The Canadian Rugby Foundation approved at its AGM on November 10^th, 2011 the transfer of the employment contract of its Executive Director, Matthuw Ronald-Jones, to Rugby Canada to lead fundraising initiatives and to continue building on the momentum from Canada’s success at last month’s Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

 

The Membership recognized the significant contribution of Matthuw Ronald-Jones and the growth of the Foundation and in particular the milestone of surpassing $2,000,000 in endowed funds at the end of its last fiscal year.

 

The Canadian Rugby Foundation received over $600,000 in tax-deductible donations this past fiscal year, the most funds in its 9 year existence.  Critical was the completion of the last tranche of Gren Thomas' founding pledge of $1,000,000.  In keeping with its goal of “Investing in the Future of Canadian Rugby” over $200,000 was granted back this past year to support the development of youth rugby in Canada.

 

"The desire of Rugby Canada to embark on this new challenge intersects well with the need for the Canadian Rugby Foundation to consolidate its resources and continue with its operations on a sustainable and conservative manner as it has done since 2003" stated Ronald-Jones.

 

The Membership of Canadian Rugby Foundation reiterated the need to retain its independence and concentrate on the growth of endowments while supporting the growth of Canadian rugby.

 

For its part Rugby Canada Chairman, Rick Bourne expressed gratitude for the work the Canadian Rugby Foundation has done in conjunction with Rugby Canada over the years including the raising of significant funds for the National Sevens and U20 programs.

 

“This is a wonderful opportunity which will lead, strengthen and greatly assist and support our future Rugby athletes in order that we continue to be more competitive in International competition.” stated Rick Bourne

 

The Directors of the Canadian Rugby Foundation expressed their belief that the Canadian Rugby Foundation would continue to be a significant partner in rugby endeavours and programs in Canada not only through Rugby Canada but in conjunction with its established and growing scholarships, bursaries and club funds.

 

Matthuw Ronald-Jones will be based out of Rugby Canada’s new office in the City of Langford with a primary focus of fundraising to support the Centre of Excellence which will be the nucleus for developing Canada’s young male and female athletes to be more competitive on the world stage.

 

Operations at the Canadian Rugby Foundation will continue to function in the same manner as in years past, however under the guidance of its independent voluntary Board of Directors.

 

For more information on the Canadian Rugby Foundation, please email info@canadianrugbyfoundation.ca or call (250) 386-5350.

 

Yours in Rugby,

 

Michael Holmes, Chairman

Canadian Rugby Foundation