Launch of the Rugby Business Network, Bristol

Wednesday, 6 November saw in the successful launch of the Rugby Business Network in Bristol which bought together the great rugby sportsmen of Bristol with local business owners.

The sold out event welcomed nearly 100 attendees to Mercedes Benz, Bristol, who not only sported a large networking area- with some very nice cars, but provided the drinks and nibbles too.

A round of 10 minute question and answer sessions with 3 keynote speakers was had which included Bob Reeves- President of the RFU and director of the foundation of leadership through sport, Ben Breeze- Chief Executive Officer at Bristol Rugby Community Foundation and Lionel Hurst – CEO of the All Golds, the only professional rugby league team in the South West.

As if there wasn’t a good enough reason for the network launch, the success of the launch of the Rugby Business Network, Cheltenham and Gloucester in July certainly spurred on the moment, which also sold out of tickets attracting more than 80 people.

The Rugby Business Network is the largest and most successful business network in the world for people with a passion for rugby. There is currently 16 406 members on LinkedIn and Bristol was the 45^th city to launch a Face to Face networking group

Rob Thomas, Organiser of the Rugby Business Network, said:

“It is very much about businesses coming together to help each other and to also help players to transition into business. Because they have some brilliant skills they can apply- whether that’s team building, whether its leadership.

“So these events, I think, are not only for players but also local business leaders.”

The evening was bought to a close with a raffle draw for a signed rugby ball and 2 Bristol Rugby Matchday packages, donated by the Bristol Rugby Community Foundation. The total raised on the night topped at £204.50 which has gone to the foundation which supports the key fundamentals of a successful rugby union.

If you were at the event, did you enjoy it? Are you planning to be at the next event?

There are 3 events a year in Bristol, 3 in Gloucester and 3 in Bath so throughout the year there will be an event you can go to.

If you are in business and have a passion for rugby, then sign up to the Rugby Business Network via the website or visit the LinkedIn page

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