Royal Bank of Scotland has today announced that it will be extending its existing 10-year sponsorship of Scottish Rugby until 2023, further demonstrating its commitment to the sport from the community game through to the national sides.
The sponsorship extension ensures Royal Bank RugbyForce continues as a nationwide rugby programme, launched in association with Scottish Rugby with the aim of supporting amateur clubs by providing funding to improve facilities and attract new members – encouraging clubs to become community hubs with a sustainable future.
Launching from 7 November and continuing throughout the remainder of the year, this year’s programme will provide clubs with ‘Return to Rugby’ kits including directional signage, t-shirts, balls, cones, social distancing solutions and sanitation essentials, helping the team and spectators return to the sport safely, when the time comes. This will help clubs make much needed improvements to their facilities and implement required safety protocols in light of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Once the Scottish government and Scottish Rugby protocol allows, Royal Bank RugbyForce will aim to encourage local volunteers to scrum on down and take part in ‘80-minute shifts’ at their chosen club.
For younger members of the community, there may also be an opportunity to take part in outdoor sporting activities where those under 12 years of age can try their hand at a rugby fitness drill normally undertaken by their local team.
Malcolm Buchanan, Chairman, Royal Bank of Scotland, Scotland Board, said: “Royal Bank of Scotland has a longstanding commitment to rugby in Scotland. We have witnessed first-hand the impact the RugbyForce programme has made to grassroots clubs so, we are delighted to be extending our partnership with Scottish Rugby until 2023 which further solidifies our commitment to the sport.
“While the required restrictions and protocols are of course necessary, we recognise the extra cost and work they place on local clubs during what is already an extremely challenging time. It’s our hope that both the volunteer sessions and the Return to Rugby kits will help to ease some of that pressure.
“We encourage everyone to volunteer their time to support their local club as they prepare to reopen. It’s a great opportunity to get involved and become part of the local rugby community.”
Dominic McKay, Scottish Rugby’s Chief Operating Officer, said: “It is a testament to the quality of the relationship we have with Royal Bank that we can extend our partnership for a further 3 years in such challenging times. We’re delighted to be able to continue working together to deepen the relationship that has developed over the last 10 years, whilst providing additional support to both grassroots rugby and the National Teams.”
Sheila Begbie, Director of Rugby Development at Scottish Rugby, said: “It is great to see Royal Bank have committed their continued support of grassroots rugby in Scotland. Royal Bank RugbyForce is an important and popular weekend in the rugby calendar, allowing clubs to open their doors and join together to welcome new and existing members. While restrictions have made things difficult this year, the grant funding and tools Royal Bank have provided throughout this challenging period will help clubs to prepare for when rugby is able to return safely.”
To find out more about Royal Bank RugbyForce and how you can support your local club please visit the Scottish Rugby website: www.scottishrugby.org
