Heathfield & Waldron were privileged today to be visited by a Rugby Great, Martin Johnson (MJ). The Club hugely appreciates his contribution today and the associated photo albums illustrate how much those involved enjoyed and valued the occasion. The man more than lived up to the legend.
Several hundred people of all ages turned up to welcome MJ and even if some of the youngest will not have understood who this person was, they will probably come to appreciate the photos and memories in years to come.
Once MJ had been photographed separately with all of the Heathfield Mini and Junior age groups, he took part in hour long sessions with the Club’s Colts and then the Senior section.
For both sessions he worked chiefly around lineout procedures and, while he was able to pass on plenty of individual technical detail, the players afterwards commented mainly on how much he emphasised the team motivational aspects.
Originally it had been agreed that after the two coaching sessions MJ would do a short meet-and-greet with club members. The coaching went on well beyond the two hours and he then spent ages signing and being selfied with all-comers. Long after his scheduled departure time he was still talking to Heathfield Head Coach Dave Cook and others.
As a result of MJ’s visit today a significant donation has been made to his favourite charity SPARKS.
https://www.sparks.org.uk/