The Heart of the Game: A Look Inside Community Rugby
A new five-part documentary series, The Heart of the Game, is shining a light on what grassroots rugby is really all about.
Fronted by Rugby World Cup winner Will Greenwood, the series follows Maidenhead Rugby Club during the 2024/25 season. What started as a small project to understand challenges around player numbers quickly turned into a deeper look at the people and stories that keep a club going.
As Greenwood explains:
“We didn’t set off trying to make a documentary… we just wanted to understand how to make the club better.”
The series explores both the challenges and the positives of community rugby – from men’s and women’s teams to youth rugby and inclusive spaces for all. It highlights how clubs offer far more than just a place to play, acting as important hubs for connection, support, and wellbeing.
One of the most powerful moments comes from Sarah Renton, who shares the story of her daughter Issy Phipps. Following Issy’s tragic passing, the rugby community came together to support her family. In her memory, new facilities for women and girls have been built, and work has also been done to bring mental health support into clubs.
Reflecting on the experience of making the series, Greenwood said:
“We kept finding more stories… people who dedicate their time, energy and passion to their rugby club.”
The documentary also recognises the vital role of volunteers, whose commitment keeps grassroots rugby running every week.
Conor Crowe from Polar Media House said:
“We wanted to highlight the good that goes on in these clubs… not just the rugby, but as a place of community where people can feel supported.”
Featuring voices from across the game, The Heart of the Game is a reminder of the important role local clubs play in communities across the country.
As Greenwood puts it:
“Your community clubs are utterly vital for the physical and mental health of us all.”
The series will be available to watch on England Rugby’s YouTube channel from 17th April.
