England and Harlequins legend Danny Care hopes “best tournament in the world” can inspire next generation of rugby players
Written by Luke Carr on 27th February 2025
England and Harlequins legend Danny Care has praised the Six Nations for “uniting a nation” while also inspiring a younger generation.
The 25th year of Six Nations is currently underway with England level on points with France in 2nd place. Speaking to Spark, Care said: “Rugby has given me everything, it’s the best sport in the world and no tournament brings people together like this one.
“I want to see more boys and girls around the world pick up a rugby ball like its second nature and be inspired by players on TV.”
The Rugby Football Union’s own research this year highlighted that rugby is at risk of a decline due to the participation numbers of young people in school. Sunderland University has also suffered from lack of participation with one of the smallest numbers of players compared to other sports.
The rugby president of Sunderland University, Harvey Allen said: “Having the Six Nations on, especially on free-to-air TV, is important to keep the sport alive and well. Away from the pitch we all still enjoy meeting up and getting behind our country.
Danny Care of Harlequins shouts instructions to team mates during EPCR Challenge Cup Match between Harlequins vs Montpellier at Twickenham Stoop Stadium on Saturday, 16 April 2022. Credit: Taka G Wu/Alamy Live News
“Playing rugby at the university has been the best decision I’ve made. I’ve made friends for life.”
The Greene King pub group is partnered with the Six Nations this year, broadcasting every game throughout the tournament in their pubs to bring rugby fans together and shine a light on the sport.
Care admitted when he’s playing: “You realise everyone you’re representing, at home, in the pubs, we are just the lucky ones who wear the shirt.”
England have won the Six Nations seven times since the new format with Care featuring in three of them, one of those being a grand slam (beating every team)
Care said: “It’s amazing as it’s so hard to win because all six teams can beat you on the day, it takes a lot of hard work and determination but when you do win it’s just incredible.
“In 2016 when we lifted the trophy and completed the grand slam, it was something all kids dream about when they are little. It was a special feeling.”
