Charles Tyrwhitt has marked six years as a partner of England Rugby by teaming up with rugby mental health charity LooseHeadz to celebrate the power of grassroots rugby – on and off the pitch.
To kick off the 2026 Guinness Men’s Six Nations, Chiswick Rugby Club and LooseHeadz will face each other in a one-off fixture for the inaugural Tyrwhitt Cup, shining a spotlight on the vital role community clubs play in supporting player wellbeing.
The match will take place on Friday 20 February at Chiswick RFC, with supporters welcome to attend.
Both sides will be led by familiar faces from the game. LooseHeadz will be captained by England international and Bristol Bears prop Max Lahiff, while Chiswick will be guided by former England scrum-half and Charles Tyrwhitt ambassador Matt Dawson. Ahead of kick-off, the two former internationals will work hands-on with players in a coaching session, putting grassroots rugby firmly centre stage.
The fixture comes as new research from LooseHeadz highlights rugby’s positive impact on mental health, with 92% of club players saying the sport benefits their wellbeing.
Clinical and Scientific Advisor Dr Steffan Griffin’s research shows that rugby clubs offer far more than physical activity. They provide social connection, support networks, routine and a sense of belonging – all key contributors to good mental health.
Community clubs also play a wider role in society. Sport England research has shown grassroots sport delivers significant social and economic value, from reduced crime to improved health outcomes and strong volunteer networks. For many people, their local rugby club is the heart of the community.
This is not the first collaboration between Charles Tyrwhitt and LooseHeadz. In 2023, the organisations hosted a panel discussion with leading players to tackle mental health stigma in rugby, followed by a series of initiatives supporting grassroots clubs, including a clubhouse takeover at Chiswick RFC and matchday experiences for club volunteers.
Rob Shotton, Co-Founder of LooseHeadz, said:
“Rugby is all about togetherness, camaraderie and family. Charles Tyrwhitt’s support hasn’t just been financial – it’s been personal. That allows us to reach more clubs, more players and ultimately save more lives in rugby. I’m proud to pull the boots back on for the Tyrwhitt Cup and represent everything this partnership stands for.”
Fixture: Chiswick RFC vs LooseHeadz
Venue: Chiswick RFC, W4 2SH
Date: Friday 20 February
Timings: Pre-match from 6pm | Kick-off 7pm
Entry: Free – all welcome