Scotia banks on youth rugby

Scotiabank continued its support for grassroots rugby yesterday when its representatives braved the inclement weather at the National Park to hand over a cheque worth $770,000 to the GRFU to aid in the youth development of the discipline.

“Scotiabank believes in giving back to the community. We believe in supporting our youths so that they can achieve things in life and so it’s with pleasure we always come out,” said Scotiabank’s Relationship Officer Karen Harris.

Harris added that Scotiabank will team up annually with the union to help develop their youth players.

Some of the youth rugby players along with Scotiabank’s Robb Street staffers pose with the cheque at the National Park yesterday.
Some of the youth rugby players along with Scotiabank’s Robb Street staffers pose with the cheque at the National Park yesterday.

“We can support them in helping the youths to keep them focus and help them to develop themselves, both academically and in sports. Sports can take you places and Scotiabank believes in giving a chance to youths and that’s why we’re here.”

Youth Development Officer (YDO) of the union Troy Yhip then gave a preview on how some of the funds will be utilized.

“Through this donation, we will be launching our rugby summer camp in July, from the 6th to the 10th in the community of Buxton,” Yhip revealed.

The YDO then pointed out that the programme is not exclusive to rugby, as the youths are also exposed to reading projects, educational tours and computer classes.

President of the union, Peter Green, praised Scotiabank for their sponsorship, noting that the youth programme would have been just a pipe dream had it not been for the support of Scotiabank.

“I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to Scotiabank for stepping up to the block and batting for the youths we have here today. From these youths we will have future international rugby stars and champions. We will also be able to take youths from an environment that many not be conducive to them and place them in an environment where they can be happy and enjoy childhood life playing rugby” said Green.