Kate Middleton takes over Prince Harry’s role as Rugby Patron
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On Wednesday, it was officially announced that Kate Middleton is the new royal patron of the Rugby Football Union and Rugby Football League.
The role was previously held by her brother-in-law, Prince Harry, who has served as the royal patron for both organisations for five years, prior to his resignation as a senior working royal.
Ever since the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back from their royal duties, they also gave up their involvement with a number of charities and organisations in the UK – such as the RFU, the RFL, the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust, the Royal National Theatre, and the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
In a post shared on the official social media pages of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Kate confirmed her role by writing: “I am so thrilled to become Patron of the Rugby Football League and Rugby Football Union – two fantastic organisations who are committed to harnessing the power that sport can have in bringing communities together and helping individuals flourish.”
“I look forward to working with them across all levels of the games, and to cheering England on in what promises to be an exciting year for both sports!” She finished the caption by signing off with her initial “C”.
Kate kicked off the announcement of her new role by visiting Twickenham Stadium to meet England players, as well as coaches and referees, as they prepare for the Six Nations Championships.
Wearing the official England rugby pants and zip-up top, the royal joined the players in their training session, headed by coach Eddie Jones.
Kate joined the England rugby players in their training session. Credit: AFP via Getty Images (left), PA (right).
The 40year-old mum-of-three looked simple and chic while playing Rugby with the players. At one point, she even managed to catch a ball while being hoisted up high in the air.
Kate was caught in hysterics while being lifted into the air. Credit: Samir Hussein/WireImage.
The Duchess of Cambridge has always been known for her athleticism and her love of sports. She was shown to be not afraid of getting stuck in, even after England players Jamie George and Ellis Genge sandwiched her in a mock scrum.
She was also known to be a regular audience at Wimbledon matches and even took on her own husband in a match of yacht racing.
Looks like this is just the start of a friendly competition between the royal couple! Prince William is currently a patron of the Welsh Rugby Union – a team that would probably meet Kate’s England team in an official match soon enough.
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