Rugby Union: Under 10s get big surprise as Sale Sharks Rugby Stars turn up to club training session

Littleborough RUFC under 10s with Sale Sharks stars James O’Connor, Halani Aulika, Andrei Ostrikov and Paolo Odogwu

Littleborough RUFC under 10s got a big surprise when three Sale Sharks players turned up at a club training session.

Littleborough were one of 12 winners across the UK of Aviva’s Grassroots Giveaway competition, which saw them win £2,000 worth of Gilbert kit and equipment and a training session with Sale coaches, as part of its campaign to celebrate the inclusive and diverse nature of the sport from the amateur level to the elite. 

There was a twist in store for the young team, as James O’Connor, Halani Aulika, Andrei Ostrikov and Paolo Odogwu turned up to join in with their session and met the children and their parents as part of the unforgettable experience.

The competition was launched in December by Aviva, now in its eighth season as title sponsor of England’s elite rugby competition, to celebrate the grassroots level of the game and also to recognise the significant value local amateur clubs bring to their communities up and down the country.

From junior teams to veteran teams, wheelchair rugby to walking rugby, women’s teams to mixed ability rugby, deaf rugby to blind rugby, teams and clubs from all areas and formats of the game had the opportunity to secure kit and equipment from Aviva.

Grassroots rugby plays an important role in local communities, which is why Aviva is committed to supporting these clubs with vital funding, so they can continue to embody and represent the inclusive, fun and loyal nature of the sport.