Rugby Programme Coordinator | Rugby Coach
- AGE: 35
- NATIONALITY: British
- HOMETOWN: Basildon
- NICKNAME: Jonesy
BIO
Ryan began his ‘rugby journey’ when selected to play for Essex Schools U15’s. He’d later join local team Rochford Hundred Rugby Club continuing to gain his passion for the sport, playing many seasons for the club, as well as for Essex and Eastern Counties. Ryan would also complete six playing seasons at Thurrock RFC and two summer seasons at Vail Rugby Club in Colorado.
Ryan attended SEEVIC College where he was part of the Silver medal winning Sevens team at the British Association of Sport in Colleges Competition.
A student at De Montfort University, Ryan gained a Physical Education and History degree. He was a member of the Southern England Student Sports Association Championship winning team, and was University Rugby Chairman.
‘Mr Jones’ currently teaches PE, Psychology and Health & Social Care at The Gateway Academy in Tilbury [Essex]. Indeed it was Ryan who initiated the school’s partnership with Bhubesi Pride in 2010, overseeing its growing international link with Naranbhai Primary in Uganda.
In 2011 Ryan completed the 7-day Carpathian Mountain Trek to raise funds for the WSPA and was a Gamesmaker at the London 2012 Paralympic Games, supporting Wheelchair Rugby competition athletes.
COACHING, TEACHING, PLAYING HIGHLIGHTS
- 13 years experience teaching rugby and coaching school rugby teams
- Coached Gateway Academy U14 Boys to victory in the 2011 Essex Cup
- Delivery of various adult coaching clinics
- RFU Level 1 referee
PERSONAL GOAL
“To reach out, and make a long-term difference, to as many African children as possible.”
BEST WITNESSED RUGBY MOMENT
“Seeing my Gateway Academy team win the Essex Cup! The context of our catchment – and having only played rugby competitively for 4 years – was an absolute triumph over adversity!”
Personal sponsors
The Ski Company
