New Zealand Community Trust has awarded the Rotoiti Sports and Community Association’s Sports Club in Rotorua a grant of $1,800 for new rugby jerseys and kit bags, enabling two junior girls’ teams to proudly look sharp and united at this year’s national global rugby tournament in Wellington.

“Rugby has always been much more than just a game for our community,” club chairperson Tammy Gardiner said.

“It’s a way for our tamariki and mokopuna to connect with one another, stay active and healthy, and to proudly represent the place they call home.”

Gardiner said with over 130 tamariki registered to play rugby, the club’s junior programme has grown rapidly.

“This ongoing increase in numbers has created a constant need for new playing uniforms across the grades. In the past, many uniforms were worn out, mismatched, or no longer fit the growing demand.

“Providing proper uniforms ensures every child feels part of the team, equal to their peers, and proud to stand on the field under the colours of their club,” Gardiner said.

A grant of $1,800 from NZCT for new rugby jerseys and kit bags ensures the two junior girls’ teams will look sharp and united at this year’s national global rugby tournament in Wellington. Photo / Supplied.

Rotoiti Sports & Community Association is a small rural rugby club with over a century of grassroots heritage. Junior rugby has been played by the club for more than 50 years, showing a long-standing commitment to developing young talent and promoting participation at all levels. The club is a cornerstone of the local community, bringing generations of players and supporters together to share their love of rugby.

“NZCT’s support enabled us to provide uniforms for our seven JAB rugby teams,” coach Victoria Grant said.

“Our tamariki and mokopuna wear them with pride, reflecting not only their connection to the club, but also the mana of our community. As a coach, I’ve seen how the new uniforms have lifted their confidence as they can now step onto the field with real pride, knowing they are playing for something bigger than just themselves.”

Rotoiti Sports and Community Association’s Sports Club has been given a grant of $1,800 from NZCT for new rugby jerseys and kit bags for their two junior teams. Photo / Supplied.

NZCT’s GM of Grants, Marketing and Communications, Ben Hodges said clubs like Rotoiti bring the community together.

“Even small things, like new gear, help tamariki and their whānau enjoy rugby and feel part of something special,” Hodges said.

“Support like this is made possible thanks to the responsible gaming partnerships we have with our local venues, Kasper’s Sports Bar and Mo’s Bar.”

New Zealand Community Trust is one of the largest gaming societies in New Zealand. In 2023/24, NZCT awarded over $40 million in grants for a wide range of community services, including sports, rescue services, youth development, the Arts, and cultural activities.

Click here for more on NZCT’s grants programme, harm prevention approach, and partnership with hospitality venues throughout New Zealand.