MELKSHAM Fawns girls under 12’s rugby team were fundraising at Asda recently to help them cover costs to travel to Cardiff to play a match on Sunday 5th November and to raise funds for the club.
As part of their fundraising, parents and coaches trained on stationary bikes outside the supermarket on Saturday 7th October, as they prepare to take on a 100-mile cycle challenge, that will see some cycling to Cardiff on the day before the match.
“Due to the shortage of young girls’ teams like the Fawns in the surrounding area, the young team will have to travel far and wide and Cardiff is a fair distance for some to afford,” says coach of Melksham Fawns, Lawrence Brill.
“I want to thank the parents for putting on the fundraising event. It shows their dedication towards Melksham Fawns team. Due to the lack of girls’ rugby in the area, the money raised will be going towards ensuring all the girls can get to away games, especially our away game in Cardiff on 5th November. This would not have been made possible if it were not for the residents of Melksham gifting so generously. The Melksham Fawns thank you for generosity.”
The Fawns have so far raised £900 but plan to keep fundraising to cover the cost of transport to matches, to purchase equipment and uniforms, to help keep the sport affordable for low-income families and to cover the cost of local referees and officials.
A player for Melksham Fawns, Sophie Cox said, “We had so much fun at the fundraising event at Asda. I can’t believe how generous the local people are, especially the customers at Asda. We’re able to now put the money towards our amazing girls’ team. We’re so, so lucky to have such a wonderful community. We’ll now be able to buy additional stuff for our team and also help with our transportation.”
The girls’ rugby team played their first game at Melksham Rugby Club on 1st October against Ashley Down Old Boys and Weston Hornets.
“The surrounding areas are struggling with girls competing in rugby but through the hard work of Melksham Rugby club we are lucky enough to have a thriving girls’ team,” said a spokesperson for Melksham Rugby Club. “Research shows that many young girls leave rugby as they don’t get the enjoyment, encouragement or opportunity to participate. Melksham Rugby Club is trying and succeeding to support young women play rugby and be part of a community. The young girls learn teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship that are invaluable in growing up.”
To support the club’s fundraising, visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/U1112melkshamfawns