Clondalkin Rugby Football Club: Local National Lottery Good Cause Fuelling Excitement for Ireland’s Rugby World Cup journey
Excitement is building amongst rugby enthusiasts across the nation as Ireland's World Cup odyssey continues, with their next clash against Scotland set for this Saturday. However, for Clondalkin Rugby Club, this Rugby World Cup carries an added layer of significance, with their connection to members of the Irish Rugby team.
Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Clondalkin Rugby Club and their link to the world's most prestigious rugby competition.
Clondalkin Rugby Club: Cultivating Community, Building Rugby Dreams
In the heart of Clondalkin, a community-driven rugby club, stands as a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship and inclusion. Clondalkin Rugby Football Club, though nestled in a non-traditional rugby stronghold, has been weaving a narrative of accessibility, growth, and camaraderie for years.
Community at the Core
At Clondalkin RFC, community is in its veins. With over 400 paid and active members, this entirely volunteer-run club has shattered the stereotype of rugby as an exclusive sport. Subscription, sponsorship, and dedicated member fundraising form the lifeblood of this club, fueling their mission to open rugby's doors to all.
A Rugby Family
The club boasts three senior men's teams, two senior women's teams, and an inclusive rugby section that embodies the spirit of acceptance.
What sets them apart is their commitment to nurturing future stars. Current and former senior players enthusiastically mentor the teams, imparting the wisdom of the game. Past and present members of the Irish Rugby Team have been known to visit Clondalkin Rugby Football Club to inspire and encourage the club's budding talents.
Inclusivity in Action
Since 2020, Clondalkin has championed an Inclusive Tag Rugby program. This format allows people of all ages, genders, and abilities to play rugby in a competitive yet friendly manner, without physical contact. Their goal is clear: to provide young people with learning and physical disabilities, a safe, enjoyable environment to play tag rugby and build essential social skills and self-confidence. This initiative not only improves physical well-being but also breaks down social barriers by emphasizing teamwork and collaboration. Most importantly, it's delivered by generous volunteers, many of them young players.
The Heart of the Club
“Inclusive Rugby is easily the best thing we have done between the Covid Lockdowns, and as a club, it is our most rewarding initiative," says Gerry Gilligan President - Clondalkin RFC. The initiative reflects the club's commitment to making a difference in the lives of those they touch.
“On behalf of Clondalkin Rugby Football Club, I extend our heartfelt best wishes to the Irish Rugby Team, our boys in green, as they embark on their World Cup journey. As a club intertwined with the spirit of rugby - we hope you go all the way!'" he added.
National Lottery: County Winner in the Sport Category in this year's Good Causes Awards
National Lottery funding has played a pivotal role in shaping Clondalkin RFC's journey. It's been instrumental in developing a vibrant, welcoming club environment and providing essential facilities that encourage participation at all levels.
Recent funding enabled them to acquire a commercial grass mowing machine, empowering member volunteers to maintain their natural grass pitches and redirect saved funds towards co-financing a Club Community Rugby Officer.
These officers work tirelessly to expand the game of rugby within the local community, bridging the gap and making the sport accessible to everyone.
Clondalkin Rugby Football Club’s association with the National Lottery is more than just support through Sport grants; it's a testament to the power of collaboration in creating positive change within the community.
At Clondalkin RFC, rugby isn't just a game; it's a beacon of unity, inclusivity, and the unwavering spirit of a community that believes in the transformative power of sport. Together, they continue to build dreams and break barriers, one ‘try’ at a time.