Club funding
Community funding provided for Berkshire Brigands The financial support will help this great club grow and develop so they can continue to encourage anyone, disability or not, to play rugby.
Berkshire Brigands, has received funding from the Community Fund, a joint initiative between the University of Reading and the John Sykes Foundation.
And it could help them take part in the International Mixed Ability Rugby Tournament, the equivalent of the Rugby World Cup. This takes place in Ireland over June.
Set up by Colin Stonehouse, a member of the Security team at the university, the club is open to anyone over 16, regardless of whether they have a disability or not.
The team has been awarded financial support to help them provide additional training for four coaches and volunteers.
He was inspired to start the team after his youngest son, Duncan, wanted to play rugby like his older brother Drew. However, he has Down Syndrome, which prevents him from taking part in contact rugby.
Head coach Duncan Jones said: “I coach the Brigands because I strongly believe in complete inclusivity in sport. Because of rugby, I have been able to travel around the world and make amazing lifetime memories.
The Community Fund backing will help the Brigands become a team that can play other mixed ability teams, social sides and regular club teams across the country.
“I feel anyone should be able to reap the many benefits of team sport, whether that be making lifelong friendships, challenging yourself or just feeling part of
20 | Rugby Blindside - Spring 2022
