Unlikely Partnership: The Surprising Bond between Leicester Tigers and Norfolk in Rugby Union

“In Norfolk, it’s in our blood. We are Leicester Tigers through and through.”

In the heart of Norfolk resides a community bound by an inexplicable love for the Leicester Tigers. Though separated by a three-hour drive spanning 110 miles, the residents of this small town near the north Norfolk coast unite to support their beloved team.

Simon, a devoted fan hailing from Norfolk, attests to this unwavering sentiment as he attends an open training session at Gresham’s School in Holt with his wife and daughters. Their dedication is not unique; hundreds of fans flock to witness their team train.

Amidst this sea of supporters, one cannot help but notice that the area has become a “home away from home” for the Leicester Tigers. The county consistently sends hundreds of fervent followers to each game while also serving as fertile ground for nurturing exceptional players.

Norfolk-born talents such as Freddie Steward and Ben Youngs have emerged from this region, honing their skills within the confines of the Leicester academy before making waves on international stages like the Rugby World Cup. Jack van Poortvliet would have joined them had it not been for an unfortunate injury.

The influence extends beyond brothers Ben and Tom Youngs who proudly donned England jerseys alongside representing British and Irish Lions during their illustrious careers. Players like Harry Simmons, Calum Green, and Charlie Clare played pivotal roles in reviving Leicester’s fortunes as well.

A Surprising Catchment Area

In professional rugby circles, each team typically operates within its designated ‘catchment area’ to identify promising talent through robust academy systems. For Tigers, traditional sources include Leicestershire and Rutland along with neighboring counties such as Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire Lincolnshire,and Staffordshire – all geographically close and expected choices.

However, Norfolk’s inclusion in this catchment area sparks curiosity. Why pair it with Leicester when other Premiership rivals like Northampton or Saracens are closer? The rationale behind this decision remains shrouded in mystery.

Tigers’ general manager Richard Wilkes acknowledges the logistical challenges arising from this arrangement. The club, local schools, parents, and players themselves navigate a grueling three-hour journey multiple times a week just to pursue their rugby dreams.

A Journey Worth Making

“We managed to organize a minibus for about six to eight [Tigers academy] players,” recalls Van Poortvliet as he reminisces about his early days at North Walsham Rugby Club. “We’d wake up at six in the morning, train until three in the afternoon, and return home by seven in the evening. It was tough and draining but we loved every moment of it.”

The sacrifices are justified by the remarkable talent emanating from Norfolk’s rugby hotbed. Nick Youngs proudly refers to himself as “a farmer from Norfolk” while neglecting to mention that he once represented both Leicester and England during the 1980s – not forgetting that he is also father to Tigers legends Ben and Tom Youngs.

Norfolk has long been an untapped gem producing exceptional rugby players who have excelled on professional platforms. Clubs like National League Two side North Walsham, Holt,and Norwich have played crucial roles in nurturing these talents over generations.

A mural depicting Ben Youngs adorns Holt Rugby Club – a testament to his achievements as one of England’s most-capped players. However,the list of professionals hailing from here extends beyond him; current Tigers stars Steward,Simmoms,and Clare have all emerged from these fertile grounds.

Indeed, Norfolk’s rugby legacy remains a source of bewilderment and fascination. The club system in the region has been integral to their success, consistently churning out exceptional players who embody the spirit of Leicester Tigers.

In conclusion, as we delve into this unique pocket of rugby obsession nestled within Norfolk’s borders, it becomes evident that distance holds no significance in the face of true passion. Despite being separated by miles and hours on end, Leicester Tigers have found an unlikely home away from home – where dreams are nurtured with unwavering dedication.