Making a difference close to home

The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation recently had the privilege of holding a parliamentary function to garner support for our ‘Let’s Play’ programme. We were elated by the enthusiasm of all those in attendance, including several notable leaders from the Croydon community.   

Madam Civic Mayor Alisa Flemming is massively supportive of the sustainable model of ‘Let’s Play’: “I truly believe this programme will make a huge difference for children and young people. As someone who is from Croydon and cares deeply about its people, it is very clear that young people will benefit from being part of something so positive.”

‘Let’s Play’ is being made possible by the highly motivated partnership between MRRF and STAR Scheme. Our joint vision was perfectly illustrated by Christian Lang, managing director of STAR Scheme: “When we take those who are in greatest need and turn them into the people that lead the future, then we create what can only be described as the perfect model.” 

Research has shown that a young person's ability to overcome Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) is greatly enhanced if they have just one adult who is emotionally available to them. Having a relationship with a trusted adult helps children build the mental fortitude and resilience that is necessary in coping with their ACEs. Inevitably, this one relationship can be the difference between a child finding themselves in a classroom rather than a custody suite. 

In March, the Foundation engaged around 140 children weekly through 4 schools. Entering into the new year, we will be collaborating with 13 schools and 3 corresponding  local clubs. This would not be possible without support from people like Tunde Olayinka, a representative of the GLA, who showed his interest saying, “I was so encouraged by the values and ethos of The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation and what they have already achieved for schools in Croydon to date. They are a great example of our policies for strengthening communities, improving access to sporting activities, strengthening civil life, supporting young people, and tackling inequalities while helping them find access to mentors and always available adults”. 

The predominant mood was perhaps best expressed by MP Sarah Jones: “Croydon has the largest number of young people in any London borough, many of whom do not have the right support system in place both at home or in school. I am confident that MRRF&STAR will establish a positive influence within the community, because I believe that values of discipline, commitment and cooperation are vital to a child’s development. Rugby has a way of creating and inspiring unity, and the people of Croydon will only benefit from this programme.”

Rugby has the potential to be an immensely powerful influence in Croydon. Through its respectful bonds with teammates, opponents, coaches and referees, it instills values which go beyond the rugby pitch. Matt believed wholeheartedly in the ability of the game to strengthen communities, and MRRF hopes to bring Croydon into our growing whānau. 

It’s well documented that the area has many underprivileged neighbourhoods, whose younger members face significant challenges. Amongst the school-age population there’s a high incidence of ACE (Adverse Childhood Experience), leaving these kids severely disadvantaged in terms of education and employment prospects. Furthermore, the lure of unhealthy influences is undoubtedly prevalent, making it all too easy for them to lose their way.

But unquestionably there’s a vast untapped wealth of potential amongst Croydon’s young people. A terrifically promising, talented, resourceful community, benefiting from a healthy cultural diversity. We at the Foundation are determined to provide them with an environment where they may flourish.

Our “Let’s Play Rugby” initiative aims to get them doing just that. In short there are vast numbers of kids who would not otherwise get the opportunity to try the game, and equally importantly to experience the uniquely supportive and tolerant ethos it advocates. 

Principally it’s a structured 12 week rugby programme, led by our fully qualified coaches, which we bring to locals, initially via the school system. All students between 10 and 17, regardless of sporting ability, are welcome to enrol and encouraged to do so. Ultimately the goal is to give these youngsters a comprehensive introduction to rugby and its wider values, specifically the Foundation’s core principles.

The provision of meaningful ongoing support after this brief introductory course is critical. Continuity and consistency is key. Enduring contact with reliable adult guidance is crucial to the welfare of these youngsters. We are committed to being there for them as they progress, develop and face further challenges. We will provide the nurturing framework for them to connect with their local club, thereby continuing their rugby journey. 

Our intention is that this will provide the positive environment which they might not otherwise have access to, and an ongoing opportunity for them to excel and progress, continuously championed by the Foundation. The intended outcome is twofold: That they will have been welcomed into an accepting and supportive new community, and also acquired valuable life skills and confidence in their social mobility to access opportunities that might otherwise have been denied them, whatever future they aspire to.

Initially the Let’s Play Rugby programme has been rolled out in four schools across the three constituency areas, Croydon North, Central and South. We’ve already seen an encouraging take-up, with an average 15-20 pupils, and a healthy mix of genders, getting involved in each case. 

The endorsement of local MPs, community leaders and businesses only reinforces our confidence that we can provide a vital resource that the borough is missing. We recognise that local youngsters have voiced their frustration at the lack of accessible and affordable sports facilities. With pandemic restrictions no longer holding us up, we’re bursting with energy to grow not only the numbers we can support, but also the quality of the coaching and mentoring that each individual receives.

Our tireless Programme Lead Lucy Ware remains focused on successfully implementing these first courses and simultaneously developing our wider reach into more schools:  “Our commitment is to offer every participant the resources and expert guidance to grow confidently in the game, regardless of technical ability, and ultimately, by forging an ongoing bond with a club, to feel part of the rugby family. With the byproduct being those who otherwise are unclear what’s ahead in their future, finding one that is free from crime, violence or uncertainty”.