WE represent 50 former Blackheath Rugby Club players – the world’s oldest open club – including Doug Hursey, President of Kent. We write in response to recent bonuses paid to RFU CEO Bill Sweeney. Collectively, we have played and coached rugby at all levels – from international to veterans, from England age groups to minis, with some of us employed by the RFU. We remain deeply involved in the game nationwide.
While we recognise rugby’s challenges in recent years and acknowledge we may not have all the facts, the mismanagement by the RFU Board, Chair,...