Grassroots to greatness: URC Origin Round returns

Across Round 12 (27 & 28 February) the United Rugby Championship is inviting teams, players and fans to celebrate the communities and people who helped launch the careers of hundreds of rugby players and coaches.

Over 700 players appear in the URC each season with parents, coaches and over 550 clubs from across 17 countries and all corners of the globe helping to put them on a pathway to play at the highest level.

The URC will shine a spotlight on the identities of the clubs, schools and communities that do an incredible job of giving children the chance to first pick up a rugby ball and guide the lucky few good enough to reach the elite level.

Round 12 of the URC will adopt Origin Round branding on its digital channels. Broadcasters will also highlight the origin point of various players with some wearing their school/club socks. While fans attending games are encouraged to wear their school/club jerseys or socks.

Many clubs are already looking at unique and bespoke ways to celebrate their own communities and the origin points for their players and the URC is hugely excited about the return of the grassroots-based activation.

Speaking about Origin Round, Martin Anayi, United Rugby Championship, CEO, said: "Long before they run out in packed stadiums, every player in the BKT URC first fell in love with rugby somewhere very close to home. Origin Round is about celebrating those places and people – the clubs, schools, families and coaches – who spark that passion and keep it alive.

“Across the BKT URC we have players from all corners of the world, but what connects them is the community that helped shape them. This round allows us to celebrate those stories, thank the people who give young players their first opportunity, and help fans – especially the next generation – better understand the journeys behind the players they watch every weekend.”