IRB and RFU to join ESTO for Rugby Expo workshop

The role of synthetic turf in both professional and community rugby will be highlighted during workshops presented by the European Synthetic Turf Organisation in conjunction with the International Rugby Board and Rugby Football Union during Rugby Expo 2011 at Twickenham on November 23 and 24.

The sessions will consider developments in synthetic turf technology and the ways that appropriate systems can be applied in the uniquely demanding environment of rugby.

Synthetic turf can enable clubs to maximise the use of facilities, increasing participation and maximising training and coaching time. Yet many club officials remain unsure about which systems are appropriate to rugby and the options open to them.

The workshop aims to deliver clarity and help clubs make informed choices about their use of artificial turf.

Steve Griffiths of the International Rugby Board who will take part in the workshop said:

“The opportunity to present at Rugby Expo provides an excellent platform to share debate and discuss a range of issues affecting both the professional and grass roots game. With the developments in artificial turf having the potential to create real positive changes to clubs at all levels, I look forward to working with ESTO and the RFU to present the latest research and result and help clubs looking at the potential of moving to artificial turf.”

Nigel Fletcher, Chairman of the European Synthetic Turf Organisation which works to promote and educate all applications of synthetic turf said, “One of ESTO’s key objectives is to inform clubs, communities, government organisations on the merits both on and off the pitch regarding synthetic turf. This includes its role in increasing playing and participation, supporting healthy lifestyles, increasing community and club development opportunities and having better playing conditions guaranteed all year round. Rugby Expo will provide a great opportunity to share this message with both professional and grass roots rugby clubs.”

The Synthetic Turf Workshop is sure to be one of the highlights of Rugby Expo 2011 and will run on both days.

It is one in a comprehensive series of workshops designed to deliver practical and valuable information, insight and advice ..

Each workshop will be led by experts able to draw on wide ranging experience inside and beyond the world of rugby, to deliver real value.

Workshops will cover subjects including:
Sponsorship: How can rugby widen its sponsorship net by becoming more attractive to partner brands?
Building for Success: Designing and financing the ideal stadium for today’s pro rugby clubs.
Retail: How to create and implement successful merchandising strategies on match day and beyond.
Social media: Harnessing the power of social media for more effective and profitable communication.
Ticketing and membership: Understanding the technology and strategies for building membership and filling your ground.
Elite Performing Teams: On the field, in the dressing room and in the back office – How to build and motivate elite teams to deliver success across every facet of a club’s activities.
Sports science: An introduction to the latest equipment, technology and thinking.

Workshops will be repeated a number of times throughout the day, enabling delegates to create their own conference schedule, according to their individual interests.