Friends of Bristol Shoguns update

sponsored
By Big Dave
October 14 2003

Back in January, Malcolm Pearce appealed to the city and community of Bristol to back its rugby club. Supporters began raising funds to sponsor a player. The initial target of £500 was easily achieved, and almost £3,000 was raised in a powerful gesture of support for the future of Bristol rugby.

The commitment of Bristol’s fans did not go unnoticed, and the initiative was reported by BBC Points West, Star FM and the Evening Post.

‘Friends of Bristol Shoguns’ were able to sponsor four players, along with Director of Rugby Peter Thorburn, in a deal lasting until the end of the 2003/04 season. The money raised went to a variety of projects, with the emphasis on supporting the club’s community and youth activity. Friends of Bristol Shoguns financed a holiday club for kids at Frampton Cotterell RFC in February, while also purchasing a set of shirts for an academy side.

Of the four players sponsored, only Richard Hunt is still at the club, and the sponsorship of the other players has now transferred to three well-known Shoguns – Chris Morgan, Sean Marsden and Paul Hodgson. All are sure to become fans’ favourites as the season progresses. Current boss Richard Hill also has FOBS backing!

Donors to Friends of Bristol Shoguns have already seen what they have given to the club. The team wore the shirts that the sponsorship paid for at Newport, and will be wearing them again for the first home match of the season against Fiji on Wednesday 27 August.

The deal saw Friends of Bristol Shoguns receive 10 free tickets for each home game. These will be used to attract new supporters to the Memorial Ground. Local rugby clubs and community groups are being offered the tickets. First up will be Nailsea and Backwell RFC’s junior section for the game against Penzance/Newlyn on Sunday 7 September. If you are involved with a rugby club, youth or similar group, and would be interested in taking up the tickets for subsequent matches, please email helpingbristolrugby@talk21.com.