Whilst the world has been somewhat quieter than normal, a new look team of seven Trustees, ably chaired by David Harris, has been beavering away for the past several months with the aim of resurrecting the Penguin Rugby charity arm. The main objective, as always, is to promote the core values and benefits of rugby.

The trustees are David Harris (Chairman), Dougie Meikle (Secretary), Stephen Herring, Tim Gabelko, Brian Cusack, Nick Penny and Martin Waite. We have been meeting on a monthly basis, by zoom, initially working on governance and trying to set up a bank account. Unfortunately, the bank account has proved the most arduous task as many banks and financial institutions are not currently taking on new charitable business. We are, however, very close to succeeding and will pass the details in due course.

Current initiatives that we are working include a potential grant to help support the construction of a pitch and clubhouse for the Rwandan national rugby team on the outskirts of Kigali.

With an eye on the fact that rugby is an inclusive sport we are in the initial stages of contacting with several organisations, including, IMAS (International Mixed Ability Sports) who are running the IMART (International Mixed Ability Rugby Tournament) in Cork in June 2022. Discussions have included noting the similarities between IMAS and the Penguins Trust and that joint ventures could include raising awareness of each other’s missions through social media and partnership work.

We have also recently provided funds to enable Belarus Youth Rugby to purchase playing kit.

Looking ahead to the autumn and and with the goal to raise funds, we are at the early stages of organising a dinner and will share the details once they are confirmed.

As we emerge from the pandemic, we are all aware of the devastating consequences of the last two years. As part of the global rugby community and reflecting on what the sport has given us all over the years, it’s maybe time to consider giving something back. Donations are always a good start. Time is another invaluable commodity that can make a huge difference in someone’s life. So, if you know of, hear of, or see an opportunity where Penguin International Rugby Football Trust could make even a small difference, please get in touch here.