Jamaica’s rugby programme eyes 2031 World Cup as UK grassroots effort grows

Jamaica’s rugby programme, driven by volunteers in the UK and the Caribbean, is expanding rapidly and aiming to qualify for the 2031 Rugby World Cup. Jamaica UK Rugby, under the Jamaican Rugby Football Union, now has about 500 members, with youth teams and pathways for sevens and 15s.

Coaches and volunteers run development sessions across England to recruit and retain players. London-based coach Phil Davis approached the Jamaican union in 2021 to find a 15s pathway for prop Ben Hatfield. When none existed, Davis created one, running sessions in Manchester, Sheffield, Nottingham, Birmingham, Bristol and London to give young players targets and continuity.

Hughton Campbell, president of Jamaica Rugby UK, has overseen the programme alongside a telecommunications career. A breakthrough came in 2018 when a sevens side made third at the Youth Olympics qualifiers in Las Vegas. Covid-19 later forced reliance on moving UK-based players to tournaments.

Campbell says he met Jamaica’s prime minister this year, who agreed to find a pitch on the island; currently there is no official rugby pitch in Jamaica. Coaches in the Caribbean, including Curtis Wilmot and Tahj-Jay Lynch, run islandwide development work, with Lynch described as a father figure to many players.

Key Topics

Culture, Sports, Jamaica, Rugby, Grassroots, Youth Development, 2031 World Cup