ROCHFORD Hundred were boosted by a coaching session from Harlequins Director of Rugby Conor O’Shea after winning a national grassroots competition.

The QBE hit squad judges were impressed by Hundred’s passion for sport and therefore selected them to be coached by O’Shea.

The Irishman was at their Magnolia Road base on Wednesday night and was pleased to be able to be to show Rochford his skills.

“I was thrilled to be asked to join the QBE Hit Squad and this initiative will enable coaches like me to give back to our local communities like at Rochford, sharing some of the expertise gathered throughout the years,” said O’Shea.

“It was great to get started with Rochford Hundred and to pass on my knowledge and share my expertise from both playing and coaching professional rugby.” O’Shea guided Rochford’s players through the core facets of the game and he will also return to watch their final game of the season in April.

Rochford will also have the opportunity to attend an open day with members of the England Rugby backroom staff who will be on hand to offer their rugby knowledge, expertise and coaching tips to further enhance the club’s development.

And that delighted Ray Stephenson, Rochford’s Club Coaching Co-ordinator.

“It’s fantastic to have won the QBE Hit Squad competition and to get the opportunity to learn from Conor O’Shea is great for the club,” said Stephenson.

“Using Conor O’Shea coaching expertise and experiences in rugby will only benefit us as a club. The Official Insurance Partner of England Rugby, QBE, is working with the RFU and its coach educators to train 2,015 new level two coaches by September 2015 through the QBE Coaching Club.