"I Wanna Be In That Number!" George Furbank and the Saints Grant Behind The Scenes Access For Mintridge Schools
"I Wanna Be In That Number!"
George Furbank and the Saints Grant Behind The Scenes Access For Mintridge Schools
“The boys had the best morning today. They came back buzzing (as well as our headteacher) and were so pleased with the opportunity. Your hospitality was so appreciated.
”
We thought we would share why the Mintridge team received that message a few days ago, so grab yourself a cup of tea, sit back and enjoy our short blog on what led Houghton County Primary School and Hopping Hill Primary School to the gates of the cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens.
We are proud to call Northampton Saints and England Rugby’s George Furbank a proud Mintridge Foundation Ambassador and we want young people to not only see him in their school environment to hear his story to the top of the game but equally to see first-hand what it is like in training and be granted behind the scenes access.
As the students sat down by the tunnel to enjoy the Saints Captain’s Run on Thursday 28th April, Director of Rugby, Chris Boyd came over to shake the young pupils’ hands, what a privilege and opportunity to be in such esteemed company and welcomed with such open arms. Packed lunches were put on hold as the children were engrossed by everything around them!
The players made their way out of the tunnel for their final run through before playing Harlequins the following evening. There was so much going on; on the pitch there were line outs, kicking and set plays while off it, the marketing team was capturing drone footage and the kit manager was checking the final items ahead of the match. Maria kindly shared what her role involved in hospitality on match days and thank you very much to Kevin the kit manager who kindly shared his insight and answered questions from the children before taking everyone on a tour of the changing rooms and through the tunnel.
It really was access all areas and being able to understand the culture that the coaching staff have instilled in the players was very special – ideas that the children can transfer into their everyday lives in sport and beyond!
It wasn’t long before George was able to join us pitch side and share more about what the team have been going through in the morning. He was on hand to answer some brilliant questions before signing lots of autographs alongside the other players like International Greats – Dan Biggar & Courtney Lawes.
“I have got 5 autographs, 2 high fives AND I touched the grass. ”
For those that follow us on social media, you might have seen us share how ecstatic we were to see that on Superhero Day at school back in March, one student dressed as George Furbank highlighting the power of sporting role models! We were determined to link the two of them up in person and to align him with his superhero! It happened, and we couldn’t be happier and to top it off – George shared his England training top with him which we know will be cherished forever. George, thank you for going above and beyond as an Ambassador, using your platform for the greatest social impact possible!
“I have never seen my son so happy, he said that he had the best day of his life. What an absolute legend George (Furbank) is. He has made one kid so happy!”
We just want to be able to repeat this over, and over again! What a great way to bring a very special week to a close.
“The children came back buzzing. They loved getting behind the scenes access to Franklin’s Gardens and meeting the players. As always, thanks to you and the team! It is much appreciated.
”
What a nail biting match it was on Friday and the Mintridge mentees were obviously the lucky mascot with a 32-31 victory (congratulations to George contributing to the scoresheet with a great try too).
Thank you very much to Maria Shemilt and the team at Northampton Saints for granting us the opportunity – it is something these children will never forget and take forward with them helping to raise aspirations and show what is possible!
If you would like to learn more about George Furbank and the programmes that he delivers with schools, please contact Katie Smith.
The Mintridge Foundation is a registered charity dedicated to enhancing life skills in young people through sport. We provide a support network for young people by harnessing the power of positive sporting role models. The Mintridge Foundation assists young people of all ages, abilities and physical capabilities to develop confidence and resilience, and creates awareness of the importance of mental and physical wellbeing through sport.
Our team of Ambassadors - Olympians, Paralympians and other professional sports stars from over 20 sports, both team and individual - work with young people in schools, clubs and academies across the UK. Starting with visits including assemblies, coaching clinics and classroom sessions tailored to each organisation’s requirements, our ambassadors can then provide one- on- one remote mentoring in a safeguarded environment, delivered via technology to build a lasting legacy for individuals.
The Mintridge Foundation’s successes demonstrate the incredible power of sport; from a mentee’s selection to represent Great Britain in their chosen field to enabling disabled children to find confidence and happiness just through participation. Understanding life after sport, we also support our Ambassadors in their transition from active sport to the next stage of their careers.
If you would like to understand more about our mentoring programmes with elite athletes and how they can support the young people at your school or club, please contact Katie Smith.
If you are considering supporting the Mintridge Foundation as a business, organisation or as an individual, head to our SUPPORT US page below.
The Mintridge Foundation
Unit 4, Shieling Court
Northfolds Road
Corby
Northants
NN18 9QD
Tel: +44 (0) 1536 447106
www.mintridgefoundation.org.uk
