The relationship will deliver both an expanded NatWest RugbyForce programme, as part of the WRU’s commitment to strengthen its member clubs, and additional benefits across other areas.
NatWest RugbyForce was launched in 2009 to help local rugby clubs to improve their facilities with the support of volunteers and the community, with a long term goal of making clubs more financially viable small businesses.
The aim of the four year partnership is to increase the number of clubs in Wales who benefit from the initiative through both the NatWest RugbyForce Weekends and new NatWest RugbyForce Ahead For Business Workshops.
More details of the 2014 NatWest RugbyForce initiative will be announced later this year, details of which will be communicated shortly.
Roger Lewis, WRU Group Executive said: “We are delighted to continue and enhance our relationship with NatWest.
“NatWest believe in the same things – that rugby clubs are the glue that hold our communities together, and that without volunteers, we wouldn’t have a vibrant club scene in Wales.
“NatWest RugbyForce is an awesome project. The NatWest RugbyForce Weekends not only help improve the look and feel of clubs around Wales, but now, in addition the Ahead for Business workshops are bringing some NatWest business expertise to clubs to help them improve their sustainability which is key and in the course of the coming months, in conjunction with NatWest, we will be taking a roadshow around Wales to share some of that knowledge with volunteers so that they can help reinvest it back into the game through clubs, villages and towns.”
Mark Douglas, NatWest Regional Director, Wales said: “Rugby is part of the fabric of Wales and grassroots clubs sit at the heart of many communities. These communities are important to us and we remain committed to strengthen those in which we live and work.
“As a former player and rugby dad myself, I spend a lot of time in rugby clubs and it’s quite clear that most grassroots clubs are totally dependent on volunteers and fundraisers that give up their spare time for the club.
“This enhanced contract with the Welsh Rugby Union means that we can get more involved with our communities and customers and ultimately support the grassroots game in Wales through the NatWest RugbyForce Weekends, and also the business seminars that help clubs to become more sustainable.”
WRU Head of Rugby Josh Lewsey added: “Having recently taken on this new role, I’m delighted that NatWest have come on board to support the game in Wales at grassroots level.
“It’s hugely important for us at the WRU to focus on the community game and the nature of NatWest’s involvement is exactly what is needed.
“In order to preserve rugby as the national sport of Wales, and for clubs to stay the true hubs of their community, it’s important to support not only their survival, but help them to achieve a prosperous future through sustainable methods such as providing best business advice and encouraging innovative use of facilities. To that end, it’s great to have NatWest on board as they are aligned with what we’re trying to do.”
Wales and Ospreys back row Ryan Jones, who was present at the launch said: “Sustainability is so important in the current climate – you want to know where your children are going to be able to play rugby and your children’s children – so it’s great to be able to give something back to the clubs and the backing from NatWest will make a genuine improvement.”
Dale Zdzieblo, secretary of Rhymney RFC said: “Opportunities like the NatWest Ahead for Business Workshop are invaluable to volunteers such as myself who are running clubs but who don’t necessarily have a business background. Any help is greatly appreciated. We are going through a transitional period on the field but our mini, junior and youth sections are strong so I’m sure that if we can become more professional off the field, that will help us on the field too.”
Robert Protheroe, Ponllanfraith RFC Events Manager added: “Any help towards small clubs like ours is gratefully received. As a rugby club, we have recognised the need to look for alternative revenue incomes, hence the establishment of my role as Events Manager.
“We have put on outdoor music events, and now through the winter months we are organising events that don’t cost too much but can generate some income, for example using characters at the club to put on a comedy night, along with a Stars in their Eyes evening, and a past players event.
“The workshop is a great boost and an inspiration for me personally and I’m looking forward to going back to the club and sharing what I’ve learned.”
