The grassroots partnership between NatWest and the Welsh Rugby Union aims to help clubs attract new members and become more sustainable.
New for 2016, clubs had the chance to see Shanklin join them as an advisor, in addition to receiving grants of up to £1,000.
A significant number of clubs registered for NatWest RugbyForce this year with applications being received from across Wales.
Five clubs were then shortlisted and put to an online public vote with COBRA coming out on top and winning the ultimate prize of having Tom Shanklin become a part of their club and receiving a grant of £1,000.
The other four clubs (Bonymaen, Girling, Ammanford and Clwb Rygbi Cymry Caerdydd) will also receive £1,000 due to the strength of their entries.
Shanklin, the former Cardiff Blues player and Welsh international, will look to combine his experiences both on and off the pitch as he works to help grow the club and increase sustainability.
Shanklin said of his new role, “Rugby is the heart of this community and plays a vital role in bringing people together. COBRA’s application and enthusiasm for NatWest RugbyForce really stood out to me and I am thrilled to be a part of their next chapter.”
James Watkin chairman at COBRA, is looking forward to working with Shanklin and said, “To have someone like Tom join our club is a fantastic opportunity and we can’t wait to start working with him. His passion for Welsh rugby is well-known and will no doubt inspire our current players as well as encouraging newcomers to the game and club to get involved.”
Shanklin will be on hand to help the club for a year and will be there to celebrate the annual NatWest RugbyForce weekend where COBRA are encouraging club members and volunteers from the local community to come together on Saturday 13th August.
The club plans to get started on improving its facilities by installing new dug-outs on the 1st team pitch.
Beyond the weekend event, Shanklin will be offering his support as COBRA look to improve facilities for both players and supporters and develop a long-term plan to ensure the club continues to progress.
