Gareth Rees – Head for Change Community Hero

I’m a 71-year-old happily retired teacher doing my best to stay active as the years roll on, who was once slightly famous for a Guinness 6 Nations advert.

Sport has always been central to my life. I played a vast number of sports at school and college but actually gained representative honours in five at county level or above, with rugby and swimming being my main focus. After training as a teacher, I spent 37 fulfilling years working in London, Cheltenham, and Witney, specialising in PE and outdoor education. I led pupils on countless mountaineering trips across the UK and Europe and more than 50 school ski holidays.

Rugby has always been my number one passion. I retired from playing relatively early due to injury, but that led me into coaching, which continues to this day. I was honoured to serve as a national coach within the England U16 system for 10 years, including five as head coach.

In retirement, I gained qualifications in sports nutrition and sports massage and even spent time working with a GB Bobsleigh team. These days, I stay active through swimming, gym sessions and long-distance cycling. I’ve taken part in many sportives and charity rides, none more demanding than the Head for Lyon ride in 2023!

Today, my passion for rugby is undiminished (difficult at present as an avid Welsh supporter), but I am acutely aware of the issues the game faces, and  I am proud to be associated with Head for Change as a supporter, fundraiser and member of the education group.