Welcome Ceremony. Mr Stevenson presented a card to the Japanese team from the young players at Balfour who are inspired by all those competing in the Tournament and who aim to follow in their footsteps in the years ahead. 

Tiggy from Balfour Year 6 said: "I'm really excited about the start of Rugby World Cup 2015. I can't believe that I am going to watch one of the matches at the Brighton Community Stadium - USA vs Samoa. It will amazing. We've also started training at school for the new Balfour Primary School 6 Tag Rugby squad - I hope we can be as good as the teams playing in the Tournament."

Mr Stevenson at the Japan Welcome Ceremony
with the card from his Tag Rugby team
which he presented to the Japan Team Manager

The 2015 - 2016 Balfour Year 6 Tag Rugby Squad

Welcome Japan!

The Japan team were welcomed to Brighton & Hove on Friday. 

The Welcome Ceremony which took place the Brighton Dome Theatre one week before the start of the Tournament.  The 51 players and also the management staff were presented with the official caps and participation medals. 

The Japanese team also presented the Mayor of Brighton & Hove with an unusual Japanese ornament, a large bright figurine.

The Mayor of Brighton & Hove with a gift from Japan
Photo credit: Getty Images for ER2015

Westdene Primary School boys’ choir, from Brighton, performed the RWC 2015 song “World in Union”. 

Westdene Primary School Boys' Choir from Brighton
Photo credit: Getty Images for ER2015

Afterwards the team gathered for photos in the Royal Pavilion Music Room.  The Japanese team play South Africa at 4.45pm on Saturday September 19 at the Brighton Community Stadium.  

The Japanese team in the Music Room at The Royal Pavilion
Photo credit: Getty Images for ER2015

Watch highlights from Japan's official Welcome Ceremony at the Brighton Dome.

Welcome Samoa!

The Samoan team were welcomed to Brighton & Hove on Friday. 

The Welcome Ceremony which took place the Brighton Dome Theatre one week before the start of the Tournament. The 31 players and 15 management staff were presented with the official caps and participation medals. 

The Samoan manager took to the podium to say: “Brighton reminds us so much of Samoa! You have the sun, you have the sea and you have beautiful smiling people.” The team then took to the stage to give a rousing demonstration of Samoan dance and song.  

Samaon team on stage
Photo credit: Getty Images for ER2015

Afterwards the team stopped for photos in front of the Royal Pavilion and met fans waiting to wish them well. The Samoan team play USA at 12 noon on Sunday September 20 at the Brighton Community Stadium.  

Samoan team at the Royal Pavilion
Photo credit: Getty Images for ER2015

Watch highlights from the Samoan Welcome Ceremony at the Dome.

See the Samoan team on stage as captured on a phone by one of the audience.

Rugby Activity Zone

By Mal Chumbley

Alongside the official Brighton & Hove Fanzone, the RFU and Sussex RFU will be hosting a Rugby Activity Zone. This is a chance to test skills, learn more about the game and get involved at your local club, as a player, coach, referee, volunteer or spectator.

The Fanzone operates from the evening of Friday 18 through to Sunday 20 September on the first weekend of the Tournament.

Bucking Rugby Ball - one of the activities to try in the Fanzone

The Rugby Community in Sussex are full of anticipation and excitement for this “Once in a Generation” event. Fans old and new are building up to “Get Behind England” and “Turn the Country White” campaigns “Wear The Rose”, “Every Voice Counts” and “Carry Them Home” are all about making everyone in the country a vital party of England’s success.

#weartherose

#Carrythemhome

#everyvoicecounts

For details or enquires about Rugby in Sussex contact Mal Chumbley at malchumbley@rfu.com or 07793 167 075

Fanzone on the beach

The official Rugby World Cup 2015 Fanzone will be on Brighton beach, Madeira Drive, east of the Brighton Pier. 

With a capacity of 10,000 the Fanzone offers the chance to enjoy refreshments and soak up the Tournament atmosphere. The Fanzone is free to enter. 

Brighton beach
Photo credit: Adam Bronkhorst

The Fanzone features activities from Rugby World Cup 2015 sponsors and a big screen showing all the matches played during the first weekend of the Tournament. 

The Fanzone is free to enter and the opening times are: 
• Friday September 18, 4pm to 11pm 
• Saturday September 19, 11am to 11pm 
• Sunday September 20, 11am to 8pm

Come along to the only RWC 2015 Fanzone on a beach! Relax on the pebbles and have fun on the activities on Madeira Drive. 

Rugby players on the beach

The Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour reached Brighton & Hove on Bank Holiday Monday  August 31. After a morning trip to Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, the famous Trophy was taken along to the seafront for a gathering with local Rugby players.

The Webb Ellis Cup on display

Players of all ages from Brighton Rugby Club and Hove Rugby Club came along to Yellowave Beach Sports Venue on Madiera Drive. The players had a friendly throw about on the sandy courts and took a close look at the Webb Ellis Cup.

Young players from the Brighton and Hove clubs

Brighton Blues boys with the Trophy

The next opportunity to see the Trophy will be from 10am to 12.30pm on Saturday September 19 at the official Fanzone on the beach near the Brighton Pier. The Trophy will be on display inside a viewing box on a RWC 2015 Land Rover.

More more information about the Fanzone and many other activities happening in Brighton & Hove during the first weekend of the Tournament have a look at the Fan Guide. 

Spanning the nations, rare artefacts at the museum

The Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour reached Brighton & Hove on Bank Holiday Monday August 31. Crowds gathered to see the prestigious Trophy on display at Brighton Museum & Art Gallery. 

Jacob Thomas-Brooks, aged 10, came along with his family. Jacob said: “I can’t wait until the Rugby starts, it’s going to brilliant. The Trophy was very impressive, very gold.”

Jacob, far right, with his family
and the Webb Ellis Cup

To celebrate the Trophy Tour, activities and displays were set up around the museum building. Staff looked after a range of rare objects taken out of museum storage for only one day to mark the occasion. The items were from the nations of Japan, Samoa, South Africa and USA, representing the four teams competing in Brighton & Hove during the Tournament.

Bark cloth as made in Samoa

South African beading

Visitors could see intricate South African beading, Native American Indian quills dating from the 1800s, decorative wrapping clothes called Furoshiki which are used instead of carrier bags in Japan and Tapa cloth made from the bark of the mulberry tree as found across Polynesia including Samoa.

Downstairs in the art room, children were encouraged to have a go at designing a Rugby shirt or flag for the team or teams of their choice taking part in the Tournament.

Alex Gilbert enjoyed making a Japanese inspired Rugby shirt design before going to see the Webb Ellis Cup with his mum, dad and older brother.

Alex with his Mum Gail

The Webb Ellis Cup was on display all morning before heading off to be the centre piece of a beach rugby session taking place later in the day.

The Webb Ellis Cup at Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Find out more about the amazing artefacts at the museum and exhibitions on display