Big Bug Sports was founded in January 2000 to focus on managing the career of elite rugby union players. We started working with Northampton Saints players Budge Pountney and Matt Dawson in January 2000, and represented four of the England RWC 2003 squad (Cohen, Dawson, Luger & Worsley). We continue to take the quality-over-quantity approach.
Big Bug offers elite players full-service management in their rugby and commercial affairs. Where some agents will offer a one-off service for contract work, Big Bug provides the all-year attention by those who prefer or require a more business-like approach.
Despite our “boutique” positioning, we’ve managed player clients through over 600 international caps, one RWC success and three European Cup wins. We concentrate on the commercial off-field elements so the player can get on with his own on-field performance. Specialising in rugby, we know the clubs and how they work, the media, the key sponsors and their agencies.
Big Bug extended rugby activities in early 2004, setting up the Big Bug Boots service to provide a supply of boots, trainers and essential player equipment to pro clubs through visits to their place of work. With the support of adidas, Canterbury, Mizuno and Puma, the dedicated service has grown to support the players, staff and academies at 45 league and union clubs throughout the UK.
Dave worked in journalism, copywriting and PR before embarking on a nine year career with sports brand Puma (in the UK and Germany) with management roles in sports promotion, PR and investor relations. Before leaving Puma in autumn 1999, he held the position of Head of Marketing, Europe.
Eight years of elite player management required an extension of his competencies in brand marketing, media and sponsorship into an understanding of tax accounting, employment law and insurance cover as it applies to pro rugby. Not to mention continuing to develop contacts and a reputation for competency in a young, growing industry.
Dave is also the co-publisher of Running Rugby – a magazine for decision makers in Union and League (see www.runningrugby.com).
Jonny Hylton
Jonny has managed the Big Bug Boots business since September 2007. He has played full-time rugby for Wasps, Worcester and Cornish Pirates as well as having appeared for England 7s. He currently plays part-time for Newbury in the English First Division. In an expanding role, Jonny co-ordinates sales and marketing in close liaison with the sports brands, the professional clubs, their academies and player agencies
