The Newcastle Rugby Foundation has long been a source of support and inspiration within the community, embodying the spirit and values of rugby. As the Newcastle Falcons’ Charity of the Year for the 2023/24 season, Newcastle Rugby Foundation has been able to have a successful year filled with remarkable achievements and impactful initiatives and programmes.
Central to the Newcastle Rugby Foundation’s mission is the Rugby+ Theory of Change, which uses the power of rugby to engage and inspire people of all ages. This initiative goes beyond the sport, focusing on growing skills, raising involvement, boosting wellbeing and building belonging.
The past year has been filled with notable milestones for the Newcastle Rugby Foundation making a positive difference, key highlights include:
- Community outreach projects: The Foundation has reached over 14,000 people through programmes such as Project Rugby, which aims to increase participation in the sport among traditionally underrepresented groups. Additionally, we have an employability programme, HITZ, which is run in partnership with Newcastle College, and a STEM programme, Tackling Insights, supported by the Sage Foundation, which engages young people from underprivileged areas in learning about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM).
- New projects: the game-changing Futures programme empowers individuals to reach their full potential and be the best version of themselves. Developed by British lion and NRF Ambassador Tony Underwood and Olympian Chris Cooke, together with acclaimed coach Lysa Morrison and the Newcastle Rugby Foundation Team. This innovative programme equips participants with essential personal characteristics that build relationships based on trust. Self-awareness, communication, resilience, and emotional intelligence are crucial for success in any area of life and are core elements of this work.
- Volunteer engagement: Mobilising a dedicated team of volunteers (The CAST) who have collectively contributed much of their time on matchdays, as well as events within the Foundation.
A perfect example of the positive impact of the Rugby+ initiative is Casey’s journey through our Mixed-Ability rugby sessions.
Casey was introduced to the Falcons Community Mixed-Ability rugby sessions by her friends. Since joining, she has gained confidence, learned new skills, and improved socially. Now a crucial team member, she welcomes new players and shares her knowledge from both the team and her school group.
Casey has played at Kingston Park and St James Park and looks forward to playing at Elland Road. Embracing new experiences has helped her overcome shyness, and she plans to continue playing rugby, meeting new friends, and enjoying matches across the country.
Stephen Parsons, Falcons Community Development Officer, said:
Casey’s confidence, communication, and skills have improved across all areas. She self-corrects, understands feedback, and knows when to take breaks. She has developed high skill levels in multiple sports and now seeks more challenges.”
Casey exemplifies the benefits of rugby, growing both as a player and in general life skills through the sport.
Through the partnership, Newcastle Rugby Foundation was privileged to be offered the opportunity to launch an exclusive Newcastle Falcons Charity Shirt. This special edition shirt, designed with input from the community and players alike, symbolises unity and support for the Foundation’s mission. The charity shirt has been a popular item among fans and a significant fundraising tool.
Thanks to the fantastic support from the Newcastle Falcons and their fans, the Foundation has raised over £5,000 this year. These funds are crucial for sustaining and expanding the Foundation’s programmes, ensuring they can continue to make a meaningful impact.
While the charity shirt has been a standout success, there are numerous other ways to support the Newcastle Rugby Foundation:
- Direct Donations: Contributions can be made directly through the Foundation’s Fundraising website, providing vital funds for ongoing projects.
- Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to assist with Foundation activities and events with the CAST group.
- Corporate Sponsorships: Businesses can partner with the Foundation, offering financial support and benefiting from an association with a respected community organisation.
- Easy fundraising: You can support the Foundation through the Easy Fundraising platform by donating while doing your everyday shopping. All you need to do is create an account, shop via the Easy Fundraising website, and shop as normal. For more information about Easy Fundraising and how to set up an account, click here.
The Newcastle Rugby Foundation’s recognition as the Newcastle Falcons Charity of the Year has brought significant attention and resources, enabling us to continue our exceptional work. As we look forward to another year of growth and impact, the Foundation remains dedicated to harnessing the power of rugby to create a positive difference that changes lives for good. A heartfelt thank you to Newcastle Falcons for their support and generosity.
For more information on how to get involved or to donate, visit the Newcastle Rugby Foundation’s website.