TWO rugby coaches from Taunton and Minehead have made the grade in a new RFU initiative, designed to recruit and train 2,015 new Level Two coaches before the start of the 2015 Rugby World Cup in England.

Local coaches Steve Frost, from Taunton RFC and Clive Crosby, from Minehead Barabarians RFC, are two of the 2,015 new Level Two coaches recruited and trained as part of the QBE Coaching Club programme

The programme was established to ensure the game in England has enough quality coaches to welcome new players and encourage them to stay within the sport.

Army veteran Steve Frost first started coaching when he was asked to help run his son’s under 11 team at Taunton RFC.

Steve has been coaching ever since and joined the QBE Coaching Club to keep improving himself as a coach.

The Level 2 qualification he achieved has allowed him to continue coaching his team as they reach under 18 level.

Steve said: “I think it is really important to support grassroots coaching and for young players to receive quality coaching from qualified coaches. This will help them develop as players and stay in the game for longer.”

Clive took up playing rugby for a bet when he was 25 and fell in love with the sport.

Four years ago, when his son took up the sport, Clive found himself helping out with the team.

He quickly developed a passion for coaching and for trying to get the best out of his players.

As his team grew older, Clive found himself wanting to develop himself as a coach so that he could continue as their head coach all the way up to adult rugby.

The QBE Coaching Club has allowed Clive to continue as head coach of his son’s side, now under 11, as well as taking charge of the newly formed women’s team.

Clive Crosby said: “Despite being a late comer to the sport, it is fantastic to see my love of the game reflected in those I coach.

“I teach both children and adults who are new to the game, and it is great to see their confidence rocket when they realise how good they can become. Getting my Level 2 qualification has taught me skills to empower my players whatever level they are.

“The QBE Coaching Club is a brilliant way to ensure quality coaching and participation across the country.”