Part 1: Where it all began 🏉👌

The concept of didi rugby (although unnamed at that point) was always in my brain niggling at me to do something about it, to make more of a difference to young people and their families.. the idea of getting physical activity and the enjoyment of sport and exercise to more people.

I had always felt a little bit trapped in a school as a PE teacher.. not enough children to influence.. too many levels of management to get ideas passed through… seeing the bigger picture and not being able to have enough influence over it!

Unfortunately or I actually now believe FORTUNATELY (sorry Mum and Phil I so know this time was hideous) I had a significant event happen to me to make me stop, reflect and reframe my life direction! In November 2013 necrotising fasciitis came into my life and nearly took my life away! In a nut shell … I got an infection that meant one day I had what felt like a bruised shin bone, 36 hours later I was fighting for my life and my leg in intensive care !

In summary.. I nearly died, was 12 hours from a leg amputation and I was told the only reason I survived was because my heart was fit and strong.. so that day, everything changed! I had two little boys at home, a 4 month old and a 20 month old who were my world 🌎, a husband, and parents who were trying to hold it all together at home, and I realised what was important – family and a bigger purpose to help more people to be fit and healthy, so no one would die from infections that they should be able to fight! Everyone should be educated and encouraged to be fit and healthy from an early age…  “didi rugby” had been born!

I kept visiting this in my mind.. researching around early years learning, reading around and interviewing key influencers around the subject of children and physical activity… I was at the time working as a PE teacher (Head of Physical Education) but also a School Sports Coordinator working with primary aged children in sport. This just cemented my vision that we needed to influence these children much younger than primary school , and actually educate and support parents to install these values and habits earlier in life.. 18 months or steady on their feet was the key to starting on the didi journey! didi sports was always the umbrella but I knew that to get didi out there it was through the tool of rugby we needed to utilise to do it – my PE teacher hat, being a Mum, ex England international rugby player and level 4 rugby coach all pointed towards rugby being the key driver. My youth and young adult life was filled with rugby, and the life it gave me in terms of fitness and health, personal achievement, travel, life long friendships was incredible.. I wanted more people to experience a taste of this.

I was extremely fortunate to have a few key people who gave me the confidence to get going on my didi rugby dream… My Mum – recently retired business woman and formerly in education, my husband who supported me to reduce my hours at work and follow my dreams, and Matt Cropp a good friend and local successful businessman who went in on the business with me providing me with the business acumen I needed to get going! Along with these guys.. an amazing network of friends and family who supported the journey.. encouraging me and sharing the concept far and wide.. I even practiced sessions with my friends children in the garden at mine – with permission to borrow them I should add. A first ever photo shoot with Max and Harry, and Matt’s two boys Preston and Myles (with Vicki Cropp on camera duty) inspired us to sit down and finally go for it – a conversation over a drink and a few notes on beer mats at Hinckley cricket club gave us the final push we needed to get going…

My young boys Max and Harry (now 11 and 10 years old) were the biggest didi rugby ambassadors- and  I truly believe that all the time we spent on didi rugby.. in terms of their  physical literacy and development, as well as social skills and learning to work with others.. 100% enabled my two to be the well rounded, sporty , bright kids that they are… Leicester City academy for my oldest boy with high performance in his SATs at end of key stage 2, and Hinckley Rugby Football, many on stage acting performances, and a very bright button for my youngest who absolutely loves to learn.

Oh yes I meant to say the name of didi rugby came from my swimming as a youth in the “Nuneaton diddy swimming league” under 12s competition … great memories of these times – didi meaning small meant a great name for 18 months – 6 years old !

In May 2015 didi rugby was officially born.. didi rugby Matt Cropp and my Mum Denise McCormack were behind me 100% working on the business start up, and Ben Avent my Redmoor colleague and rugby mate was in it from the start , assistant coaching with me .. so both of us as coaches, 8 children and  based in the old clubhouse at Hinckley RFC was, and still is, the original home of didi rugby !

didi rugby was born! 🏉❤️🙏

See you soon for part 2!

didi Franchising

didi rugby Wales is excited to announce its relaunch, now under the dynamic stewardship of Alun and Lydia Rise. This new phase promises to build on the strong legacy of excellence set by former leader Jaz Joyce, focusing on nurturing children’s development through the joy of rugby.

Alun and Lydia Rise, known for their boundless enthusiasm and extensive experience in rugby, education, and operations management, are set to redefine didi rugby’s impact across Wales. Alun, a WRU level three coach with a history of managing the WRU Welsh Exiles program and serving as academy manager at London Welsh, brings a depth of rugby knowledge and coaching acumen. Lydia complements the team with her expertise in rugby operations and business management, adding a robust operational dimension to the franchise.

The relaunch under Alun and Lydia is more than just a continuation of didi rugby Wales; it’s a celebration of the values and foundations laid down by Jaz Joyce. Their commitment to enhancing the overall experience for young players is evident. They aim to foster skill development, teamwork, and a love for the sport, ensuring that the essence of rugby is enjoyed by all.

As didi rugby Wales turns this new page, the community is invited to join in the excitement. Alun and Lydia Rise are committed to nurturing not only the physical skills of young players but also their mental well-being. They envision didi rugby Wales as a transformative platform where every child can grow, learn, and excel.

The Rise duo’s leadership marks an exciting era for didi rugby Wales. Families and children across the region are encouraged to be a part of this adventure, where the transformative power of rugby will continue to inspire and develop young minds and bodies.

With Alun and Lydia Rise at the helm, didi rugby Wales is poised for a bright and impactful future, staying true to the spirit of rugby while innovating and elevating the experience for the next generation of players.

didi Franchising

As the year 2023 winds down, it’s time to think about new beginnings and what better way to start 2024 than by embracing a business opportunity that brings not just financial gains but immense joy and fulfilment? Owning a didi rugby franchise offers a unique chance to make a tangible difference in your community while embarking on an exciting entrepreneurial journey.

What is didi rugby?
didi rugby is a well-established brand in the world of children’s sports, focusing on introducing rugby to children aged 18 months to 6 years. Founded by former England international Vicky Macqueen, didi rugby’s mission is to inspire and nurture children through this dynamic sport. The program emphasizes fun, safety, and inclusivity, making it a popular choice among parents who want their children to develop physical skills, confidence, and a team spirit.

Why a didi rugby Franchise?

1. A Growing Market: The demand for quality children’s sports programs is on the rise. Parents are increasingly recognizing the importance of early physical education, and didi rugby is perfectly positioned to meet this need.
2. Comprehensive Support: As a franchise owner, you’ll receive extensive support from the didi rugby team. This includes training, marketing guidance, and operational advice, ensuring you have all the tools necessary to succeed.
3. Community Impact: Owning a didi rugby franchise allows you to have a profound impact on your local community. You’ll not only be promoting physical health among children but also helping them develop social skills and a sense of fair play.
4. Flexible Business Model: Whether you’re looking for a full-time business or a part-time venture alongside your current job, a didi rugby franchise can be tailored to suit your lifestyle. This flexibility is ideal for those seeking a better work-life balance.
5. Brand Recognition: With the backing of a recognized brand like didi rugby, you’ll have an immediate head start. The brand’s established reputation will help in attracting clients and setting up your business.
6. Rewarding Experience: There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of watching children grow and develop. As a didi rugby franchise owner, you’ll play a crucial role in fostering young talent and instilling a lifelong love for the sport.

How to Get Started
To learn more about this exceptional opportunity and to find out how you can become part of the didi rugby family, visit didi rugby’s franchising. Here, you’ll find all the information you need to embark on this rewarding journey. Remember, it’s not just about adding an income stream; it’s about bringing joy and purpose to your life and the lives of countless children.

Conclusion
A didi rugby franchise is more than a business; it’s a community, a family, and a chance to make a lasting impact. As we look forward to 2024, seize the opportunity to be at the forefront of children’s physical and personal development. Join the didi rugby family and make a difference!

 

didi Franchising

Ever wondered what it’s like to be a didi rugby franchisee? Step into the world of our passionate franchise owners, where every day is filled with excitement, laughter, and the fulfilment of helping young children discover the joy of rugby and life skills.

• Mornings, Boundless Energy

For didi rugby franchisees, each day begins with boundless energy and enthusiasm. They wake up knowing that they are about to embark on a journey that will impact the lives of children in their community. Their mornings are dedicated to planning and preparing for the day’s classes, ensuring that every session is fun, engaging, and tailored to the needs of their young participants.

• The Heart of didi rugby: The Classes

The heart of a didi rugby franchisee’s day lies in the classes themselves. As they gather with eager young faces, the franchisee becomes not just a coach but a mentor and role model. They lead activities that teach rugby skills in a way that is playful and age-appropriate, all while fostering values like teamwork, respect, and self-confidence.

The reward? The laughter of children, the thrill of a well-executed pass, and the sense of pride as they watch their little rugby stars grow not only in skill but also in character.

• Connecting with Families

In between classes, didi rugby franchisees take time to connect with parents and caregivers. They understand that building trust and forming strong relationships with families is essential. These conversations are a chance to share the progress of each child and provide guidance on how parents can continue to support their development at home.

• Lunch Break and Team Support

Lunchtime offers a brief pause for franchisees to recharge and connect with fellow franchise owners. The didi rugby community is a tight-knit one, where support and camaraderie are always on the menu. They share experiences, offer advice, and cheer each other on.

• The Afternoon Session and Future Dreams

The afternoon brings more didi rugby sessions, each one as rewarding as the last. It’s a time for franchisees to witness the growth and development of the children they serve, and it fuels their passion for what they do.

As the day draws to a close, franchisees reflect on the impact they’ve made and the bright future ahead. They know that they are not just teaching rugby; they are helping shape confident, resilient, and active young individuals.

• Join the Journey

If the idea of a day filled with rugby, laughter, and making a difference appeals to you, consider becoming a didi rugby franchisee. Join us in this fulfilling journey and be a part of the didi rugby family. Discover more about the didi rugby franchise opportunity and how you can bring the joy of rugby to children in your community. Visit our Franchising page to learn more and take the first step towards your own didi rugby franchise.

Every day in the life of a didi rugby franchisee is a testament to the power of sport, community, and the boundless potential of children.

 

didi Franchising

Biggin Hill, UK – The Darwin Leisure Centre in Biggin Hill is set to become a hub of youthful energy and sporting enthusiasm as it hosts it’s first ever didi rugby classes, led by none other than the esteemed Maxine Edwards, on January 7, 2023. This marks a significant expansion of didi rugby’s presence in the area, offering young children a unique opportunity to engage in this dynamic sport.

 

Maxine Edwards, a name synonymous with rugby excellence, brings over 25 years of experience in the sport to these classes. Her illustrious career includes playing for notable clubs such as Bromley, Blackheath, and Saracens, and she has also graced the rugby field as an England player for more than 15 years. Maxine’s dedication to the sport was further recognized when she captained the England rugby team for two years.

Away from the rugby field, Maxine has been an influential figure in education, with over 18 years of teaching experience in a secondary school setting. This combination of sporting expertise and educational insight makes her an ideal mentor for young aspiring athletes.

The launch of didi rugby classes at Darwin Leisure Centre is not just a testament to Maxine’s commitment to the sport but also reflects her desire to give back to the community. These classes are designed to introduce children to the fundamentals of rugby in a fun, safe, and inclusive environment. The program focuses on developing skills such as teamwork, respect, and discipline, which are invaluable both on and off the pitch.

Maxine’s role as the franchise owner for the Bromley area and her impressive credentials are set to inspire a new generation of rugby enthusiasts. Her approach is expected to resonate particularly well with young learners, fostering a confident and supportive learning environment.

Parents and children in Biggin Hill and surrounding areas are eagerly anticipating the launch of these classes. With Maxine at the helm, the Darwin Leisure Centre is poised to become a vibrant center for youth rugby, shaping the future of the sport in the region.

For more information and to register for the classes, click here. This initiative promises to be the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Biggin Hill’s sporting narrative, under the expert guidance of Maxine Edwards.

 

• WATCH: Change your career for the BETTER!