Two organizations focused on youth rugby in BC have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to work together to promote youth rugby in BC.
Both organizations have former Canada national team players of Indigenous heritage in leadership positions. Phil Mack of the Toquaht Nation represented Thunder rugby and Clay Panga of Maori descent represented Grassroots Rugby at the signing.
Quotes from both organizations are below.
As a past Thunder coach and big supporter of indigenous sports, I am extremely excited to enter into the partnership with Thunder Rugby.
Thunder has done many great things for our rugby community and has significantly advanced the landscape for Indigenous rugby in Canada. I look forward to continuing to enhance and deliver meaningful and life changing experiences for youth of all backgrounds. Thank you to Phil, John and Mark for making this dream reality.
Clay Panga – CEO BC Grassroots Rugby Foundation
BC Grassroots Rugby has created an exciting organization for growing youth rugby. Under the leadership of Clay Panga they have the staff and structure to make an impact and deliver quality programming across BC. Clay, who is of New Zealand Maori heritage, has a deep appreciation of the benefits that rugby participation can bring to Indigenous youth. Clay has coached Thunder youth on several occasions, including a trip through Prince Rupert to Morricetown with his wife Barbara and Thunder player Crosby Stewart.
We’re excited to partner with quality grassroot organizations like BC Grassroots Rugby to grow rugby and provide Indigenous youth with additional opportunities for growth and development.
Gilaskas’la
John Lyall Director,Thunder Rugby
Links to their pages and social media accounts are as follows:
Thunder Rugby
Website: http://thunderrugby.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThunderIndigenousRugby
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThunderRugbyCA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thunder_rugby/
Grassroots Rugby
Website: https://grassrootsrugby.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bcgrassroots
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BcGrassroots
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bc_grassrootsrugby/
