PRFU Launches Big Brother Club Program for 2009

To welcome 2009, the PRFU Board and its member-clubs have decided to expand and step-up their efforts in taking the Sport of Rugby Union to the underprivileged youth in orphanages and charitable foundations. The PRFU introduces a new 2009 Sponsorship Program that focuses on overseas Rugby Union Clubs becoming “Big Brothers” to the new expansion clubs and foundations here in the Philippines. The three main areas on which development will be focused include Orphanages & Charitable Foundations, Philippine Police Academies & Military Forces and Expansion Clubs.

Some of the Philippines’ most exciting and skillful young players have started their careers in these foundations and it is truly an inspiring experience to coach and teach these young athletes and achieve results that any parents would admire in their own sons and daughters. Some of these players have already represented their country in the sport of Rugby Union at the under-20 level and will provide the basis of future Filipino National Rugby Union Teams

Over the past few years, many famous International players have visited the Philippines to support Rugby Union Development. With the likes of Nick Farr–Jones, Gavin Hastings and Joel Stransky all praising the efforts of the PRFU and their work in promoting and teaching the sport of Rugby Union in the Philippines, it is hoped that other international clubs and associations will follow suit and provide the much needed funding, to not only start these development programs, but provide a structure that can ultimately help create sustainable Rugby Union Clubs.

While much has been said about the Filipinos’ natural ability and enthusiasm to learn and play the sport of Rugby, the harsh reality is that the average income in the Philippines is USD $200 per month, which equates to $8 per day to eat, sleep, work and live. As such, to encourage the average Filipino worker to participate in any sport, transportation, food, kit and coaching need to be provided, as these are expenses they cannot afford to fund on their own. The Philippines has a population of 90 million people of whom 5% are currently living in orphanages or charitable foundations. The PRFU currently support and provide Rugby Coaching at three foundations including:

1. Bahay Bata Orphanage, Angeles City, Pampanga
2. Tuloy Foundation, Metro Manila
3. Give a Life Foundation, Filipino Hospitals.

The PRFU believe that established Rugby Union Clubs overseas have a keen understanding of the costs and requirements associated with Rugby Union development. Thus, they would welcome the prospect of providing those who are less fortunate with the great opportunity to learn and play the sport and use it a stepping stone to a better life. Aligning themselves with and taking an important role in the growth of a developing club would definitely be a feather in the cap of any Rugby Union Club.

Interested clubs and associations can click on the link provided below to learn more about how they can assist the specific clubs and foundations that require financial support. The PRFU can also place interested parties in contact with several former International players and Captains who have visited the Philippines and can attest to the development work that is currently being undertaken in the country. Any questions or requests for additional information can be directed to Matthew Cullen, the PRFU National Coach and Consultant.

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