One Team. One Goal. Rugby First.

The Royal Navy Rugby Union proudly celebrates the outstanding contributions of our wonderful volunteers with the 2025 annual awards. These accolades honour those who go above and beyond, both on and off the field, to make our Union and its Clubs truly exceptional. They are a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated volunteers who tirelessly give their time and energy to rugby week after week. Without their passion and commitment, the RNRU would not be the thriving organisation it is today.

The Valuing the Volunteer scheme highlights the incredible efforts taking place behind the scenes. This programme ensures rugby flourishes at every level, recognising the unsung heroes who make it all possible. As we celebrate the 2025 season, we salute our dedicated volunteers and their remarkable achievements as they keep the game vibrant, thriving and enjoyable for all. 

CPO Dave Pascoe - Chris Alcock Outstanding Contribution Award
Dave’s impact on Royal Navy Rugby has been transformative. With an illustrious playing career, including 35 Royal Navy caps, eight years as Team Captain, six Combined Services caps, and honours for Cornwall and the Barbarians, Dave transitioned seamlessly into coaching. Appointed Head Coach of the Senior Men’s team in 2018, he led them to Inter Service Championship victories in 2016, 2023, and 2025. The 2025 triumph was particularly significant, following a narrow 2024 defeat to the Army. Dave turned that setback into motivation, inspiring the squad to a dominant comeback, marking a pinnacle of achievement for Navy Rugby.

Beyond results, Dave’s calm, strategic leadership and focus on resilience have elevated Navy Rugby. His coaching philosophy, centred on empowerment, collaboration, and empathy, has raised standards, with more players now competing at Levels 1, 2, and 3 of the national pyramid. He has mentored assistant coaches, supported U23 development, and fostered a culture of Discipline, Belief, Respect, Selflessness, and Enjoyment.

Through decades of service, Dave has shaped winning teams and developed leaders who embody these values in their duties. For his exceptional commitment, leadership, and contribution, Dave Pascoe is a deserving recipient of the Chris Alcock Award for Outstanding Contribution to Navy Rugby.

POPT Dave Heming – VtV 2025
POPT Dave Heming is awarded the Value the Volunteer Award 2025 for his exceptional dedication and voluntary service to Royal Navy Rugby. Since 2017, he has been a cornerstone of the Royal Navy Rugby Union (RNRU), dedicating countless hours to enhancing players’ experiences. His passion and commitment have positively impacted athletes across all levels.

As Operations Manager for RNRU 7s, POPT Heming has expertly managed logistics, budgets, and operations, ensuring seamless seasons. Between 2020 and 2023, he served as Assistant Team Manager for the U23s, applying his expertise to ensure success. In 2023, he delivered a prestigious international tour to Canada, followed by an even more successful showcase in Fiji in 2024.

At regional and establishment levels, he has organised competitions and supported the Women’s Senior XV. His efforts have driven growth, professionalism, and inclusivity in RN Sevens Rugby, leaving a legacy of respect and gratitude.

CPO Stewart Wright – VtV 2025
Stewart Wright is awarded the Value the Volunteer Award 2025 for his exceptional dedication and leadership as the driving force behind Marham Bulls Rugby Football Club’s success over the past year. As Director of Rugby for the Lightning Force team, he has coordinated fixtures, administration, and coaching, while liaising with Royal Navy and Royal Air Force Rugby Union leadership. His efforts led Marham to win both the Royal Navy Cup and Royal Air Force Cup in 2025.

Expanding the player base to over 50 members, he ensured opportunities for all, sustaining a high tempo of over 20 matches despite the challenges of the Lightning Force’s deployment cycle. Amid committee turnover, he organised social and expedition fixtures, including a successful RAF Marham Families Day event, raising vital funds.

Balancing his primary role as Maintenance Controller, he has selflessly built the culture and success of the Marham Bulls.

SLt Sam Sims – VtV 2025
Sam Sims has made an exceptional contribution to the Royal Navy Rugby Union as Strength and Conditioning (S&C) Lead for the Senior Men’s team, playing a key role in their preparation for the Inter-Service Championship. He developed position-specific programmes based on scientific research, tailored to weekly training loads, and collaborated with the medical team to support player rehabilitation.

Following his success, Sam became Head of Performance, expanding his remit across all teams. He is currently focused on enhancing resources for the Women’s team, driving S&C education, and establishing baseline fitness standards and performance targets.

When the Senior Men’s Team Manager departed unexpectedly, Sam volunteered as Tour Manager, overseeing logistics, player availability, and coordination with US military hosts. He ensured seamless daily operations, adapting to challenges and delivering a highly successful tour, earning MVP recognition.

Sam’s dedication, expertise, and work ethic have been instrumental in the post-COVID-19 success of Navy Rugby, ensuring athletes are consistently competition-ready.

Gareth Fairbairn – VtV 2025
Gareth Fairbairn’s exceptional 17-year contribution to Royal Navy Rugby has been pivotal in developing refereeing and upholding the values of Service rugby. He has officiated at all levels, including the prestigious Inter Service Championships, and served selflessly in nearly every Executive Committee role. As Training Officer, he has been the driving force behind referee development, recruiting and mentoring new referees.

In addition to this, Gareth has taken on roles such as kit manager, RN and Combined Service appointer, and Society Secretary, ensuring smooth operations and maintaining high standards. Every RN rugby referee since 2005 has benefited from his wisdom, energy, and supportive approach, which has shaped careers and strengthened the referee community.

Gareth’s passion, leadership, and tireless efforts have sustained and grown Royal Navy Rugby, making him a role model of volunteerism and commitment. He is a truly deserving recipient of the 2025 Value the Volunteer Award.

Surg Lt Cdr (D) Mike Jones – VtV 2025
Mike has made an outstanding contribution to rugby aboard HMS PRINCE OF WALES during Operation HIGHMAST, significantly boosting participation and morale. Despite his demanding role as Senior Dental Officer and Medical Department DHOD, he organised twice-weekly training, touch rugby on the Flight Deck, and fixtures during port visits, including Soudha Bay, Singapore, Darwin, and Goa. His efforts raised the sport’s profile onboard and attracted new players.

He developed a female team of 15, many new to rugby, and led them to field competitive teams against established clubs. Under his leadership, the men’s team remained unbeaten throughout the deployment, with fair selection and game time for all.

Beyond the pitch, Mike championed rugby’s social traditions, fostering camaraderie and securing sponsorship and support, including British and Irish Lions merchandise and a message from Australian scrum-half Nic White. His dedication exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism, making him a deserving recipient of the 2025 RNRU Value the Volunteer Award.

…and finally, a special mention goes to Army Rugby’s Chris Fowke, who, despite leading the opposition in red, was always there to support Navy when needed! Chris recently stepped down from his role as Chief Operations Officer, passing the baton to his daughter, Kimberley.

Getting involved with the RNRU as a volunteer is a fantastic way to support service sport. Here are some steps to get you started:
Visit the RNRU Website: Check out the official RNRU website for information on current volunteer opportunities and how to apply.

1. Contact the RNRU: Reach out directly to us through the contact page or social media channels to express your interest in volunteering.
2. Attend RNRU Events: Participate in RNRU events and matches to network with current volunteers and staff. This can provide insights into how you can contribute.
3. Join Local Clubs: Engage with local Navy rugby clubs (Devonport Services/ United Services Portsmouth), as they often need volunteers for various roles, from coaching to event management.
4. Volunteer for Specific Roles: Look for specific roles that match your skills and interests, such as coaching, administration, event coordination, or player support.

Volunteering with the RNRU is a rewarding experience that allows you to give back to the rugby community and support the development of the sport at all levels.