England Touch: connecting all participants, linking pathways and performance

Following a period of organisational review and analysis, England Touch is taking steps to better link pathways and performance, and to connect all participant groups - players, referees and coaches - under one Pathways & Performance Leadership Team (PPLT).

The team will be led by Sammie Phillips (Director of Pathways & Performance), and will consist of a number of volunteer functional leads, supported and advised by key specialists.

The aim of the PPLT is to support and oversee ETA's performance pathways and programmes, ensuring that player, coach and referee development - from community to elite - is aligned, sustainable, inclusive and capable of supporting international success at Touch World Cup 2028 and beyond.

It is also important for England Touch to be recognised as implementing best practice as we seek to grow our relationship with key stakeholders such as Sport England.

The group members will be announced over the coming weeks as individuals are appointed. Where people are currently managing similar responsibilities to this in the new team, we will discuss potential suitable alternatives, and all vacancies and subsequent appointments will be communicated as they are confirmed.

Any questions can be directed to Crystal Ravenscroft, Head of Organisational Development, via crystal.ravenscroft@englandtouch.org.uk.