The official launch of the community partnership between Salford City Reds rugby team and the University of Salford got off to the best possible start on Friday with a 70-6 win for Salford over Swinton.
And, as part of the new link-up, the University gave t-shirts and rugby balls to local schools - and free match tickets from the Reds boostered the crowd to a bumper 6,000.
The University's community partnership with the Reds has already helped the team by giving them access to sports science staff and students as well as high-tech fitness testing facilities.
In return, the University has received coaching and kit for student rugby teams, and coaches and players have delivered lectures and worked with sports psychology students - as well as providing Salford students with the experience of working with professional athletes.
On the night there was also a valiant attempt to break the world record for the most number of passes of a rugby ball. Despite the atrocious weather conditions, the volunteers - including many under-tens, reached a creditable 170 passes - a mere 80 short of the record.
Graduate Chris Bamber, who is jointly employed by the University and the club to run the link-up, said: "This was a great night to launch the partnership. A local derby, a bumper crowd and a great win are all good omens for the future success of the project.
"We were disappointed not to break the world record and we're looking to have another go in the near future.
"But, by giving the balls to local schools and clubs, we're establishing a lasting link between local children and sport and opening their eyes to how higher education can help them succeed. I'm very much looking forward to the possibilities that this community partnership presents."
Ends
Notes to Editors
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Jamie Brown / Rachel Conway
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The University of Salford
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