Messages of Gratitude
Through its strategic vision of “Sharing the Spirit of the Game’’ The Rugby Club Foundation is pursuing its primary object of supporting grassroots Rugby by way of a financial grants program. The financial grants recipients are grateful to the Foundation for the assistance which allows their programs to succeed. The following are messages of gratitude have been received from those benefiting from the Foundation’s Financial Grants program.
December 2023
I just wanted to drop you a note to wish you all a Merry Christmas and to once again say thank you for your amazing support of grassroots junior rugby this year.
The 2023 State Championships were our biggest in history and your generous contribution is a huge part of making our signature event such a success.
I know our clubs, Zones and Districts are so appreciative of your support and on behalf of all the juniors in NSW I just want to say thanks again and wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy & Prosperous New Year
Yours in Rugby
Ben Gregory
VP Representative - NSW Junior Rugby Union
October 2023
As l think you know , l am a huge fan of the Foundation and l admire greatly the terrific contribution you and your colleagues continue to make towards our game .
Congratulations, and l sincerely wish you continued success in all of your initiatives.
Ron Graham AM - TRCF Rugby Life member & NSWRU Life Member
July 2023
On behalf of the NSW Juniors Committee, I would like to personally thank the Rugby Club Foundation for their continued and invaluable support of the NSW Junior State Championships. Without this generous contribution these Championships would not be able to grow as they have year on year into the largest tournament of its type with this year hosting over 200 teams. This support enables us to improve operational efficiencies and welcome so many teams/Districts & Zones across so many venues.
Last weekend was our final event with the Under 10s and 11s running their gala day at Eric Tweedale stadium in Granville. These are our youngest participants and the tournament works as a true foundation and development platform for our great game. The feedback from this event has been extraordinarily positive and it is great to see so many boys and girls getting involved in rugby grassroots. It is difficult to properly articulate the impact your generosity has had however without such it is likely that our less financially fortunate players would not have been able to participate. Additionally the quality of our 1st Aid and Referees across last weekend and the June long weekend was exemplary and made possible through your support.
Your contribution is greatly appreciated and certainly not underestimated, we are extraordinarily grateful and amazed by everything you do for grassroots rugby.
Many many thanks
Andrew Hutton
President - NSW Junior Rugby Union
May 2023
Please pass on our thanks to all at The Rugby Club Foundation – this grant represents a significant opportunity for the NSWRRA to have a positive impact on the game at all levels in our jurisdiction – juniors to Shute Shield and into representative rugby – as we improve our recruitment/retention and development of our referees.
We acknowledge the trust the Foundation has placed in us with these valuable funds.
Our deepest thanks and kindest regards.
David Marshall
President – NSWRRA
May 2023
Thank you so much for the continued support from the Rugby Club Foundation.
Suburban Rugby’s initiatives with match officials and coaches simply would not exist without the Foundation’s generosity. Your organization’s focus on funding practical measures to help community rugby is very much appreciated.
Thanks again,
Tim Richards
NSW Suburban Rugby
December 2022
It is also important to thank The Rugby Club Foundation for their generosity towards grassroots junior rugby in 2022. The really are wonderful people making a difference and we are very appreciative of their efforts.
Ben Gregory
VP Representative - NSW Junior Rugby Union
August 2022
Great to see an organisation doing right by rugby across all levels.
August 2022
The VRRA is extremely grateful to The Rugby Club Foundation for providing the grant which has enabled us to purchase communications sets to ensure all senior 1st VX matches have full teams of 3 with operational communications sets. We have also been able to purchase a number of coaches sets to provide even more of our younger and less experienced referees with the best coaching tools possible.
The match sets will improve the quality of the communications between the referee and ARs and lead to better outcomes for these games, ensuring the players will be provided the best match experience possible.
Best regards,
Andrew Schwilk
President, Victorian Rugby Referees Association
July 2022
Please pass on my thanks to Chairman Angus Bruxner and his Board for the massive support the Rugby Club foundation gave to the 2022 NSW State Champs.
Hopefully your investment at this level of our great game will pay healthy dividends for years to come.
July 2022
On behalf of Petersham Juniors Rugby Club we just wanted to express our gratitude to the The Rugby Club Foundation Board. The support that the Rugby Club Foundation has provided to grass roots rugby is appreciated. The funding you provide for the Juniors State Champs, Development Officers, Referees and countless other initiatives really does make a difference. A simple example of how you make our life easier: every year we get asked about Assn/Competition fees from parents… by removing or reducing some of these conversations allows us more time to focus on improving on field experiences for the kids. We are hoping this investment will pay off long term for the good of the game.
Regards
John Kilkenny
President, Petersham Juniors Rugby Club
July 2022
Just an email of appreciation to The Rugby Club Foundation for your support at this years State Championships and Gala’s.
As a parent of two young Junior boys involved in Rugby; I’m very appreciative of the support and generosity from the Chairman Angus Bruxner as well as the Board in all they have contributed towards the development of our kids and their love Rugby.
July 2022
On behalf of Randwick Rugby, I just wanted to thank The Rugby Club Foundation including yourself, Chairman Angus Bruxner and your Board for your very generous support of grassroots rugby. Your generous offer to pay every District's team fees is an amazing gesture and very much appreciated by all of us here at Randwick.
Both the 2022 NSWJRU State Championships and State Gala were a tremendous success and proved that rugby at the grassroots level is alive and well. Seeing the smiles on all the kids faces over both weekends made all the lead up work preparing our teams for competition definitely worthwhile.
Thanks again and all the best.
Stu Donaldson
Manager, Randwick Junior Academy
July 2022
Our U14 team manager for Gordon has highlighted the important role the Rugby Foundation had in providing financial support in supporting the State Champs to be run so successfully this year. On behalf of our family we wanted to say a huge thank you for the contribution the foundation have made towards junior rugby, and the opportunities our young men have as a result of the support the Board and members of your team have provided.
July 2022
We have just returned from the NSWJRU State Gala, our boys and girls competed for the Manly Marlins squad. They had a short preparation but the experience they had galvanised them as a squad and they also made some quality friendships throughout the weekend.
The atmosphere throughout the weekend, for us, was one of great respect and camaraderie. At the end of each game both teams clapped each other off and posed for pictures together. I think all the squads felt privileged to be there and the parents either remanisted with their own love of the game or in the case of my wife marvelled at the bonds the teams fostered in such a short period.
Please pass our warmest regards to the Chairman, Mr Angus Bruxner and the board of The Rugby Club Foundation for their wonderful support of junior rugby union. Our Seaforth Raiders are better for the experience and in the case of my son I know his passion for the game has grown. He wears his state championship hoodie everywhere, even to an alternate sport practice yesterday.
All the best and thank you.
July 2022
As a parent, I would like to thank The Rugby Club Foundation for their generosity to allow these kids to participate in such a great event! Your donation made is possible for all kids from all walks of life to commit to the events and training.
For months prior this is all my son was talking about and I assure you it will still be talked about for months from now.
July 2022
On behalf of my son (HVJRU) and our family we’d love to thank you all the board members for all the ongoing support you give us.
We know without the support our kids couldn’t play.
July 2022
I just wanted to express on behalf of my wife and son thanks to The Rugby Club Foundation for their support for the representative season.
Our son competed in the u10 tournament. It was our first experience of this and he and we had a great weekend. The number of teams able to compete with the necessary officiating and medical assistance made this the event that it was.
Could you please pass this thanks on to Angus and his board. It is a fantastic thing that they do for our great sport that finds itself in a less than easy moment in its history in Australia. It is so vital to have as many kids playing at this level as possible to further the quality of play and community of rugby.
July 2022
I would like to say that thank you to the Rugby Club Foundation, Chairman Angus Bruxner and the rest of the board for the generous support of the U10 & U11 state gala last weekend.
It was an amazing experience for my son and a memory he will never forget.
July 2022
On behalf of everyone in the U10s Norths Juniors team, managers and coaches, we'd like to say a heartfelt thank you for support of the Rugby Club Foundation.
The U10s State Cup was a fantastic experience for all players, and none of this would be possible without the work that you, Angus and the Board do to make everything happen. It was an amazing two days and the Central Coast Junior club team and facilities were first class.
Thank you for supporting grassroots rugby!
July 2022
We would like to thank the Rugby Club Foundation, Chairman Bruxner and the Board, for your generous support over the last weekend in Tuggerah at the NSWJRU State Championships. With your help and financial support, you made it possible for many excited players to come together and share their love for Rugby. The weekend was well organised and ran smoothly. We were very lucky with gorgeous weather as well! Our son loved every minute of the weekend, he learnt a lot and made many friends along the way.
We look forward to next year!
Kind regards,
U10 – Gordon Highlanders Family
July 2022
On behalf of Forest Rugby and my son who represented the Manly Marlins on the weekend, I would like to thank you for the work you do and for your support of the State Championships competition.
Without your support it would be so much harder to keep these kids playing rugby.
Regards,
Tom Heaton
Junior President
July 2022
we gather the state gala day was made possible by the Rugby Foundation.
Our son played throughout the weekend and we would like to express our thanks to the Board for their support to make this event happen.
Great to see so many smiles on so many faces.
July 2022
Please pass on my sincere thanks to the Chairman and Board for their generous support of the NSWJRU U10/ U11 State Gala held last weekend, making it possible for the event to be accessible for so many. My son was part of the Warringah Rats team and it was a truly excellent event, with a great community spirit.
July 2022
I wanted to take the opportunity to thank Rugby Club Foundation Chairman Angus Bruxner, and the whole Board and staff, for their enormously generous support to grassroots rugby.
The recent State Gala was a fantastic festival of rugby and could not have gone ahead without their backing. The Rugby Club Foundation make these events financially viable and allow the children to participate in, and enjoy, our wonderful sport.
The Randwick U10 Greens sent 18 children home with new friends, new skills and big smiles on their faces. Being able to play in a representative tournament at such a young age offers an opportunity not available in other competing codes so events like this are integral for the growth and sustainability of the game.
Once again, thanks to Angus and the Board and we look forward to being part of the event for years to come.
Regards,
Coach Randwick U10 Green
July 2022
Our family is writing to thank the Board of the Rugby Club Foundation for covering the costs of the team team's entry, 1st Aid and Referee costs for the recent U10/11’s Junior Rugby competition. Our son was a representative of the U10’s Gordon Tartan’s and a representative of Lane Cove Junior Rugby Club.
It really was a fabulous weekend and amazing venue on the Central Coast. A perfect weekend of junior rugby for the boys and girls, and a fantastic atmosphere by the host clubs.
We look forward to more fantastic opportunities and events to continue the support and growth of grass-roots rugby, and appreciate the financial contribution of the Rugby Club Foundation.
July 2022
A short note to pass on my thanks for the amazing NSWJRU U10 State Gala at the weekend.
It was a great event. Lots of learning and development, friendships formed, and the parents had a great time too!
Thank you to The Rugby Club Foundation and the Chair, Angus Bruxner, for their support.
July 2022
Just a short note to pass on my sincere thankyou to Mr Bruxner and the Board of the Rugby Club Foundation.
My son participated in the U10s for Northern Suburbs and I was the coach. It was a fantastic occasion, well organized and a pleasure to be part of.
I look forward to attending again next year.
Thank you once more.
July 2022
My eldest boy played in his first rugby development gala weekend for North’s U10’s at Tuggerah.
What an incredible facility!
It was an exceptional weekend that allowed Rugby at a junior level thrive. And importantly the kids to experience all that rugby has to offer, including inspiring them about the game and the people.
Please pass on my thanks to The Rugby Club Foundation for their support. Giving so many kids from so many area’s these opportunities at these types of facilities is paramount to not only growing grass roots rugby but also interest in the game.
July 2022
My son recently participated in the above event last weekend at Tuggerah. This is our 3rd time experiencing this wonderful event with our two older son’s also being fortunate enough to participate in prior years.
It was truly an example of everything that is great about the game they play in heaven. Our son and his team mates really enjoyed the increased competition, district rivalry and have made lifelong friends. They will always remember their first taste of development rugby.
We have only just been made aware that the cost of this tournament is covered by the Rugby Club Foundation. The chairman, Mr Angus Bruxner and the board members all need to be congratulated for their on-going support of rugby at the grass roots level.
Keep up the great work.
Yours in Rugby,
Parent from Northern Suburbs
July 2022
Just a quick note to extend my thanks to The Rugby Club Foundation for their support of the recent U10's rugby tournament at the Entrance.
It was a great competition. The kids had a great time, and the event was seamlessly organised!
I understand that without the support of the Rugby Club, events like this aren't possible.
So I wanted to pass on my thanks on behalf of my son, our club and the rugby team.
July 2022
My son was selected to represent the Manly Marins at u11 age group this year at . He was selected last year also but due to COVID missed out on the opportunity to play representative level.
During the weekend I was informed that the Rugby Club Foundation covered the cost of each team's entry fee as well as paying for the referees and the first aid.
The weekend was an amazing experience for both the players and the parents. It was amazing to see so many young men and young ladies playing their games and to have all the clubs come together for this festival of rugby. Making this all possible and minimising the coast for hundreds of families across NSW is amazing and this email is to send a note of thanks.
Could you please pass on our thanks to Angus Bruxner, the board and everyone involved for this generous contribution!
Australia has a healthy and bright rugby future if this weekend was anything to go by.
Here are a bunch of happy smiling faces - and that's the spirt of rugby right there!
Thanks again.
Ben Goodland
(Vice President) Juniors, Manly Roos Junior Rugby Union Club
July 2022
On behalf of the NSW Juniors Committee, I would like to personally thank the Rugby Club Foundation for their amazing support of the NSW Junior State Championships. Without this generous contribution we would not have been able to run as effectively and welcome so many teams/Districts & Zones across so many venues.
Last weekend was our final event with the Under 10s and 11s running their gala day in the Central Coast. These are our youngest participants and the tournament is a true development one. The feedback from this event has been extraordinarily positive and it is great to see so many boys and girls getting involved in the grassroots of our game. It is difficult to properly articulate the impact your generosity has had however without such it is likely that our less financially fortunate players would not have been able to participate. Additionally the quality of our 1st Aid and Referees across last weekend and the June long weekend was exemplary and made possible through your support.
Your contribution is greatly appreciated and certainly not underestimated, we are extraordinarily grateful and amazed by everything you do for grassroots rugby.
Many many thanks
Andrew Hutton
President - NSW Junior Rugby Union
Director - NSW Rugby & Waratahs
July 2022
I just wanted to congratulate The Rugby Club Foundation on its involvement with this weekend’s u10 and u11 Development State Championships.
Some great rugby was played and some fond memories created for the players involved.
From MJRU, thanks again for your involvement in and assistance of junior rugby
Cheers
Peter Gibson
President, Manly Junior Rugby Union
July 2022
I am writing a to thank you so much for the incredible support you provided for the boys and girls - as well as their families - who were so lucky to participate in the State Gala at Tuggerah over the weekend.
It was an amazing event - so much fun for the kids and parents alike. Some lifelong memories were made.
The contribution made by The Rugby Club Foundation is greatly appreciated - there is no doubt whatsoever that it enabled many families to attend that would not have been able to without your generous support! And this made for an even more memorable event with so many regions represented, allowing teams to play against teams that they would simply never have the opportunity to play against.
The spirit of rugby was alive and well…and you guys played a huge part in this!
As President of the Raiders, I want make a special thanks on behalf of our club for the support you provide across all ages and so many of our boys and girls who participated across the weekend and all the State Championships earlier in the season.
Thank you. And respect to you and the team!
Cheers,
Luke Hannan, Raiders Junior Rugby Club President
July 2022
As Manager of the Sydney Uni U10 Team I would like to thank Chairman Angus Bruxner and his Board of The Rugby Club Foundation for their support of the NSWJU U10/U11 State Gala weekend.
It was fantastic to see so many kids and parents enjoying the game of Rugby. It was exactly 30 years since I competed in the same competition with Easts/Randwick JRU so it was wonderful to be back involved in such a great event. Without support from organisations such as The Rugby Club Foundation events such as this would not be possible and it is very much appreciated.
All the best and thanks again for the support of grassroots Rugby and future Wallabies.
July 2022
Just wanted to reach out and express thanks to yourself, Angus Bruxner and his board for what you all do for grassroots rugby.
We just attended the NSWJRU u10/U11 State Gala at Tuggerah where my son, played for Central North U11. He also had the opportunity to play for the U11 Barbarians. This was an absolute honour and very special as my dad, played for the Barbarians before he represented Queensland in the reds and Australia in the Wallabies. Dad was there to watch his grandson play and I suspect I saw a little tear escape
What an amazing weekend. Central North also came away with the GR Paton Award for Spirit of Rugby – we have some very happy and tired little boys.
So thank you again for making all of this possible!
July 2022
I am the manager for the U10 Manly Marlins teams. I am writing to share my thanks and gratitude to The Rugby Club Foundation and Chairman Angus Bruxner and his Board for what they have done in the lead up to and implementation of the Positive Rugby Foundation NSWJRU U10/U11 State Gala.
Having played representative netball all of my life I have experienced gala days just like this and the bonding, camaraderie, sportsmanship and skill development that comes as a result of participating in such an event. We couldn't have asked for a better tournament, the sun was shining, players and officials were excited and pumped and the games went off without a hitch in the spirit of rugby.
I appreciate the huge amount of organisation, liaising and financial support that goes into such an event that gives our future generations of grassroots rugby players an opportunity to perform and experience representative sport. Thank you!!!
I know for a fact that all of our players, families and officials are counting down to next year's event.
July 2022
I am the Head Coach for the mighty U11 Warringah Rats!
I have just learnt of the generosity and support from the “Rugby Club Foundation” for the Positive Rugby Foundation NSWJRU U10/U11 State Gala event that was just run up at Tuggerah.
Your support of this grass roots event is absolutely sensational. It’s so important that we continue to build the depth and strength of our young player group and your support has allowed us to do this.
I know that the U11 players (and families) from the Warringah Rats Club thoroughly enjoy this event and are hungry to RIP IN at next years U12 State Champs already. We have you, the “Rugby Club Foundation” to thank for this!
Please pass on our gratitude and thanks to the Rugby Club Foundation Board and Members group from all the families and players at the NSWJRU U10/U11 State Gala for your support.
July 2022
On behalf of Eastwood Juniors I would like to thank The Rugby Foundation for your excellent support. The boys enjoyed a wonderful State Cup.
Many Thanks
Martin Halmarick
President
July 2022
To all involved at the Rugby Club Foundation
Thank you so much for supporting an incredible weekend of rugby for the NSWJRU U10/U11 State Gala. It was my son's first experience playing at this level for the u10 Manly Marlins. We loved every minute of the weekend and it really solidified his love for rugby and all the positive things it brings on and off the field.
Thanks so much
July 2022
Could you please pass onto Angus, Peter and the rest of the Board a massive thank you for the wonderful support The Rugby Club Foundation has given the NSW Junior State Championships in 2022.
We held our U10 & U11 State Gala over the weekend and without a doubt if was the most tremendous and rewarding junior grassroots rugby event I have been involved in.
With 52 teams from all over the State competing across 7 fields over two days at the Tuggerah Sports Complex – you’d think that there would be the usual amount of angst and tension that sometimes finds its way into Rep Carnivals. But this was the most positive and harmonious rugby event possible. All the kids had smiles on their faces and all the parents and supporters were just happy to be there and be a part of a fantastic rugby experience.
The support that you gave to assist each team with their entry fees, as well as make sure we could provide a high quality level of 1st aid and referees, went a long way to making this event the success that it was.
In short it was my favourite of all rugby events and I cant thank you enough for be an enormous part of making this possible.
Hopefully you have seen some of the photos & videos across the media and socials – I know the Daily Telegraph did a couple of articles and they too acknowledged your generous contribution.
Many thanks from all of us at NSW Juniors.
cheers
Ben Gregory
VP Representative - NSW Junior Rugby Union
July 2022
I wanted to pass on my thanks to the chairman and board for putting on a well organised and run U10 and U11 State Rugby Union Championships over the weekend. We were from the Warringah U11s team and had a great time playing some great rugby, making new friends and great memories 😊
Thanks again you should be all very proud
July 2022
Massive thank you for all the 10s Illawarriors. What a awesome weekend made possible from your generosity.
July 2022
I am writing to thank The Rugby Club Foundation for supporting the State Gala weekend this weekend at Tuggerah.
It was such a fantastic experience and all the boys and girls had a brilliant time (as did their parents and families). There were so many examples of great sportsmanship within teams and also between teams. The comradery that developed over the weekend was a great reflection of the value of sport. I am truly grateful that my son got to experience such a great weekend of rugby.
Thank you again for providing so many young players for the opportunity of this experience.
July 2022
I have just spent the weekend at the U10’s State champs held at Tuggerah and would like to express my gratitude to The Rugby Club Foundation backing this event happen.
My son played for the Manly u10 blues. The weekend was such a pleasure to be part, well run, great facility, great catering, pure enjoyment could be seen across the numerous rugby pitches. The foundation for many friendships and Australian rugby success.
July 2022
Our family have just come away from a weekend of rugby for the U10s Rugby State Championships, held at Tuggerah, and one month prior, the U12s State Champs held at Camden.
Both of these events were so well organised and managed and it was an absolute pleasure to be a parent involved in such events. The players had the time of their lives playing the sport they love and have made incredible friendships and memories.
I just wanted to send a personal email to thank The Rugby Club for all that the organisation does behind the scenes, to make these events proceed and run smoothly, despite the challenges of fickle weather, Covid and juggling other equally important events.
A very big Thank you!
Kind regards
Manly Marlins Parents
July 2022
What an incredible experience we had at the Rugby Gala weekend in Tuggerah.
A huge thank you to all of those involved in putting this event together. All of our girls and boys had such a great weekend.
With the disappointment of missing out due to Covid last year, this year definitely made up for that.
Kinds regards
U11 greens Randwick Manager
July 2022
Thank you for making this weekend happen for so many of us. Our son was privileged to be selected for the Warringah Rats team and to participate this weekend, it was a fun and phenomenal experience for our family and we are truly grateful for the support, it was wonderful to see so many talented kids from so many diverse regions. We appreciate the opportunity.
July 2022
My son, of the Warringah Rats U11 White’s team, was lucky enough to attend the state cup weekend in Tuggerah over the weekend. It was an exceptional experience and one he will never forget. I wanted to thank Chairman Angus Bruxner and the board for everything they do and for their generous support in making this weekend possible for so many boys. As a parent, I very much appreciate The Rugby Club Foundation and your support of the young boys and girls coming through!
June 2022
I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank The Rugby Club Foundation for your support of youth refereeing via the recent NSWJRU State Championships and to tell you what a difference it made to participants.
I was in a unique position to observe the impact of your grant for referees; I was part of the organising committee and was also the referee convener for the U13 boys' at Dubbo.
Being able to accommodate all referees at a single location enabled us to work with our young charges well after full time had been blown on the field for the day, thus extending our development and educational time frame. It also allowed our participants (referees and referee coaches) to further meld into an effective team over a cordial meal in the evening.
The provision of a bus from Sydney to Dubbo made participation easier and more affordable for all passengers. Indeed, had the bus not been on offer, it is likely a Newcastle referee would not have participated due to the distance and expense of having his father drive him across. The success of the bus was highlighted for me, when one of the central coast referees dismissed their parents who had driven him across for him to ride back on the bus with his new mates. To my mind this is what the tournament is about with TRCF’s support; learning, developing, building great memories and making great new mates.
Further building on the notion of teamwork at the tournament was the creation and provision of a team tournament shirt and a gift hoodie. These were unbelievably well received as a token of thanks to our match official participants and as an exclusive memento of a terrific weekend. Both were only possible due to the TRCF’s generosity.
From my involvement in the pregame administration, I also know that your grant made a difference in participation for participants at other location. There were multiple instances when referee availability was freed up when parents realised that they didn’t have to attend all weekend themselves due to the provision of accommodation or because of better transport options or both.
I have personally long held the belief that you can’t get positive player development without a commensurate development with referees; please know that your support made a huge difference and has aided with the development of the 100+ match official participants.
Kind regards and thanks again for your support.
June 2022
I thought it appropriate to send a quick(ish) thank you to The Rugby Club Foundation (TRCF) for your support of the Illawarra Referees and support of Match Officials during the NSW Junior State Championships held over the June Long weekend. I was the Referee convenor for the Under 12's tournament at Camden.
Firstly many thanks to TRCF for the grant to purchase a set of Referee Communications equipment for Illawarra Referees. As you are aware we matched the grant, purchasing an additional set in the week leading into the State Championship and had hoped both sets would be delivered from Qld in time to use during the Camden Tournament. Fortunately in leaving for the tournament on Friday afternoon I was delayed by a few minutes waiting for a colleague when the courier turned up with both sets of communications gear, a rare occurrence indeed but grateful we would get a chance to test the sets out over 3 days of rugby!
My reason for leaving earlier than usual on the Friday was that I had organised to pick up a minibus that was hired to ferry the young referees and referee coaches from our accommodation outside Picton to the State Championships tournament at Camden over the 3 days. I was advised during the organising process that both the bus and accomodation were funded by the Rugby Club Foundation so once again many thanks.
It was a great opportunity to give a group of young 14-18 years old referees "a rugby experience" of living together in a tournament based rugby carnival, many for their first time. The accommodation gave us the opportunity to discuss and watch games as well as getting a group of young match officials from all over NSW bonding together and aware of nutritional requirements to keep themselves refereeing for the duration of the tournament.
The communications equipment worked fantastic and assisted our Referee coaches in developing the young referees as well as allowing "team of 3" communication between Referee and Assistant referees, especially when games stepped up on Monday and we needed to be more accurate in our decisions. It certainly made a difference and was a thrill for those young referees who used the sets for the first time.
I have been involved in these State Championships in various capacities for the best part of 15 years and I have to say that this was by far the most enjoyable and rewarding experience so far. As for TRCF support you can't get more grass roots than helping develop young match officials and the improvement shown by the boys over the weekend as well as the great time had was paramount to your support.
Thank you once again and Kind regards,
Ross Williamson
12's State Champs Convenor
Secretary, Illawarra Rugby Referees
June 2022
On behalf of the Eastern Suburbs District I would like to pass on our sincere thanks for your support and sponsorship of this great event. It was incredible to see the talent on display and the passion across each age group. Your support, including the first aid, is crucial in providing these opportunities for our young rugby players. I would also like to thank and call out the dedication and professionalism of Ben Gregory and team.
President, East Junior Beasties
June 2022
What a wonderful weekend the New England Rugby Under 14’s Boys team had in Orange.
Rugby was the winner over the Long Weekend and the standard of rugby on display was amazing.
Playing the Country Championships and the State Championships over the one weekend has a huge success.
Please can you pass on our thanks to all the people involved at Orange City Junior Rugby.
They worked tirelessly all weekend to keep everything running smoothly, kids fed (Pork was fantastic) and warm by the log fires.
A big thankyou must also go to NSW Junior Rugby Union for their organisation of the whole carnival.
Zoom meetings prior and communication was great to have us prepared for the carnival so we could just let the kids play rugby.
A massive thankyou must go to The Rugby Club Foundation, none of this would have happened without their support.
Their contribution to pay all the fees for the teams is a huge investment in the future of rugby.
Allowing these young men to take part is a key driver for the success of the game into the future.
I am sure some families would have not had boys been playing if not for their generous donation made by The Rugby Club Foundation.
Please can you pass on our thanks from all the players and parents from the New England Under 14’s Team.
A great job by everyone involved.
Regards
New England Rugby Manager
June 2022
If I may introduce myself, I was the U14 Gordon Girls coach for the State Championships at Koola Park (East Killara) this long weekend.
Beyond the appreciation and respect that we have for both Ben Gregory (GM) and Lisa Rothwell (U14 Comp Mgr), and on behalf of the Under 14 Gordon Girls side, we would like to extend our thank you for your loyal support of Junior Rugby.
By way of background, our team overcame a number of challenges and disruptions to get our squad on the park, where we had no help with COVID, Flu, rain and injuries.
Though rugby as in life, as I mentioned to them many times over the weekend, this throws us challenges that we must rise and overcome, and our girls did such that. They dusted themselves off and rose to that challenge.
The vast majority of our girls had never played State champs before, and they all came away from this weekend with an even greater love for the game.
Admittedly, they were a little despondent to not have got the silverware, parents and one and all were so very proud of what our girls achieved and how they conducted themselves throughout the weekend.
Though this had the effect of encouraging them all to keep playing, and were even more determined to come back, participate and compete again next year.
Every one of our U14 Gordon girls side are now empowered, confident young women following what they achieved over the 3 days. Where the tournament that you support, deserves all the accolades for giving them that opportunity and self-belief.
To this point we are all most very grateful.
With the continued support of the Rugby Club Foundation at this level, the future of our great game is given every opportunity it deserves.
June 2022
I would like to thank The Rugby Club Foundation and all involved in the SJRU over the long weekend. What a wonderful display of Rugby and skills from the Under 18s competition. The weather was beautiful and great for Rugby. This all could not be possible with out the hard work put in by the SJRU and countless workers behind the scene. Thank you
Assistant Coach to West Harbour
April 2022
I would personally like to reiterate Ben Gregory’s thanks and acknowledgement for your generous grant to assist with the promotion of new coaches within the ranks of SJRU, NSW Country and NSW Schools. It has been a long term objective of the NSWJRU to maintain and develop participation and inclusiveness across all areas of the game and we have identified that coach development forms a crucial role in this advancement. Your generous support will go a long way to supporting and developing existing coaches and importantly introducing new ones to our game that are of the requisite calibre.
Having the three affiliates, SJRU, Country and Schools working together has been a great step forward in our recent past and this financial support will work to strengthen the collegiate spirit and the junior game across the state.
Many thanks and kind regards
Andrew
Andrew Hutton
President - NSW Junior Rugby Union
Director - NSW Rugby & Waratahs
April 2022
I would like to echo Adam's words of appreciation and gratitude for The Rugby Club Foundation support of Junior Rugby and State Championships.
This level of support is amazing and will provide significant boost of positive sentiment to all volunteers and families involved in grass roots rugby.
Your leadership and The Rugby Club Foundation support is greatly appreciated and special mention of this commitment and support will be made within our communication channels.
Thanks again.
Kind Regards,
Jack.
GM Sydney University Football Club
April 2022
I just wanted to drop a note on behalf of both Manly Junior Rugby Union and its 5 constituent clubs – Seaforth Raiders, Harbord Harlequins, Manly Roos, Allambie Jets, Manly Savers and Forest Rugby Club - to thank The Rugby Foundation for their kind support of the 2022 NSWJRU State Championships.
The State Championships are a key part of the junior rugby calendar and your support is applauded and appreciated.
Cheers
Peter Gibson
President, Manly Junior Rugby Union
April 2022
On behalf of Randwick District I would like to sincerely thank The Rugby Club Foundation for their generous support of the NSWJRU State Championships. The State Chaps are a very special weekend for all our Junior Clubs and they could not be run without the ongoing support of organisiations like The Rugby Club Foundation. Entering teams in the State Chaps is not a cheap exercise so we appreciate any assistance which takes pressure off this area enabling everyone to focus on the footy.
Thanks again and lets hope for a great weekend of rugby in June.
Warm regards.
Arthur Spellson
President, Randwick District Junior Rugby Union
April 2022
I just want to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to the Rugby Club Foundation for the support and contribution to the State Championships in 2022.
As a district we can use the funding we would have spend for the State Championships, towards additional coaching and resources for the kids rugby development.
Once again thanks so much.
Cheers
Alistair Keep
President – Warringah Junior Rugby Union
April 2022
I just wanted to write to you say thankyou on behalf of all our Two Blues and also Rugby in the west.
As our District fields all teams with the exception of Open Girls on the NSW Positive Rugby State Championships, having our entry fees covered is of significant help.
I am also very pleased of the news of The Rugby Club Foundations support with the Two Blues Rugby Union Academy too. This type of support makes all the hard work from so many volunteers and sponsors all the more worthwhile.
Again many thanks for your support, it goes a very long way and I’m certain our other districts and zones agree.
Tim Shand
Director of Juniors | Western Sydney Two Blues Rugby Club
President | Two Blues Junior Rugby Club
April 2022
I received a note from Ben Gregory informing all clubs of the incredible act of generosity from The Rugby Club Foundation in ensuring that the costs associated with playing in the State Championships will be covered.
All our families must pay for their kit, entry and a host of other costs associated with the weekend. Making this more accessible, especially against the backdrop of spiralling costs in almost every area of our lives, will be well received.
A pillar in our junior program is ‘care’ and making sure there are qualified medical support available with a cost imposition will go down well, as is the costs of the refs.
When we get together as all teams in early June for our jersey presentation I will be sure to include a mention of what has been done for us by you and the rest of the team.
Yours in Rugby,
Adam Dunn
President, Sydney University Juniors Rugby
April 2022
This is fantastic news and incredibly generous.
Please pass on a thanks from Eastwood District and our Village clubs to The Rugby Club Foundation. This means that our funds can be directly applied to helping kids play rugby, it is a HUGE help.
Many Thanks
Martin Halmarick
Eastwood Juniors President
April 2022
On behalf of Penrith District Junior Rugby Union Club and our four village clubs, Penrith RSL Junior Rugby Union Club, Western Raptors Junior Rugby Union Club, Blue Mountains Junior Rugby Union Club and Luddenham Lions Junior Rugby Union Club, I would like to extend our gratitude to the Rugby Club Foundation for covering the costs of this years State Championships (entry fee's, referee and first aid costs).
As a small district in a league dominant area, this will give us an opportunity to repurpose those expenses and give a little more back to our players and the club members, which is a great token of appreciation after a few COVID impacted years.
We love following your journey of 'sharing the spirit of the game' and appreciate your ongoing support to grassroots rugby.
Again, we are very appreciative of your kind gesture.
Kind regards,
Sia'a Taveuveu
President, Penrith District Junior Rugby Union - PDJRU
April 2022
On behalf of all of us at WH Juniors, I wanted to reach out to say a huge thank you for your support again 2022!
Your assistance in covering the cost of all team entry fees, first aid and referees will go a long way in ensuring we run a successful campaign for all our teams representing West Harbour, as well as ensuring we run a successful day hosting the u15s tournament at Concord.
Your support does not go unnoticed.
Thank you again!
Peter Johnston
President, West Harbour Junior Rugby Club
April 2022
Can you please pass on my thankyou to the Rugby Club Foundation. I am the tour manager for three teams that will be making the trip from Perth to compete in the u15s boys and u14s girls tournaments. I believe it's the first time teams from WA have competed in the competition, the players, coaches and parents are very much looking forward to the competition and appreciate the support our teams have been receiving from the community and sponsors.
Again I thank you for your support and hope I can thank rugby foundation members in person at some stage during the tournament.
April 2022
A short email to pass on a big thanks for The Rugby Club Foundation to their support for the NSW Champs and the financial and other support they are providing for the teams and kids participating.
As a visiting club from Interstate that is already fundraising for the Tour this is a massive contribution. We have players who are struggling financially to tour and your support really counts and makes a difference to their participation and lifelong rugby touring memories!!
Thanks again.
DANTE PEEL
CHAIR OF JUNIORS & VICE-PRESIDENT
HARLEQUIN CLUB INC, MELBOURNE
April 2022
I just wanted thank you so much for your State Championships generosity. At the CCJRU we have been working overtime to make the rep program cheaper and more accessible to all players. The State championships are the absolute pinnacle of junior rugby and the thing that holds us above all other codes in junior sport. With your generosity we can get more involved in this carnival and hopefully keep kids in the game.
Thank you so much.
Shane Orr
CCJRU president
April 2022
I’d like to thank you for this generous grant to assist with the promotion of new coaches within the ranks of SJRU, NSW Country and NSW Schools.
This program will go a long way to introducing new coaches to our game that are of substantial quality needed.
A fantastic opportunity that we could not run without your generous support.
Many thanks on behalf of the three affiliate bodies of NSW Juniors
Ben Gregory
VP Representative - NSW Junior Rugby Union
April 2022
That is amazing!
Thank you to you and the Board, it will long a long way for our Academy plans and dreams.
Whenever you feel like a day out west for a game of Rugby, let me know, we would love to have you out as our guest.
Stay well.
Scott Rogan
President Western Sydney Two Blues Rugby
April 2022
On behalf of the NSW Juniors Board, all the various Zones and Districts within NSW & the external teams participating from interstate, we would like to thank the Rugby Club Foundation for their generous support of the State Championships with this grant.
These funds will allow all the teams to enter without the added burden of an entry fee which will allow them all to reduce the costs to their players associated with playing representative rugby.
It is also vitally important for us to be able to use this grant monies to facilitate a consistent standard of 1st aid at all of the State Championship venues – this will ensure that our players are able to get the highest quality level of help should an injury occur during the State Champs. The message this sends about our combined commitment to player welfare will be strong and a fantastic vehicle for promoting the junior game and our commitment to safety.
The same goes for our referee brethren and the ability to make sure our officiating will be of the highest quality over the weekend. Once again showing a wonderful commitment to the junior game.
I will be broadcasting our appreciation for your generous support far and wide and can’t tell you how fantastic it is to have your support
Could you please pass on our appreciation to your Board and please let me know if we can do anything to assist in return
Many thanks
Ben Gregory
General Manager, Sydney Junior Rugby Union