This week, we meet Eastbourne RFC second row Jack Curtis, who has been part of the club since his very first days in rugby, and introduce one of our club sponsors, local independent insurance broker Mango Insurance.

Meet the Player: Jack Curtis

At just 20 years old, Jack Curtis has already clocked up an impressive 15 years in rugby, having been introduced to the game by his dad, who also played for Eastbourne. From his early days in the minis to pulling on the shirt for the senior side, Jack has been part of the club for as long as he can remember.

Now playing in the second row, Jack admires England and Saracens star Maro Itoje for his dedication, physicality and ability to make things happen on the pitch.

“I love his dedication to his club and England,” Jack explains. “I enjoy the way he plays rugby through taking chances, as well as dominating his position through collisions and set pieces.”

When he's not on the rugby pitch, you'll usually find Jack at the gym or enjoying a trip to the pub. And while he's happy putting in the hard work up front, he reckons his hidden talent might surprise a few teammates: as he claims to be an “outrageously good singer” - a night of karaoke at the club will soon confirm that!

Jack also has some sound advice for his fellow players when it comes to staying safe on the pitch: “Cheek to cheek” – a reminder of the importance of good tackling technique and keeping your head in the right position.

As for the funniest player in the squad, Jack diplomatically suggests everyone has their moments, before making one notable exception: “Ben Gower, horrendous chat!”

And who would he back to survive longest on a desert island? Max, naturally – especially if there's food anywhere nearby, he'll seek it out!

For Jack, though, one of the biggest thrills of match day comes before the first whistle, with the nerves and adrenaline building in the changing room. It's that feeling, alongside the friendships and competition, that makes rugby at Eastbourne so special.

Meet the Sponsor: Mango Insurance

Supporting Jack this season is Mango Insurance, a local, independent insurance broker offering a wide range of insurance policies to individuals and businesses.

Director Chris McGowan explains that the business grew out of a wealth of experience in the insurance industry. After 28 years working for an insurance broker, Kathryn decided it was time to go it alone. Following discussions with Chris and Jackie at Club Class Insurance Services Ltd., the business was acquired and refreshed under a new name: Mango Insurance.

The aim was simple: to create something fresh while continuing to put personal service at the heart of everything they do.

For Chris and the team, being part of the local community is a huge part of running a successful business. They are passionate about helping local businesses make sure they have the right cover in place, while building strong relationships with the people and organisations around them.

So, what brought Mango Insurance to Eastbourne Rugby Club?

Chris has a rugby background himself, having played for Eastbourne's local rivals Hellingly RFC. Despite that allegiance, he is a firm believer in supporting grassroots sport and giving something back to the community.

Mango Insurance is already a club sponsor and has now extended its support by sponsoring a player. Chris has enjoyed attending pre-match lunches and regularly takes up his spot on the sidelines, pint in hand, to enjoy local club rugby.

For Chris, the value of sport goes well beyond what happens on the pitch.

“Sport is such a critical thing for people, both physically and mentally,” he explains. “When we look at the challenges and pressures faced by society, what with social media, AI etc, sport is a great relief from those pressures of life.”

He also highlights the friendships sport creates and the importance of local businesses giving back to the communities that support them.

It's a message that fits perfectly with the values of Eastbourne RFC, where rugby brings people together across generations and provides a place for people to build friendships, stay active and feel part of something.

And if Chris could invite one rugby personality to dinner? His choice would be Martin Johnson – a player he describes as having “an absolute physical presence with a phenomenal rugby brain.”

Find Out More

Mango Insurance welcomes enquiries from both new and existing clients, whether you're looking for personal insurance or cover for your business. The team values meeting people face to face and is always happy to discuss individual needs.

The Stable, 4 Stables Courtyard, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 1EB
01323 444 555
mangoinsurance.co.uk

A huge thank you to Chris and everyone at Mango Insurance for supporting Jack and Eastbourne RFC. Your backing helps us continue to build a strong, connected rugby community in Eastbourne.