Business Details
Your Premier Rugby Club in Preston
Established in 1869, Preston Grasshoppers Rugby Football Club has been a cornerstone of rugby in Lancashire for over 150 years. Our club combines a rich heritage with a forward-looking approach to player development and community engagement. We field competitive senior and junior teams across multiple age groups, fostering talent from grassroots to elite levels. Our facilities include modern training grounds and spectator amenities, hosting regular home matches and regional tournaments. With a dedicated coaching staff and structured youth academies, we prioritise skill development, sportsmanship, and inclusivity. The club actively promotes rugby through outreach programs and partnerships with local schools.Our annual Bonfire Night event attracts hundreds of spectators, combining family entertainment with our signature fireworks display. As a registered charity, we reinvest all proceeds into maintaining our facilities and expanding our community initiatives. Our leadership team comprises experienced professionals with decades of combined involvement in rugby administration. Through consistent participation in national leagues and cup competitions, we maintain our reputation as one of the North West's most respected rugby clubs.
Services
Rugby Training
Youth Academies
Match Day Hospitality
Community Programs
Event Hosting
Highlights and features
- We offer structured youth development from Under 6s to Colts level
- Our senior teams compete in regional leagues with experienced coaching staff
- We host family-friendly public events like our annual Bonfire Night display
- Our facilities include modern training grounds and spectator amenities
- We maintain 150 years of rugby heritage with community-focused operations
Services
Rugby Training
Structured coaching programs for all ages from Under 6s to senior levels. Expert coaching staff deliver technical skills, tactical awareness, and fitness training. Sessions focus on player progression through age-appropriate drills and match practice.
Youth Academies
Comprehensive youth pathway from mini rugby to Colts XV. Specialised age-group coaching with emphasis on skill development and sportsmanship. Regular inter-club fixtures and tournament participation for competitive growth.
Match Day Hospitality
VIP hospitality packages combining premium seating with catering services. Ideal for corporate entertaining or special occasions. Includes exclusive access to post-match player meet-and-greets and club facilities.
Community Programs
School partnerships and adult beginner sessions promoting rugby participation. Free taster clinics during school holidays. Collaborations with local charities for inclusive sports access and youth mentorship programs.
Event Hosting
Multi-purpose facilities available for weddings, conferences, and private functions. Includes access to bar, catering, and sports viewing areas. Flexible packages for day or evening bookings with parking facilities.
People
Robert Thompson
President
Serving as club president with over 25 years' involvement in rugby administration. Previously coached senior teams and managed junior development programs. Committed to maintaining the club's heritage while driving modernisation initiatives.
Dan Orwin
Head Coach
Experienced first-team coach with professional playing background. Implements modern training methodologies combining technical skill development with tactical match strategies. Oversees player progression pathways from youth academies to senior squads.
Jackie Ballard
Marketing and Admin
Coordinates club marketing campaigns and event management. Manages digital communications and membership programs. Organises the annual Bonfire Night event attracting over 1,000 attendees.
Sarah Burke
Safeguarding Officer
Ensures child protection compliance across all junior activities. Conducts regular safeguarding training for coaching staff. Manages the club's youth welfare policies and parent engagement initiatives.
John Peterson
Webmaster
Maintains the club's online presence and digital infrastructure. Manages online bookings, match streaming, and player performance tracking systems. Implements technology solutions for membership administration and communication.
Questions
How can I join Preston Grasshoppers Rugby Football Club youth teams?
Contact our Mini/Junior coordinators via our website for age-specific team availability and registration details.
Are public tickets available for your home matches?
Yes, match-day tickets are available at the gate for all senior home fixtures at Lightfoot Green Lane.
Do you offer corporate hospitality packages?
We provide tailored hospitality options for business groups - contact our office for match-day packages and venue hire.
What community initiatives do you run?
Our outreach includes school partnerships, adult rugby taster sessions, and annual charity fundraising events.
Can I hire your facilities for private events?
Our function rooms and grounds are available for private bookings - contact our venue coordinator for availability.
