Louis Deacon is quite simply a legend at Leicester Tigers.
Born and bred in the county, the lock forward was an almost ever-present at Welford Road for a decade and a half.
During that time, he made 274 appearances for the club and earned England recognition to win 29 caps. His debut came in 2005 against Samoa and he was involved in the France World Cup during 2007, where England reached the final.
He joined the Leicester Tigers Academy in 1997 and worked his way through the ranks to make is first team debut in 2000.
A strong and uncompromising second row, Deacon was known for doing the hard yards at rucks and mauls and was tremendously reliable for club and country.
During a hugely successful career, he played in two European Cup finals and five Premiership finals for his club before being forced to retire through injury in 2015.
'Health benefits for active youngsters'
Family has always been a big part of his life with brother Brett a team mate at Leicester during his playing days.
Rugby has always remained a big part of his life with coaching stints at Moseley, Coventry and with the Spanish national side.
He became an ambassador with didi because of his wish to spread the values of the sport to young children as early as possible in their development process.
“What Vicky and her team are doing with the didi rugby programme is great,” said Deacon.
“The values that they help instill in young people like discipline and respect at such a young age is brilliant.
“Having that as a foundation, while also having fun with friends, and the obvious health benefits for active youngsters is also pivotal.
“Getting them involved in such a fun programme at such an early age gives children the perfect start to an active life in sport.”