And teams from 17 schools who triumphed at EDF Energy rugby festivals held by clubs, will run out at Twickenham Stadium to play in a tag rugby demonstration game at the home of English rugby.

Clubs are working towards introducing 112,000 8-10 year old boys and girls to the sport through the programme by July 2009.

Louise Poole, Head of Brand at EDF Energy, said: “Well done to all 17 schools. EDF Energy is committed to rugby from the grassroots to the elite and wants to inspire youngsters to get active and help create the next generation of players and fans.

“The clubs have been working really hard to introduce children to rugby through the schools programme and the cup final will be a fitting showcase to celebrate the programme’s achievements and the success of so many schools.”

The tag games are at half-time in the EDF Energy Cup final between Leicester Tigers and Ospreys and EDF Energy National Trophy final Exeter Chiefs against Northampton Saints.

Professional coaching, regional rugby festivals and equipment given to schools by EDF Energy, have all helped rugby take root at hundreds of schools since the programme, managed by Premier Rugby, was launched in January 2007. By July, 70,000 children will have been introduced to rugby.

Tickets are available for the EDF Energy Cup final at Twickenham on 12 April and include the EDF Energy National Trophy and EDF Energy Intermediate Cup finals on the same day. Visit edfenergyrugby.com or call 08705 582 582 for more information.