Royal Wootton Bassett RFC

Passion, purpose, and plans for growing rugby across Wiltshire

If you’ve been near a rugby pitch in Royal Wootton Bassett, chances are you’ve seen Rhys Floyd - the club's Community Rugby Coach - encouraging young players through tackles, passes, and laughter in equal measure.

As the club’s trailblazing CRC, Rhys has become a familiar face at schools, half-term camps, and training sessions across Wiltshire.

We caught up with Rhys while he was busy planning a new series of Half-Term Rugby Clinics for boys and girls this October, to talk about his story, coaching philosophy, and what drives him to grow the game he loves.

A life built around rugby

Rugby has been part of Rhys’ life for as long as he can remember.
“My dad was the First XV Captain at Bassett when I was a kid, so I was basically brought up at the rugby club,” he laughs. “This year marks my 19th year with the club, whether that’s been playing or coaching.”

That lifelong connection inspired him to give back.
“I want to make rugby more accessible for everyone within Wiltshire,” he says. “There’s so much potential to get young people involved, and that’s what drives me.”

Coaching with purpose (and plenty of passion)

For Rhys, coaching is about far more than drills and matches - it’s about personal growth.
“The most rewarding part of the job is seeing children develop, both on the pitch and in their everyday lives,” he explains.

He takes pride in being a bridge between school and club rugby, helping players take that next step with confidence.
“I love being a familiar face for children transitioning from school matches into club rugby. Helping them feel comfortable about that jump is something really special.”

When asked which values he prioritises most, Rhys doesn’t hesitate:
“Respect. Rugby prides itself on it, and I try to help players carry that beyond the pitch.” 

Fun comes first!

It doesn't matter if he is coaching rugby at schools, running half-term sessions for young people in the community, coaching the Walking Rugby team, or being one of the coaches involved with the club's new Senior Women's squad - Rhys’s sessions are known for being high-energy, inclusive, and engaging.
“Every group is different,” he says. “I use differentiation to make sure each session meets the players’ needs, so everyone gets the most out of it.”

And how does he measure success?

“If everyone’s engaged, smiling, and looking forward to the next session, that’s a good day’s work.”

Role models and rugby heroes

Growing up, Rhys had strong influences both on and off the field.
“My dad, Dave, has always been my biggest inspiration. He’s been there every step of my rugby journey, both as a parent and as a coach.”

As for players, he admits he’s a bit of a traditionalist. “Jonny Wilkinson has to be my all-time favourite. His winning the 2003 World Cup really inspired me.”

Favourite memories? “Winning the league as a player with Bassett’s 1st XV will always be up there. But also, taking Bassett Academy’s Year 9s to play at Sixways and the Allianz Stadium — that was huge as a coach.”

Overcoming challenges

Rhys is open about his personal journey too.
“I actually struggle a lot with anxiety,” he shares. “Coaching in schools, with our Walking Rugby team, and with our new Women’s senior team has really helped bring me out of my shell. It’s given me confidence and lets me use my own experiences to help others do the same.”

His advice for anyone thinking of giving rugby a try?
“Just do it. It might feel daunting at first, but it’ll be the best decision you ever make — and you’ll never look back.”

What’s next?

Looking ahead, Rhys’s focus is clear — keep growing the game, and keep it fun.

 
This October, he’ll lead a week of Half Term Rugby Camps at Royal Wootton Bassett RFC, open to boys and girls aged 7–16. Running from 23rd to 30th October, the sessions cater for all abilities, from complete beginners to young players sharpening their skills.

For the first time, the programme will include dedicated sessions for girls’ rugby and primary school players, reflecting Rhys’s commitment to making rugby more inclusive than ever.

“It’s about giving every child a chance to try rugby in a safe, fun, and positive environment,” he says. “If they leave smiling and wanting to come back, that’s what success looks like.”

Whether through school sessions, walking rugby, or holiday camps, Rhys Floyd continues to help shape the next generation of players — one muddy pitch at a time.

📧 Email: CRC@rwbrfc.club

 
🔗 Book your place: www.rwbrfc.club/news/october-half-term-clinics

Interview with Rhys Floyd, RWBRFC CRC, by Jackson Allen

October 2025