New role: Dan Ward-Smith explains a drill to some Inside Running Academy members in New Zealand

THIS COMPETITION could change your life! Dan Ward-Smith, the former Bristol, Wasps and England Saxons back-row, is now managing the Inside Running Academy in New Zealand – and they are offering one lucky Rugby World reader the chance to train in Mount Maunganui.

England days: Ward-Smith in action in 2010

Ward-Smith was forced to retire in 2011 because of a back injury and returned to his native New Zealand with his family, where he’s now enjoying his new role with the academy. He says: “I’m extremely fortunate that I’ve found something fulfilling. Seeing someone put into action what you’ve helped them with is different to scoring a try or winning a lineout, but it’s equally, if not more, rewarding.”

Now here’s your chance to improve your rugby skills under the guidance of Ward-Smith and the likes of Nic Gill, the All Blacks strength and conditioning coach. The winner of this fantastic prize will win a 12-week scholarship at the academy worth NZ$10,200 (£5,300). As well as the expert coaching, they will play for a local club in the Bay of Plenty and be able to explore New Zealand.

Sessions will include strength & conditioning, skills and video analysis alongside club training. Accommodation, local transport and the majority of food is provided, although the winner will need extra money for food and entertainment (around £50 a week). Flights to New Zealand are NOT included.

Great setting: the academy is in Mount Maunganui

Courses run until September and the winner, who should be over 18, can choose the time that suits them best.

We’ll also run fortnightly progress reports on what the winner has been doing in New Zealand right here at rugbyworld.com

For a chance to win this great prize, email rugbyworldcompetitions@ipcmedia.com by Friday 1 March, title it ‘Inside Running Comp’ and send us the following details:

1. Your name, age and contact info.

2. Your rugby position and experience – the level you played at, any representative honours etc.

3. A 50-word explanation of why you think you deserve to win.

To find out more about how Ward-Smith overcame the disappointment of retiring to find his dream job, check out the latest issue of Rugby World.