Securing a £200 grant from Broadacres Housing Association, through its Community Development Fund, ensures youngsters at Yarm Community Rugby Club will have top-quality equipment to help them learn the game.
Chairman Dave Jones says the value of the club can be measured not only in the physical benefits it brings, but also through its social and mental health benefits.
He said: “I know of both adult and teenagers who would no longer be with us if it wasn’t for the rugby club.
“The sport gives you a sense of belonging and of self-worth, it helps combat loneliness and provides an outlet to burn off energy, anger and frustration.”
The club was founded in 1997, as the new kid on the block, competing alongside much more established clubs, some dating back over 100 years.
The club, which started as a single men’s team, has since expanded to include a junior section and a women’s team. It is now open to children and adults of all abilities.
Just three years ago, the club members found themselves with just one pitch, which led to teams folding. Then later, the clubhouse they used was burned down and the future looked bleak.
But through a partnership with a local school and cricket club, they were able to rebuild and now have male and female adult teams as well as seven teams for boys and girls.
Similarly, a break-in in 2023 caused an estimated £5,000 of damage to their facilities. But just two days later, the club’s fundraising page raised £1,000 in donations to help cover the costs.
This positive display of support indicates that this sports club is still held in the hearts of the local community.
“We might not have the clubhouse and changing rooms to compare with other clubs but we make up for that by providing the best kit and equipment we can,” said Dave.
“The donation from Broadacres is very welcome and will be used to provide some much-needed rugby balls to support our growth in numbers.”
The Broadacres Community Development Fund supports local organisations, groups, and projects in areas where Broadacres has homes. All grants are approved by the Association’s own residents.
