Former Chief launches new tournament

By Mark Stevens
8/4/19

Sun, sea, sand and rugby… what’s not to love?

Former Exeter Chiefs player Matt Jess and his wife Sarah will be staging the first- ever South West Beach Rugby tournament this summer – and raising money for three charities close to their hearts.

Part of the Chiefs squad that got promoted out of the Championship and into the Premiership, Jess was an integral part of the Devon club's make-up during his ten seasons at Sandy Park, amassing 144 appearances and 29 tries in the process.

These days, the 'Heamoor Flyer' runs his own rugby coaching business, transferring the drive, determination and experience he gained as a professional rugby player into his everyday coaching.

Supporting development within grassroots rugby and enjoying the next chapter in his career, the new tournament - which takes place on Exmouth Beach on June 29/30 - will look to bolster the fundraising coffers of Restart Rugby, the Royal Marines Charity and the RNLI.

Jess said “The mental health and well–being support given by Restart Rugby and the Royal Marines Charity resonated with both my wife Sarah and I. A beach rugby event seemed the perfect way to bring together the sport I love in a place I consider to be home, whilst raising funds and awareness for both these charities and the RNLI.

“The support we have received for this event from other professional rugby players has been fantastic and we’re delighted to have a Rugby for Heroes and a Veteran Chiefs Team all set to take part in this fun rugby weekend.”

For further information about the event and how to enter a team go to: www.southwestbeachrugby.co.uk