How We Work Together
The Eastern Counties Rugby Union (ECRU) operates through a structured governance model designed to support and develop rugby across Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk. The union is responsible for overseeing club rugby, managing competitions, and ensuring the growth and sustainability of the sport at all levels.
Below is an overview of the ECRU's structure, outlining key leadership roles, committees, and areas of responsibility.
Management Committee
The Management Committee is responsible for the overall governance, strategic direction, and administration of Eastern Counties Rugby Union. It oversees the development of rugby in the region and ensures that the union aligns with Rugby Football Union (RFU) guidelines.
President
Represents ECRU at official functions and supports the development of rugby within the region.
Chairman
Leads the Management Committee, sets the strategic vision, and oversees ECRU’s operations.
Honorary Treasurer
Handles financial planning, budgeting, and financial compliance for Eastern Counties RU.
Honorary Secretary
Manages ECRU’s administrative functions, meeting records, and communication.
Immediate Past President
Provides continuity and advisory support to the Management Committee.
RFU Council Representative
Acts as the liaison between ECRU and the Rugby Football Union (RFU) for regional interests..
Roles &
Departments
To efficiently manage different aspects of rugby within Eastern Counties, ECRU has several sub-committees and specialist roles, each focusing on a particular area of the game.
Competitions & Playing
This committee oversees the structure and organization of club and county rugby competitions in the region.
Discipline Committee
The Discipline Committee ensures fair play, sportsmanship, and adherence to RFU regulations.
Chair of Discipline
Leads disciplinary hearings, investigates reported incidents, and enforces RFU disciplinary guidelines.
Discipline Panel
A group who assess disciplinary cases, review match reports & determine appropriate outcomes.
Youth & Age Grade Rugby
This committee focuses on developing junior and youth rugby in the region.
Chairman of Youth/Age Grade Rugby
Supports clubs, schools & academies in youth rugby programs.
Safeguarding & Welfare
ECRU prioritizes player welfare, safety, and inclusivity across all levels of rugby.
Safeguarding Manager
Ensures all clubs comply with child protection policies and RFU safeguarding regulations.
Constituent Body Safeguarding Manager
Works with club safeguarding officers, ensuring rugby is safe & inclusive.
Inclusivity & Diversity Lead
Works to make rugby accessible to all and promotes diversity in the sport.
Cambridgeshire Safeguarding Manager
Oversees safeguarding for clubs in Cambridgeshire.
Norfolk Safeguarding Manager
Oversees safeguarding efforts specifically for Norfolk clubs.
Suffolk Safeguarding Manager
Oversees safeguarding efforts specifically for Suffolk clubs.
Marketing & Sponsorship
This group manages ECRU’s public relations, branding, and sponsorship efforts.
Chair of Marketing & Communications
Oversees communication, digital presence & engagement with clubs.
Sponsorship Manager
Manages sponsorship deals & partnerships for ECRU initiatives.
Womens & Girls’ Rugby Development
To support the growing participation in women’s rugby, ECRU has dedicated representatives for female players and teams.
Women’s Representative
To support the growing participation in women’s rugby, for female players & teams.
County Representatives
Each constituent county within ECRU—Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, and Suffolk—has a dedicated representative who serves as the point of contact for clubs within their county.
Cambridgeshire Representative
Ensures clubs in Cambridgeshire receive appropriate support & governance.
Norfolk Representative
Ensures clubs in Norfolk receive appropriate support and governance.
Suffolk Representative
Represents the interests of Suffolk clubs and manages local rugby matters.