A former Worcester Warriors and international rugby star is working to get Worcestershire children into rugby.

World-renowned rugby training programs Rugbytots and RugbyKids have recruit former international player, James Johnston, a former tighthead prop for Premiership clubs Saracens, Harlequins, Wasps and Warriors, to their coaching team.

Johnston, who represented Samoa in the Rugby World Cup, is known for his impressive career in top-tier competitions and his mastery in the scrum.

 

 

Read more: Worcester MP Robin Walker speaks on Worcester Warriors

 

 

Johnston first got into coaching children while he was playing in France, having had stints at Brive, Rouen and Nice.

The Premiership winner has joined a team sharing their extensive knowledge with young athletes in Worcestershire.

Rugbytots is the leading UK rugby play program for children aged one-and-a-half to seven, focusing on fun, skill development, and inclusivity in a safe, supportive environment.

RugbyKids is the first rugby-specific schools program for key stage two children aged seven to 11, holding non-contact rugby PE classes and after-school clubs to make the sport more accessible for children from all backgrounds.

Head coach of Rugbytots and RugbyKids Worcestershire, Eliot Langfield said: "We are delighted to welcome James Johnston to the team.

"His vast experience and passion for our wonderful game will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of athletes in our community."

As a coach Johnston will conduct non-contact sessions for children aged one-and-a-half to seven, introducing them to the basics of rugby in a fun, supportive atmosphere.

Beyond his coaching role, Johnston will bring the sport to nurseries, pre-schools, and primary schools, leading PE classes and organising after-school clubs for reception to year six students.

Johnston said: "I am excited to join Rugbytots and have the opportunity to share my love for rugby with the children of Worcestershire.

"Rugby has been a central part of my life, and I am eager to inspire the next generation of players, instilling in them not only a passion for the game but also important values like teamwork and respect, while having a lot of fun in the process."

Families, nurseries and schools interested in sessions led by Johnston and other professional coaches can visit Rugbytots and RugbyKids websites.