Surrey-based Old Reigatian Rugby Club have launched an initiative in which they have combined with volunteers from the United Ukraine Foundation and the United Kingdom to help young Ukrainian refugees play rugby.

The initiative which is called ‘Train for Ukraine’ is aimed at supporting these children through sport to find safe and fun environments where they can make new friends and join a community and feel welcome.

Old Reigatian issued a press statement in which they urged the public to support the initiative, which includes raising funds through a rugby match between Old Reigatian and Old Colfeians later this month.

“Many Ukrainian refugees have arrived in the UK with nothing! They are trying to integrate into local communities whilst starting a new life,” read the statement.

“Rugby is a great way for them to meet people and feel part of a team and the wider community. ‘Train for Ukraine’ aims to help rugby clubs reach out to the local Ukrainian community and welcome them into the rugby community.

“On average it costs £300 for an adult and £150 for a junior club membership. By selling rugby shirts ‘Train for Ukraine’ will raise funds to support club bursaries. Allowing adults and youths to join their local rugby club.

“A special match on October 29 between Old Reigatian and Old Colfeians will launch the campaign. This will provide the springboard for the idea so other clubs can follow.

“The initiative is also supported by the amazing team at Akuma Sports. They have donated their expertise to get the concept off the ground. The team have created the amazing shirts ORRFC (Old Reigatian) first team will be playing in.”

The statement continued: “Each of the playing shirts will be auctioned off after the game. Training t-shirts will be available to order on the day or via the ORRFC website. All proceeds go towards supporting ‘Train for Ukraine’.

“We are starting with Rugby as Ukraine has a rich rugby history and always epitomise the values of game. However, the ‘Train for Ukraine’ initiative is one which any sports club can take up.”

Ukraine has a rich rugby history and through Old Reigatian RFC ‘Train for Ukraine’ are excited to be launching their first event. Their long-term plan is to create a footprint that other clubs and sports can follow so more Ukrainian children can become part of the wider sporting community.

A ‘Train for Ukraine’ spokesperson said if a child wants to play football, they would happily support them and work with local clubs.

1. On October 29, Old Reigatian will play in a once off kit designed by Akuma sports in that match against Old Colfeians. The will be auctioned off at the end of the match to raise money for the charity and they will also sell replica kits and collections on the day.

2. Click on the link for their just giving page for donations.

3. Through sponsorship. In order to get more clubs to create their own events we need a successful launch event and I am hoping this is where you might be able to help, by raising awareness.

Formed in 1927, the RFU accredited Old Reigatian RFC is one of the most spectacular sporting grounds in Surrey.

With a wealth of history and comprising of 30 acres of land the club offers six playing pitches a training pitch and outstanding club facilities. There are two senior sides, a veterans team and an U21 team. There is also minis, juniors and girls sections totalling more than 600 children. More recently formed sections include touch rugby, walking rugby and senior women’s rugby. They offer rugby to everyone, whatever age or ability.

For more information about ‘Train for Ukraine’, contact Tom Brading on 07770 678 966.

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