The Redlands Rugby Union Club (Muddies) U15s were seeking sponsorship for a rugby trip to Argentina.
A cultural rugby tour to Buenos Aires, Argentina which came to fruition towards the end of the 2018 season as the ‘trip of a lifetime’ experience for the boys. Through rugby networks and friendships established over decades, an itinerary that was both culturally integrating and rugby based was established for the two week 2019 September school holiday period.
Between September 20th and October 4th, they played four games against four strong clubs including Argentinian rugby pedigree, Hindu Rugby Club. Established in 1935, Hindu are the premier Argentinian rugby club having often won the Top 12 first division league, provincial and national. The remaining three clubs were Uni (Mar Del Plata), Los Cardos (Tandil) and San Isidro (Buenos Aires).
The 23 strong U15 Muddies team was accompanied by a small management and coaching team and a separate self-funded tour package was offered to parents and supporters.
With a targeted fundraising total of $92,000 they reached over $60,000 which discounted the trip immensely. BRBN was able to donate $500 to their cause from the community account.
The boys had a wonderful trip and for many was the first time leaving Australia. It was well organised by local hosts who specialise in Rugby and Sporting Tours.
They team went on to win the Redland City Council 2020 Australia Day award for their fundraising efforts and their promotion of “Sport in the Redlands” in Argentina.