THE GLOBAL stage beckons for The Rugby Football Club after it was invited to participate in the inaugural World Amateur Rugby Festival next month.
The club, also known as Rugby Lions, have been chosen to represent England at the tournament, going up against 20 amateur clubs from the world’s greatest rugby-playing nations.
The club will select a representative team comprising players from the town where the game was born 200 years ago.
The first amateur world cup tournament will take place in France in September, running alongside the Rugby World Cup which is also being held across the Channel.
The festival will bring together around 600 players from around the world, sharing the values, passion and brotherhood of rugby football.
Lions Chairman Mal Malik said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for everyone at the Lions and indeed the town of Rugby.
“We don’t know or appreciate what we have. Rugby is one of the most recognisable names in the world with a history and heritage that other towns could only dream of.
“Having been through difficult and trying times, I am very proud that we have been able to accept the invitation.
“More importantly, we have pulled together as a town to send a representative team. The players will cherish their participation and memories will be made forever.”
Up to 20,000 spectators are expected to attend the event, which will be watched on TV and streaming services by well over a million people worldwide.
Mr Malik added: “I would urge the town – and in particular local business – to get behind the team. Your support and financial backing through sponsorship, donations and fund raising is desperately needed.”
Contact the Lions on 01788 547777 or at [email protected] for more information on sponsorship opportunities.
Visit https://tinyurl.com/2z6xr8uv to donate to the club’s fund-raising campaign.
