Hawke’s Bay youths are set to benefit from this weekend’s Hawke’s Bay Magpies rugby games against Manawatu.
The Hawke’s Bay Rugby Union has designated the Jarrod Cunningham Youth Sports Trust as its charity for the big clash.
Trust spokesperson Damon Harvey hoped spectators would dig deep for the charity, that’s already making a significant impact in the region.
“Already this year we’ve made a commitment to put back over $55,000 into youth sport and we would like to ensure we can continue to give back for many years to come,” Mr Harvey said.
The Trust recently announced its support of junior rugby through a commitment to provide $5000 to each Ross Shield team over the next six years. It will also award one player a scholarship to attend the International Rugby Academy in Palmerston North.
The Hastings East Ross Shield Team, the first recipients on support, will be doing a gold coin collection at the game.
The Trust also supported the successful Hawke’s Bay Sports & Recreation expo and is set to announce its first sponsorship of an elite Hawke’s Bay sports person.
The Trust was set up with $750,000 being given by Jarrod Cunningham. The former Hawke’s Bay player died of motor neuron disease in 2007.
His aim was to motivate Hawke’s Bay youngsters to participate in sport.
“It’s great we have this game to raise funds as Jarrod played against Manawatu many times and was also part of the Central Vikings.”
