A group of coaches and parents from Ilkley Rugby Club will face each other head on in a tournament set to raise funds for a local children’s charity.
The inaugural Ilkley RFC Juniors International T5s Tag Tournament will take place at on Sunday 7 April in aid of The Principle Trust, which provides free respite breaks to children who are underprivileged, disadvantaged, disabled, have life-limiting conditions, or who have experienced poverty, trauma or abuse.
The showdown kicks off at 11.30 at Ilkley Rugby Club and is supported by a raft of local businesses and individuals either sponsoring teams or providing services on the day.
The tournament will see 96 players, comprising coaches, parents and guests, form 12 teams, each battling their way to the final which is scheduled for 12.50pm. Progression through the stages will be fast and furious, with each match lasting just five minutes. Touchline activities for spectators will add to the entertainment.
The tournament has been organised by Ilkley RFC’s Under 9 coaching team. Lead organiser Pete Small said the event aims to raise £1000 for the charity.
‘I’m looking forward to a fantastic event and to raising as much money as possible to fund respite breaks for needy children across Yorkshire. We’re hoping to see lots of supporters on the sidelines in a skirmish that promises to be fast, furious and fun’, he commented.
Every year the Trust provides respite breaks for hundreds of children experiencing long term, life threatening or limiting illnesses disabilities, mental health issues or social deprivation.
Established in 2011 by Ilkley businessman Mike Davies, MBE, over the last 13 years the charity has raised over £1.6m, developed a portfolio of holiday properties and provided breaks for 5000 children.
For detail of the team lineup, visit www.ilkleyrfc.co.uk. To donate visit https://localgiving.org/fundraising/the-ilkley-rfc-juniors-international-t5s/