A FORMER rugby player is stepping out of the scrum and on to the stage by taking part in Rugby Theatre’s family pantomime to raise money for his friend, ex-England captain Lewis Moody, who was recently diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
Rob Field played over 200 first class games during the 1990s with Leicester Tigers, Coventry, Rugby Lions and the Midlands, and was Lewis’s teammate at the start of his glittering career.
He said: “I vividly remember the first match I played with Lewis, when he scored two breakaway tries on his Leicester Tigers debut.
“You could tell straight away he was something special. And despite everything he achieved – England captain, Lions tours – he’s always stayed the same great guy.
“MND is a horrible, debilitating illness. In my small way, I hope I can help Moodos and his family prepare for the years ahead.”
Lewis is hoping to come and support Rob in the theatre’s production of Treasure Island – and had some words of encouragement for the production’s delighted cast and crew.
He said: “I hope Rob has managed to figure out his right from his left when it comes to dancing – he’s a massive, lanky, tall, enormous unit! But I just wanted to say have a great show. I’m sure you will absolutely carve it up. I’m looking forward to coming down and seeing one of the performances.”
Following on from his rugby career, Rob, who now works in financial services, has faced his own battles with depression.
Working with a counsellor, he put in place a plan to reduce stress and do more fun things. It was this plan, and a dare from his daughter Robyn, that led him to audition for Treasure Island, and he was cast as a pirate and a sailor.
“Lewis is right – I’ve got two left feet!” said Rob, who is 6ft 7in tall and weighs 19 stone. “I have been really touched by the other members of the cast and crew who have not only put up with my regular collisions but embraced me as part of the team.
“I’ve loved every minute of rehearsals and can’t wait to get on the stage. The show will be amazing!”
Lewis’s ex-Leicester ‘Sabretooth’ friends have organised a fundraiser to support his wife and two children following his diagnosis. Visit www.gofundme.com/f/lewis-moody-fundraising-appeal to donate.
Rugby Theatre’s production of Treasure Island runs from January 23 to February 1.
