A SOLIHULL rugby club has retained sponsorship with a supply chain specialist.
Birmingham and Solihull RFC – the Bees – will be supported by Redditch-based family business Oakland International for the next three-years.
The club said having the knowledge that Oakland International have committed to supporting them for another three years means they can continue to plan and develop for future generations of players.
Chair and head of senior rugby at Birmingham and Solihull RFC, Dr Arturo Lupoli or ‘Lou’ said: “Oakland International’s support for the next three years is invaluable as it allows us to invest in our youth section and our infrastructure which, given that much of it was built in the 60’s, requires much tender, loving care.
“It also means we can employ a physio to support the rehabilitation of injured players and work with them to promote injury prevention.”
“Unfortunately, the pandemic has had a significant impact on numbers, but our ambition is still to play at level seven of the rugby pyramid by 2025, that’s why so much focus is now on returning our youth section to its former cohort of some 250 youngsters spanning all age groups.”
The Bees have had a successful youth section over the years, with some players signing professional contracts including Noah Heward, who now plays for Premiership side Bristol Bears, and is formerly a Worcester Warriors player.
Oakland International’s Redditch depot manager, Luke Attwell, said: “Oakland have been an avid supporter of the Bee’s for over 15 years, both formally and informally, with former chairman Dai Phillips developing the relationship with my parents when I joined just as a mini and junior player.
“Although at present I’m rehabilitating from a long-term injury, I am proud to be a player on the senior team having come up through the youth section from the age of 11.
“Receiving so much support over the years from the club, coaches and volunteers it’s an absolute pleasure to know the business is continuing to support the club.
“It’s vital that local businesses get involved with community groups and sporting teams which then benefit home-grown players of the future and the wider community through sport.”
