Meet The Team

Chris Smith

Founder • RFU Educator • South East Federation Referee • Kent Youth Rugby Executive Committee Member

Chris co-founded The Rugby Project to give young people more ways to be part of the game — on and off the pitch. An RFU Educator, experienced referee, and member of both the Kent County Youth Rugby and Referee Society Committees, he also leads the Junior Development Squad for Kent Referees and supports new match officials as they take their first steps.

Lewis Franks

RFU Educator • South East Federation Referee • 4th Official (Championship & PWR)

Lewis brings energy and insight to every session, drawing on his experience as a Level 6 referee and RFU Educator. This season, he joins the team of 4th officials in the Championship and Premiership Women’s Rugby, sharing the reality of high-performance refereeing with the next generation.

Chloe Cannon

Referee • Women’s Rep, Kent Women & Girls Rugby Committee

Chloe is passionate about making rugby inclusive and accessible. A committed referee and the Women’s Representative on the Kent Women & Girls Committee, she champions opportunities for young women in the game while helping all participants build skills and confidence on the field.

Olly Smith

South East Federation Referee • First Aid Lead

Olly is a Level 7 referee who helps deliver our First Aid training and mentors young people on and off the pitch. Calm under pressure and approachable, he brings experience and enthusiasm to every session, helping participants gain confidence and develop practical skills in a supportive environment.

Bronte Smith

Admin Lead • Events Coordinator

Bronte keeps The Rugby Project running: organising intro evenings, managing admin, and making sure the season runs smoothly for participants and TRP team alike.