By Coventry Rugby 
Nearly 300 guests gathered in the marquee at Butts Park Arena for the Coventry Rugby Community Foundation’s inaugural fundraising lunch – a landmark event that delivered a much-needed five-figure cash boost to support our growing work in the local community.
The event marked a significant milestone in our Foundation’s mission to transform lives through sport, by promoting physical and mental wellbeing among young people from all backgrounds.
We were proud to welcome a room full of valued local business leaders, sponsors, and supporters of the club, all united by a shared belief in the power of sport to change lives. Through compelling speeches and shared stories, the afternoon highlighted the crucial role our Foundation plays in ensuring access to sport is never limited by age, gender, ethnicity, physical ability, or socioeconomic background.
Guests were treated to a superb three-course lunch, followed by a keynote speech from former Gymshark CEO Steve Hewitt, who offered inspiring insights into leadership and entrepreneurship. Former England internationals Tom Wood and Alex Waller then took to the stage for a lively Q&A session, giving guests a glimpse into life at the elite level of rugby.
A thrilling live auction rounded off the afternoon, with prizes including a private chef experience, luxury clay shooting packages, a bespoke jacket fitting, a JLR Classic Works tour, and a premium Cotswolds lakeside stay. Bidding was enthusiastic, with every pound raised going directly to our community programmes across Coventry and the surrounding region.
John Edwards, Chairman of the Coventry Rugby Community Foundation, said:
“The role the Foundation plays in conjunction with Cov Rugby is so vital. For many, it is a lifeline – which is why events like this are so important. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to this fantastic cause. Every penny raised will be channelled back into our programmes, helping to provide access, opportunity, and support to those who need it most.”
To date, over 6,000 children have participated in Foundation-supported activities at Coventry Rugby, including our flagship Project 500 – a groundbreaking initiative providing nutritious meals and multi-sports camps for disadvantaged under-16s during school holidays.
Our reach continues to expand through a variety of year-round initiatives at Butts Park Arena and in local schools. From netball and wheelchair rugby to walking rugby for over-50s and the newly launched Coventry Rugby Academy, we remain committed to inclusivity and supporting the health and wellbeing of the entire community.
Jon Sharp, Executive Chairman of Coventry Rugby, added:
“At Cov Rugby, our goal is to be a catalyst for positive change. We’re proud to support the Foundation’s mission and help create a lasting legacy of inclusion, opportunity, and transformation. The turnout at our first fundraising lunch proves the strength of belief in what we are building together.”
Following the success of this inaugural event, the Foundation is already planning for next year’s lunch – continuing our commitment to using sport as a force for good in Coventry and beyond.
