RenRe & Classic Lions Host Junior Rugby Day
RenaissanceRe once again partnered with the Classic Lions to host a Junior Rugby Day for middle school students on November 13 at the National Sports Center. The event is part of the World Rugby Classic Bermuda.
“For the second year in a row, we’re proudly sponsoring a Junior Rugby Day to give young Bermudians the chance to experience what rugby is all about – sportsmanship, excellence and precision,” says Kevin J. O’Donnell, President and CEO of RenaissanceRe.
He continued, “The Classic Lions are some of the best players in the world. While they’re in Bermuda as part of the World Rugby Classic, we thought it would be ideal to put their skills to good use as coaches for students interested in learning about rugby.” Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2013, RenaissanceRe has a long history of supporting local charities and events with an emphasis on youth and educational programs.
The Classic Lions team is made up of former international rugby players from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Benjamin Breeze, a Lions player and CEO of the Bristol Rugby Community Foundation, has been instrumental in organizing this event for two years now.
Mr. Breeze says, “Rugby is different from other sports. It unites players of all shapes and sizes who work towards a common goal, and espouses traditional values such as honour and trustworthiness. We are delighted to provide rugby coaching to Bermuda’s middle school students and look forward to sharing some of the knowledge we have learnt from our time in the game with a new generation of players.”
The Minister of Community, Culture and Sports Wayne Scott, had this to say about the event, “Amateur sport and recreation enhances the quality of life for island residents and encourages healthy living.
“An event like this Junior Rugby Day introduces middle school students to the sport of rugby and exposes them to world-caliber athletes who have excelled at the game, reinforcing principles that apply both on and off the field. I know our students enjoy this event immensely and the Government of Bermuda thanks RenaissanceRe and the Classic Lions for making this day happen once again.”
Photo credit: Amanda Temple
This is fantastic, what a brilliant experience for all these kids. Thank you Mr Breeze, Classic Lions and Ren Re.
What a great day this was for All the kids that got a chance to train and run with some of the Legends in the Sport of Rugby!
As a Bermudian Youth Rugby Coach this was a Great day. Thank you Ren Re.
Coach Devrae
BRFU Youth Rugby Coach
Beyond Rugby Coach