Evans, Rhys

Rhys Evans
Start date:
October 2017
Research Topic:
Providing legal protection for Grass Roots Rugby
Research pathway:
Supervising school:
School of Law and Politics,
Primary funding source:
ESRC Studentship
External Sponsor:
Welsh Rugby Union

The project will examine the resistance of local rugby union clubs in Wales to take effective steps to protect against personal liability. The data from the project will inform the development of effective information packages to protect the local rugby clubs at the heart of Welsh communities.

There are just over 300 amateur local rugby union clubs in Wales. The majority are run as unincorporated associations with all legal liability remaining with the volunteer trustees of the club. This personal liability has seen individuals and communities hit by tribunal and other claims. A legal analysis will therefore be carried out, identifying the current legal position and the best vehicle for protection of clubs based on size, membership and other relevant factors.