Pirongia Rugby and Sports Club is the oldest club in the Waikato and the third oldest in Aotearoa – with facilities to match.
Now a grant which comes with $10,000 worth of materials will help to upgrade the facilities which are used for rugby, bowls, netball, volleyball and community events.
The money comes from Bunnings Rugby Assist, launched this year as part of Bunnings Warehouse’s partnership with New Zealand Rugby. The annual $300,000 programme supports grassroots rugby clubs and communities to grow the game.
Club secretary Carl Sheridan said that fund will allow the club to continue its legacy and help to provide for the community into the future.
“Being the oldest rugby club in the region some of our buildings are older than 60 years so this grant gives us an opportunity to safeguard for the future.”
He said the restrooms and clubrooms are in need of an upgrade.
Over a third of all clubs in New Zealand submitted an entry for Bunnings Rugby Assist, demonstrating the huge need for financial and ongoing support for community rugby clubs.
Bunnings Rugby Assist ambassador, All Blacks and Waikato legend Stephen Donald said he was looking forward to seeing the positive impact of the programme on local rugby clubs and their communities.
“The support I’ve experienced and witnessed from local club rugby is so important to the players and keeps the sport thriving. It’s crucial for the next generation of rugby legends that we support grassroots rugby,” he said.
