At 4 and 3/4 years old, Francis (Frankie) Richards is our youngest player; 60 years behind Ciaran Gannon and at the beginning of his rugby career. We caught up with both him and his dad to get their thoughts and experiences to date.

Can you kindly tell us how you became involved in London Irish Amateur RFC?

Dad: Honestly, we stumbled into it. we had moved from Hampton Hill to Sunbury. Our eldest, a larger than normal 5-year-old was playing at Hampton. We found out from a pal at the golf club that London Irish was at the end of the road, so we popped down and haven’t looked back.

Tell us a little about a training session and the particular activities you enjoy most?

Frankie: Training sessions are pretty good. I like playing with my friends and learning things about rugby and kicking the ball far. I don't like it when people steal our golden egg in the egg game.... oh, and I love chips and juice in the bar after with Freddie, my older brother, and his friends.

Have you been following the six nations?

Frankie: not really.... what’s that?

Have you a particular nation and player you support?

Frankie: oh, my favourite international rugby player is Danny Care, but I also like Stuart Hogg because he is my teacher’s cousin.

Dad: of course, but as a Scotland fan it’s had its ups and downs so far. Favourite player. Hoggy (just in case Frankie's teacher reads this, but he’s definitely one of them).

Finally, Graeme, last word to you, as a parent how are you finding London Irish mini rugby?

I love it, it has literally brought so much to us. So welcoming that I was instantly recruited to coaching with the juniors, from U5s onwards with our older son. He now is U8s. I also enjoy having a good run out on a Thursday evening with the Bs (Touch Rugby) followed by a good chat over a deserved beer.

Although we didn't move from far, it’s given us an instant support network as a whole family. Importantly it gives mum her well-deserved rest on a Sunday morning whilst we are down at Hazelwood in the 'mud, where we love it'. If the weather is fine, she can be seen 'watching her boys' with a sandwich and a coffee. One thing's for sure, we've all missed it during lock down and can't wait to get back.

London Irish Amateur RFC would like to thank Francis (Frankie) and dad Graeme for telling us of their positive experience and reflections on the club. We would also like to thank Head Coach Leon Orr, his coaching team and Manager Dee Wood for creating such an enjoyable environment for our Under 5s.

London Irish Amateur RFC mini and youth section functions effectively due to the time given up by volunteer parents and members to support the players and the club is grateful to the coaches, managers and members who fulfil those voluntary roles.

The club continually encourages parents to come forward to get involved in any way and for those who wish to consider taking up a coaching position within mini rugby, no experience is necessary and the club will provide free training and guidance. Why not follow Graeme's positive example and speak to your Head Coach or see the Volunteer’s section on the website?

Mini rugby is played on Sunday mornings at 10am at Hazelwood the home of London Irish. If you are inspired by Francis' story and want to get involved you can find all the information you need in the Mini section, Membership and Contact details of the website.