Warriors support Gareth Simpson’s Rugby Recycled initiative

Worcester Warriors and Warriors Community Foundation are supporting Rugby Recycled, an initiative launched by scrum-half Gareth Simpson ten years ago to provide used rugby kit and equipment to under-privileged youngsters.

Simpson launched the initiative while he was at high school in Durban in South Africa and he played against a development team from a local township, some of whose players played in trainers, school shoes or even bare feet.

From small beginnings, Rugby Recycled grown rapidly and has been able to provide kit and equipment to thousands of youngsters to enable them to play rugby.

“What started out as a small project to collect second-hand rugby boots from my friends at school has turned into something bigger than I could ever have imagined,” Simpson said.

“Rugby Recycled has been able to help thousands of players over the years through the donation of rugby boots and equipment.

“I will never forget the first time I saw the pure joy and excitement that a second-hand pair of rugby boots can bring to a child who is less fortunate but equally passionate about the game of rugby as I am.”

Warriors and the Foundation are now supporting Rugby Recycled by helping to collect used kit which will then be distributed locally and in South Africa.

A collection bin has been placed in main reception at Sixways for supporters to donate any used kit or boots. Reception is open between 9am and 3pm Monday to Friday. All kit and equipment should be cleaned.

Warriors Community Rugby and Warriors Community Foundation staff have been in contact with local clubs and schools and will also be distributing collection bins to those who have kit and equipment they wish to donate to Rugby Recycled.

Carol Hart, Head of Warriors Community Foundation, said: “Worcester Warriors and the Warriors Community Foundation are right behind Gareth’s vision to provide kit for young people in under-privileged areas of South Africa but also for under-privileged young people in our own community.

“No child should have to play sport without boots on their feet.  It is also important to feel included and part of a team. “This is why we are asking clubs and community organisations to support this cause by donating team kits that are not longer needed. This  gift would mean the absolute world to less fortunate people both locally and in Africa.”

Simpson also hopes that other Gallagher Premiership, Guinness Pro-14 and Greene King IPA Championship clubs, will be able to donate unwanted kit, boots and equipment to Rugby Recycled.

For further information about how to support Rugby Recycled contact: rugby_recycled@outlook.com

You can keep up to date with Rugby Recycled on social media: Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

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