The RFU today unveiled plans in Exeter to develop more young volunteers in rugby clubs across the country through its Young Rugby Ambassadors programme. There will be a launch at the Corn Exchange in Exeter on Thursday 31st October. Rugby clubs are being asked to nominate sixteen to twenty year old's to become Young Rugby Ambassadors, whose role will be to excite and inspire other young people in the build-up to the Rugby World Cup 2015 (RWC 2015) and beyond. The event at the Corn Exchange will involve young volunteers and mentors from rugby across Exeter and Devon. They will take part in workshops discussing ideas for community projects to inspire people about rugby, explore different leadership and ambassadorial styles and share information about RWC2015. These young ambassadors will be working in their clubs to pass on the latest news on RWC 2015, raise awareness of rugby in their local area and will also help to get 16-24 year old's from their community playing rugby again. RFU Rugby Development Director Steve Grainger emphasised the benefits of the programme: âWe are committed to support the development of young people as volunteers and future leaders in our clubs at all levels. This programme provides an opportunity for them to take their first leadership roles in clubs, using the inspiration of Rugby World Cup 2015 to engage current club members and recruit new ones. âThese young people represent the best of their generation and they will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the development and long term success of our sport in clubs across the country. Today marks two years to go to the final of Rugby World Cup 2015, and the Young Rugby Ambassador programme kicked off today in Exeter, one of the Host Cities for the RWC 2015. Rugby contributes to the development of young people in a wide variety of ways in building confidence and team working skills, commitment, supporting each other in difficult times, working towards a shared goal and of course improving fitness. There will be up to four Young Rugby Ambassadors from each rugby club, along with adult mentors who will work with them to provide advice and guidance, ensuring that they receive the support they need. The next group of young volunteers will be recruited by May next year. Cllr Rosie Denham, Exeter City Council portfolio holder for Economy & Culture, said âWith Exeter being a Host City for the Rugby World Cup 2015, we want this international sporting event to have a lasting impact on the city. The Young Rugby Ambassador programme is the ideal opportunity for young people to be involved with the development of the game and for them be role models for the game of rugby. Further information on the Young Rugby Ambassadors programme is available from YRA2015@rfu.com RWC 2015 will take place between September 18 and October 31 2015. For more information, contact laurabrown@er2015.com About the Rugby Football Union (RFU) The Rugby Football Union is the National Governing Body for rugby union in England and supports participants and fans from the grassroots to the national team. For more information visit www.rfu.com