Having supported the foundation during the 2014/15 season through the Schools Engagement Programme the 2014 UK Port of the Year will again provide support to the Falcons Foundation, as it aims to motivate, educate and inspire via the power of sport.
The Port of Tyne Schools Engagement Programme offers five weeks of tag rugby sessions run by Falcons Community Foundation coaches, culminating in a local tag rugby festival held in South Shields. Each school involved in the programme also receives a set of tag rugby kit provided by Port of Tyne to enable them to continue their rugby education.
All schools involved in this year’s programme also had the opportunity to play on the main pitch at Newcastle Falcons’ Kingston Park Stadium on the day of the Premiership Rugby side’s last home game of the season.
The Falcons Foundation have created a special programme which is all about encouraging involvement and participation in sports for children throughout Tyneside – with over 600 children across ten local schools taking part.
Melanie Magee Newcastle Falcons Head of Community and Marketing, said: “We are delighted to be receiving such fantastic support from the Port of Tyne. The schools and community in South Shields have responded really well to this programme.
“With the Rugby World Cup just around the corner we have a unique opportunity to drive enthusiasm towards the sport in this region as a result of the games to be held at St. James’ Park.
“Without the support of community-focussed organisations like Port of Tyne, we wouldn’t be able to provide these activities to harness and develop this new found love of rugby union.”
Andrew Moffat Port of Tyne Chief Executive Officer, said: “It is good to be involved in the Schools Engagement Programme and we are very proud of the work that is being done through our relationship with the Falcons Community Foundation and the positive impact it is has on young people.”
The tag rugby festival is due to take place at Westoe Rugby Club in South Shields in July – where local schoolchildren will get the chance to showcase their new found skills.