Rugby, traditionally, was more than a game, a shared community and family  bond that extended beyond the pitch. The heart and soul of the game was founded on giving and never about money. Time, effort, and selfless contribution, with no expectation of a return on investment was the currency of the selfless.
As Fabian Cainzos from Buenos Aires puts it: “In no other game do so many people give so much of their time and expertise without expecting anything back.”
For those of us who grew up in traditional rugby-playing nations, generosity constituted our club culture. As a member of a team and organizations with deep roots, which provided generational support, and a network of former players and supporters who thrived on give back, was a privilege.
Sadly, this is not a universal reality.
The world over, in emerging and underprivileged rugby communities, the game is kept alive by committed superheroes, individuals who will give anything despite having nothing.
They too donât have the backing of the wealthy alumni, corporate sponsorships, or well-funded clubs. They coach and mentor aspiring young players on dusty fields, in city streets, and on grass patches where dreams of goalposts are made of.
They âjust do itâ and get by without funding, resources, or basic kit. Their passion is vested in helping to make young aspirersâ dreams come true.
Where Respect outweighs Charity.
The passion invested in their communities is nothing short of extraordinary. Yet, too often, their efforts are seen through a charity lens rather than respect for the impact they are making.
From inner-city rugby projects in LA and Chicago, to shantytowns in Colombia, the Favelas of Brazil, the rice paddies of Vietnam and Cambodia, the mountains of Uganda, and the townships of South Africa, rugby lovers are pouring heart and soul into developing young players. With little or no support.
This is not charity.
These are not people in need of pity.
They are rugby people, just like us.
We should stand beside, not above them. Be proud to call them teammates in this global movement. If we truly believe in the spirit, values, and ethos of rugby, weâll see them as peers and equals. And not as projects to fund.
Unstoppable Rugbyâ˘: A Home for the Unsung Heroes
At Unstoppable Rugbyâ˘, our self-inflicted charge is to:
- Shine a light on those keeping the grassroots game alive.
- Create a home for those who were âoverlookedâ for far too long.
- Provide recognition, respect, and support. Not handouts
Change the way we see rugby development. Rather than considering what we can “give” struggling rugby communities, we should focus on what we can learn from their resilience, passion, and commitment to the sport. Despite overwhelming challenges.
Honouring Those Who Gave Everything
Unstoppable Rugby⢠is about developing the next generation. Recognizing those who came before us, the legends who gave their lives to rugby, and expected nothing in return.
Many, whether players, coaches, or volunteers, now face unimaginable financial and health-related challenges. The last thing they will do is to ask for help. Givers arenât takers rather suffer in silence than burden others.
As a global rugby community, we need to care more …
As Unstoppable Rugbyâ˘, weâll establish opportunities to harness our collective strength to support those who made the game what it is today, while ensuring the next generation has a future to believe in.
Call to Action
âPrivilegedâ in rugby doesnât mean having access to better facilities, funding, or opportunities. In essence, itâs a duty to protect the gameâs founding principles.
More than rugby. Itâs about who we are as a rugby family. The time has come to stand strong for those who need it most. Not as charity. As equals, teammates, and fellow Unstoppables.
One for All. All for One.
#unstoppabletogether
Photographs: Copyright Š 2025 Carolina Bravo â Argentina
