September 30, 2025

Harrison Foundation Backs Ponteland RFC’s Community Coaching & Development Programme

At the Harrison Foundation, we believe that strong communities are built from the ground up. Whether through education, skills, or sport, our mission has always been to invest in initiatives that create opportunities, unlock potential and bring people together. That’s why we’re proud to announce a £20,000 investment in Ponteland Rugby Club’s new Community Coaching & Development Programme – a pioneering project designed to grow grassroots rugby and inspire the next generation across Northumberland.

Rugby is a sport that is built on teamwork, respect, resilience and friendship. Yet for many children, the chance to experience the game has been out of reach. This new programme, launched by Ponteland RFC in collaboration with All Stars Sports, aims to change that.

Over the coming months, schools across the region will benefit from professional coaching sessions, workshops and community events designed to introduce pupils to the game, many for the very first time. By taking rugby directly into classrooms and playgrounds, the initiative will break down barriers and make the sport accessible, fun and inclusive for all.

The programme is about more than just learning how to pass a ball or score a try. It’s about building confidence, encouraging young people to support one another and helping them discover the joy of being part of a team. These are lessons that last a lifetime – both on and off the pitch.

This investment reflects the Harrison Foundation’s long-standing commitment to supporting projects that strengthen communities. For us, grassroots sport has always been a powerful way to engage young people, promote health and wellbeing and teach essential life skills.

Harrison Foundation trustee Daniel Harrison MBE visited Ponteland RFC, a club he also used to play for, to meet the new programme’s coaching team.

Daniel said: “We are delighted to support Ponteland Rugby Club in bringing rugby to more young people across the region. Sport has the power to inspire, build resilience and bring communities together – and this programme will ensure that pupils of all abilities have the chance to take part and thrive. Our mission is about investing in local communities and helping people to reach their potential and this initiative does exactly that.”

Ponteland RFC embodies this same vision. A true community club, it has long been committed to inclusion, accessibility and opportunity for all. The Community Coaching & Development Programme builds on this foundation by opening the door to rugby for every child who wants to give it a try, regardless of background or ability.

For Ponteland RFC, this support represents a transformative step forward. The club, affectionately known as the Mighty Maroons, has deep roots in the local area and a proud tradition of welcoming players of all ages. With the backing of the Harrison Foundation, the club can now expand its reach far beyond the touchline.

John Chappell, Chairman of Ponteland RFC, added:

“This investment from the Harrison Foundation is transformative for our club and the wider community. By taking rugby directly into schools, we can make the sport accessible, fun, and inclusive for hundreds of children. With the support of All Stars Sports, we’re building a pathway that gives every pupil the chance to discover rugby, develop new skills, and be part of the Mighty Maroons family. For us, rugby isn’t just about sport – it’s about investing in young people and strengthening our community.”

The launch of the Community Coaching & Development Programme is just the beginning of an ambitious strategy for Ponteland RFC. With the Harrison Foundation’s support, the club is set to become a driving force for grassroots rugby across the region, championing participation and promoting the positive values that sport brings to everyday life.

For the Harrison Foundation, this partnership is another step in our ongoing mission to invest in projects that change lives. Whether through rugby, education, or skills training, our goal remains the same: to ensure that every individual has the tools, confidence and opportunities to succeed. Together with Ponteland RFC and All Stars Sports, we are proud to be building a future where young people across Northumberland can thrive – on the pitch, in the classroom, and within their communities.