Eastern Counties Rugby Union

Eastern Counties is delighted to announce the appointment of Gary Baines to the post of RugbySafe Manager - he will be taking the lead on promoting player safety and best practice in rugby in the East of England.

Gary spent 32 years in the NHS working as a paramedic and a senior manager including time working on helicopter operations and rapid response units for the East of England Ambulance Service Trust. He is currently the RugbySafe lead for Saffron Walden RFC and provides medical cover for the club's 1st XV at home and away matches.

Gary comments:

"I am pleased to take on the role as the RugbySafe lead on behalf of the Eastern Counties RFU and I look forward to all forms of rugby returning to our pitches and schools in the very near future. The safety and welfare of all players is crucial to the success and enjoyment of the game that we all love to play and watch.

Promotion of the RFU’s headcase training, concussion protocols and first aid training for volunteers and club officials is something that we should all seek to promote and encourage.

I look forward to visiting as many clubs as I can and seeing the great work that already goes on within the Eastern Counties."

With player safety, mental health and the avoidance and management of concussion all major issues in the game, Eastern Counties will be supporting Gary in ensuring that clubs have all the information they need to deliver a safe and enjoyable experience for all involved in the game. We will also be looking to grow a network of RugbySafe leads in our counties and clubs. Anyone who wants to know more or is willing to offer help and support can email Gary at rugbysafe@ecrurugby.com.