Belfast High School Former Pupils RFC shortlisted for bursary award

The fund rewards those who have embodied the spirit of community rugby by keeping their players and the community engaged throughout the pandemic. A total fund of £3,000 is available, tiered in three bursary levels of £1,000 each. The bursary is an extension of the SONI Real Rugby Heroes initiative which has sought to reward volunteers for their contribution to the domestic game.

Last year, SONI repurposed the programme to offer over 20 bursaries to clubs that switched their focus to supporting the community around them during the pandemic.

During lockdown, Belfast High School Former Pupils RFC organised Zoom fitness sessions, competitions, training sessions and quizzes. The club also provided every Mini and Youth child with a Rhino half-sized rugby ball.

Alan Campbell, Managing Director of SONI, said: “We’ve been inundated with worthy submissions for our Real Rugby Heroes - Game Changers bursary programme. This is a real testament to the positive impact that Ulster Rugby’s clubs have been making in the community during these most challenging of times, and we are very much looking forward to seeing who the public will select as finalists.”

The much-needed funds are intended to support clubs with the anticipated expenses of a post-pandemic return to activity.

Barry Willis, Rugby Operations Manager at Ulster Rugby said: “We have had a tremendous response to the Real Rugby Heroes - Game Changers bursary programme. From delivering food parcels, to arranging Zoom workouts, our clubs have been actively supporting their communities and keeping people across Northern Ireland connected during the pandemic. We’re excited to see which of the clubs shortlisted will be chosen as finalists.”

SONI is responsible for the safe, secure, and reliable supply of electricity into the heart of communities across Northern Ireland. Currently, SONI is developing a greener energy system which will enable the grid to handle 95% of renewable energy at any one time.

For more information on SONI visit www.soni.ltd.uk or follow on twitter: @soni_ltd and Facebook: @SONIElectricityNI

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