A back-row forward with a talent for stoolball, a questionable pre-match appetite and a self-confessed lack of changing-room chat – meet Eastbourne RFC’s Ben Gower and the family business supporting him, J F Construction & Son Ltd!

At 22, Ben Gower has already spent eight years at Eastbourne Rugby Club, progressing from a schoolboy persuaded to attend training by a mate to making his senior 1st XV debut away at Pulborough. Playing across the back row and at hooker, Ben loves the rugby, the friendships and, naturally, the post-match beer.

Away from the pitch, Ben works as a secondary school PE teacher and makes the bold claim of being one of the top 10 stoolball players in the world. We're not sure how that ranking has been verified, but we're certainly not going to argue with him!

Ben is sponsored by J F Construction & Son Ltd, a local, family-run construction and groundworks business with an impressive 43-year history serving the community.

Founded by Jabe Field in 1983, the business was taken over by his son David and David's wife Teresa in 2002, shortly after they married. Today, J F Construction continues to pride itself on honest, reliable service, personal attention and a strong reputation built through years of working with local customers.

From smaller jobs to larger extensions, the team provides personalised planning and detailed quotations, working closely with every client to understand their needs. It's an approach that has helped build lasting relationships, with many customers returning for further work over the years.

The business has been connected to Eastbourne Rugby Club for around 30 years through the Victoria Hotel, and its support reflects a genuine commitment to keeping grassroots rugby thriving in the town.

For David and the team, sponsoring ERFC is a small but meaningful way to give back to the local community. They enjoy the club's lunches, the Big Night Out and attending events whenever possible, and their message to other businesses considering sponsorship is simple: “Do it! It's a great way to support a great local club and be a part of something great.”

With another season ahead, we're delighted to have J F Construction & Son Ltd supporting Ben and Eastbourne RFC.

Getting to know Ben Gower

What's your favourite thing about playing rugby?
Spending time with my mates, playing a sport I love, and having a beer together after the game.

Who's your favourite professional player?
Sam Underhill – “The Pale Ork”.

And your favourite team?
Exeter Chiefs.

What's the best piece of rugby advice you've ever received?
“Shut your eyes and pray.”

We're not sure whether that's tactical advice or a set-piece survival strategy, but Ben seems to have made it work!

What makes Eastbourne Rugby Club special?
The people. There's a real sense of family and belonging, and it's a club where you genuinely enjoy turning up every week.

What's your favourite club memory?
Making my 1st XV debut away at Pulborough in my first season as a senior.

What's your go-to pre-match meal?
Ben's answer deserves a second look: avocado on toast, two double McMuffins, a bowl of granola and a cheese and bacon flatbread. We're not sure whether that's one meal or a full day's menu, but it certainly sounds like he's preparing for a busy afternoon!

Who would survive longest on a desert island?
Amro Hammer. He wouldn't need to find food for the first year.

And who has the worst chat in the changing room?
Me. No question.

At least Ben knows his weaknesses!

#Getting to know J F Construction & Son Ltd

With more than four decades in business, J F Construction & Son Ltd has built its reputation on personal service, reliability and strong community relationships.

The family business enjoys working with local businesses and the general public, offering construction and groundworks services tailored to each customer's requirements. Whether it's a small job or a large extension, every project receives the same care, attention and respect.

David and Teresa took over the business in 2002, continuing the foundations laid by David's father, Jabe, when he established the company in 1983.

Their long-standing connection with Eastbourne Rugby Club makes supporting the club a natural fit, helping ensure grassroots rugby remains part of the town's community for years to come.

And if they could invite one rugby personality to dinner? Their choice is former England prop Joe Marler – someone they reckon would be great fun to have a beer and a chat with. We imagine there wouldn't be a shortage of conversation!

Find out more about J F Construction & Son Ltd:
07714 748598 or 01323 642082
[www.jfconstruction.co.uk](https://www.jfconstruction.co.uk)

A huge thank you to J F Construction & Son Ltd for supporting Ben and Eastbourne Rugby Club. Your continued commitment to local rugby and the community is hugely appreciated!

Want to support Eastbourne RFC? Sponsorship is a fantastic way for local businesses to connect with the community, support grassroots sport and become part of the ERFC family.