Graeme Dingle Foundation NZ Rugby's charity of choice

The Graeme Dingle Foundation have been successfully appointed as the official charity of choice for New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and its national teams, including the All Blacks, Black Ferns, Maori All Blacks and Junior All Blacks.

The announcement was made on Monday at Pomaria School in Henderson. Pomaria students, many of whom benefit from the Foundation’s programmes, had the chance to meet and partake in teamwork challenges with Black Ferns, Victoria Subritzky – Nafatali and Sosoli Talawadau. Also on show was the current NZR silverware, including the prestigious Webb Ellis Cup (the Rugby World Cup trophy).

Graeme Dingle Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer Jenny Stiles said being selected as the charity of choice for NZR and New Zealand’s national rugby teams meant more New Zealanders would be aware of the work they do in the community.

“We are absolutely delighted to be the official charity of choice for New Zealand Rugby. Rugby is at the heart of so many of the communities we work in and we know our kids are going to love the opportunities this brings them. More than this, we believe this partnership will enable us to go deeper and wider with our work to help young Kiwi’s thrive and grow in their resilience and self-belief.”

NZR Chief Operating Officer Nicki Nicol said the Graeme Dingle Foundation’s programmes addressed many of the challenges faced by New Zealand children and teenagers and NZR was keen to help them reach an even bigger audience.

“The Foundation’s mission is to help make New Zealand the best place in the world for children, young people and their families. That’s hugely inspiring, and aligns closely with our rugby values.

“As New Zealand’s national sport we have a responsibility to do what we can to have a positive influence on the community. Building self-esteem, goal setting and finding a positive path are challenges many of our players of all ages can relate to.”

The partnership is a three-year agreement and Nicol said representatives from the All Blacks and Black Ferns were involved in helping select the Graeme Dingle Foundation to help ensure there was a genuine connection.

“We are all excited to start working together and do what we can to help New Zealand children and young people live their best lives,” concludes Nicol.

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