Rugby Foundation to Auction Sir Clive Woodward England Warm-up Jersey

San Diego, CA (August 16, 2007) – How would you like to show up at upcoming World Cup parties wearing an England warm-up jersey that once belonged to defending World Cup champions England head coach and manager Clive Woodward? Well now you can. Just be the high bidder on this latest jersey up for auction by the USRF and the jersey is yours. Sir Clive’s initials are even embroidered in the lower left hand front of the jersey.England became the first Northern Hemisphere team to hoist the Webb Ellis Trophy signifying the world’s best rugby team when they downed Australia in the 2003 RWC final. Three names stand out from that England squad: the England captain Martin Johnson; the golden boy Jonny Wilkinson; and the coach Clive Woodward.This heavy-weight England warm-up jersey was donated to the Foundation by John Tyler who served as liaison to the England team when they toured the United States in June 2001.“Coach Woodward presented the jersey to me in appreciation of my liaison work for the England squad when they were headquartered in Northern California,” said Tyler, who remains active in the Northern California rugby scene. “I have admired what the Foundation has done and I think that Clive would approve having his jersey help assist the game here.”“The Foundation would like to thank John for donating this piece of rugby memorabilia to the Rugby Foundation.” said USRF Executive Director Brian Vizard. “There has been only five Rugby World Cup winning coaches and we are pleased to be able to auction off a jumper once owned by one of them.”Photos, a more detailed description of the jersey and more information about Clive Woodward and his England team can be found on eBay, item #180150021521. The bidding will conclude at 10:00 a.m. (PDT) on Thursday, August 23.The USRF is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization established in 1963. Although its main focus is supporting youth and high school rugby, the Foundation also provides grants to coaches and referees; establishes international student exchanges and college scholarships, has assisted the United States Collegiate All-Americans and Boys Under-19 teams, and also provides grants to Safety and Risk Management Research.For more information about the Foundation, go to its website at: www.usrugbyfoundation.org.