MRRF Black tie Ball 2022

At MRRF we’re passionate about what we can do to transform the lives of children for whom every day is a challenge. The Winchester group brings together organizations who share this passion and want to make a tangible positive difference to their communities. This year the Winchester Ball raised funds for The Atlas Foundation, Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation, Cure Parkinson’s and My Name’5 Doddie. The event was supported by a variety of notable companies and figures, including KPMG, Gallagher, Haynes Boone, and our own Kyle Sinckler, whom we are proud to welcome on board as a MRRF ambassador.

In attendance we had a fantastic array of rugby players representing many generations of the game. Ex Wasps legend Peter Scrivener was our host for the evening, enthusiastically handling the night’s activities and 360 attendees. The outer edges of the room were decorated with framed memorabilia, the signed England and All Blacks jerseys standing adjacent to stunning works by a local artist. Christian Lang, director of STAR Scheme, spoke passionately about the children whose lives we were there to transform and reminded us of the common values bringing everyone together. Violinist Andrew Bernadi performed beautifully, followed by classical soprano Joanna Forest. A particular highlight of the evening was the discussion panel, which brought intimate answers to important questions from legends of the game Jason Leonard, Kyle Sincler, Chris Robshaw, and Joe Worsley. 

For MRRF, the funds generously raised are going directly to the development of our Croydon ‘Let’s Play’ initiative. Many of the South London borough’s 93,500 children live under severe social and economic pressures, conditions conducive to diminishing their potential. We believe that rugby provides a unique medium for children to engage in healthy social environments where they are supported by adults who care about them. In these spaces they can escape many of the adverse circumstances they face at home, school, or within the community, and join peers who respect and believe in them. 

The funds raised will make a genuine difference in many communities around the UK and beyond. Thank you to all those who attended and donated, and to everyone who continues to believe in the values and strength of rugby as a force for good.