The Foundation Providing Financial Support for Grassroots Rugby
The Rugby Club Foundation has again demonstrated its commitment to community Rugby in announcing its funding of 26 programs that support the game at the grassroots level. From remote communities to bustling cities, from minis to seniors, this latest round of financial grants will help grow participation, strengthen community ties, support mental wellbeing, and drive inclusion across every level of the game of Rugby.
The Foundation continues to be providing more than $500,000 year on year in funding for community Rugby initiatives. Since launching its Grants Program in 2017, the Foundation has now assisted 191 grassroots Rugby projects with grants totalling more than $3.2 million.
The beneficiaries of the Foundation’s Grant Program this year include NSW Junior Rugby Union, Lloyd McDermott Development Team, Wagga Wagga Junior Rugby Union, Orange City Rugby Club, Australian Deaf Rugby Union, Sydney Women’s Rugby Union, Wauchope Rugby Union Club Juniors, Australian Barbarians Rugby Club, NSW Suburban Rugby Union, NSW Rugby Referees Association, Wheelchair Rugby Australia and ARKS Rugby Union Club.
Paula Ward, Chair of the Foundation’s Grants Committee, said: “These programs truly embody the heart and soul of rugby, as they are inclusive, resilient, and community driven. We’re especially proud to support the Northern NSW Grassroots Rugby Project, which brings four regions together to strengthen regional rugby from the ground up. What’s special about these grants isn’t just the funding – it’s the real life stories that come from them. These programs create safe spaces, forge lifelong friendships, and change lives. They grow participation but they also grow communities. The ‘good news’ stories we continue to hear remind us just how valued this support is across the rugby community.”
Luke McCormack, a Director of the Lloyd McDermott Rugby Development Team, said: “The support provided by the Foundation greatly assists Lloydies in providing opportunities to young Indigenous players. We appreciate all that you do for the game and look forward to future collaborations”.
Bev Edwards, Juniors Committee Member of the Wauchope Rugby Union Club, said: “The Rugby Club Foundation’s investment in grassroots Rugby is helping us build the next generation of players. The grant has enabled us to launch our ‘Tots to Tag to Tackle’ initiative which is already popular amongst players, coaches and parents alike. We thank the Foundation for believing in our young players and supporting Rugby development in our community.”
The Australian Deaf Rugby Union, Secretary, Johanna Plante said: “The Rugby Club Foundation grant allows increased opportunities for participation across the country including regional and remote areas. Regular training and game experience are vital for sustaining and growing Deaf Rugby and we are grateful to the Foundation for their support.”
Angus Bruxner, the Foundation’s Chairman, said: “The Foundation’s annual Grants Program remains a cornerstone of our mission to ‘Share the Spirit of the Game’.
It is once again incredibly rewarding for the Board and Members of the Foundation to deliver meaningful support to the grassroots level of our game. The tangible impact of these grants continues to reflect the very heart of our primary object.
I extend my sincere gratitude to Paula Ward, Chair of the Grants Committee and to each Grants Committee member for the astute diligence and thoughtful care they have once again brought to the review of this year’s grant applications. Their continued commitment ensures that every dollar awarded delivers maximum impact to our Rugby communities.
I also wish to thank all Directors of the Foundation for their unwavering passion and dedication. Their sustained efforts are instrumental in driving our mission forward, enhancing and enriching Rugby at the grassroots level across the country.”
Further information on the grants distributed in the 2025 financial year are available to be viewed by financial Foundation Members via the Members Portal. Please contact the office via admin@rugbyclub.com.au if you require the password.
Images: Scarred Lens Photography