Rugby - a game for families

The Longton Rugby Club site is not just some muddy field in the middle of nowhere with a tin bath in a shed for a dressing room.  Far from that old cliche, the beautifully looked after pitches here, and the modern buildings, make it look like some corporate outreach job.

However, it's a really family-oriented place. Though the senior team plays at a very high level, it almost feels like the junior teams and ladies teams are as important.
Going to watch the first team on a Saturday (it's free) is a proper day-out, with the clubhouse facilities open during the match. Around 200 or so is the usual gate.

I captured this shot at the end of the game. As the team walked off the pitch (having won the game), many of them stopped to play with their kids before they got changed. I think it's a charming scene.
You wouldn't see that at Stoke City FC!

Link:  Longton Rugby Club