Pupils at Haberdashers’ Abraham Darby Academy in Telford have commenced a fundraising campaign with the objective of realising their aspiration to embark on a rugby tour to South America in 2025. The primary aim is to raise £10,000 to underwrite the expenses associated with the excursion, which will encompass a contingent of 26 students from Years 10 and 11.
Will Bennett, the head of rugby at Abraham Darby Academy, has underscored that the tour is poised to deliver a unique and transformative experience for the participating students. He has also underscored the beneficial influence of rugby on the students, underscoring the pivotal role of the sport in nurturing personal and team skills, discipline, and a robust work ethic. Additionally, the success of the academy’s rugby teams has served as a source of inspiration and positive influence on other students.
The proposed sojourn to South America is not solely oriented around rugby matches; it seeks to expose the students to novel cultural experiences and avenues for personal development, such as visiting the Iguazu falls and acquainting themselves with the Gaucho cowboy tradition in Argentina. The itinerary also encompasses matches against esteemed school rugby teams in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina.
In order to reach their fundraising target, the school is appealing to the community for contributions, and is also actively seeking sponsorship from local enterprises. Any backing received will be pivotal in ensuring the realisation of the tour as envisaged. Enterprises that extend sponsorship will have the opportunity to showcase their branding on the team’s jerseys.
Those desiring to make a contribution to the fundraising endeavour or explore sponsorship prospects have been urged to liaise with Will Bennett, the head of rugby at Abraham Darby Academy. Contact details have been provided for individuals seeking to partake in support of the initiative.
The significance of the upcoming tour has not escaped the notice of the academy, which boasts a rich rugby tradition. Whilst rugby had been a focal point in the past, the school recalibrated its priorities in the late 1990s. Nonetheless, recent years have witnessed a resurgence of interest in the sport, with the school implementing an extensive rugby programme that has achieved success at both local and national levels.
The school’s unwavering commitment to rugby has been demonstrated through the involvement of all age groups in training and competitions, in addition to the notable triumph of the year eight, nine, and ten teams as County Cup winners.
The fundraising campaign for the South America rugby tour exemplifies the dedication and zeal of the students, faculty, and supporters of Abraham Darby Academy in the pursuit of their objectives. The potential impact of the tour on the lives of the participating students serves as a compelling impetus to galvanise support for this initiative and contribute to its triumph.