Sandown & Shanklin RFC have been invited back to take part in the Injured Players Foundation charity tournament at Twickenham on Friday 30th May, following an outstanding showing both on and off the pitch last year.
The tournament supports a national charity that helps rugby players who have suffered life-changing injuries, providing vital care and assistance across the country.
The Isle of Wight club was first invited to the event last year after one of its own players sustained a serious injury while playing. The charity played an important role in supporting his recovery, prompting the team’s involvement.
In 2025, the event raised more than £100,000 across 6 competing teams. Sandown and Shanklin RFC alone contributed an incredible £40,000 – the highest amount raised by any team and the largest single-team total in the tournament’s history.
Their fundraising success saw the team rewarded with use of the England changing room for the day, providing a memorable experience for players.
Off the field, nearly 150 supporters made the journey from the Isle of Wight to Twickenham, creating a strong backing and a memorable day for families and fans alike.
On the pitch, the team also impressed by reaching the final, where they narrowly lost 14-0 to a Barbarians side made up of players from 9 Midlands clubs.
As a result of their efforts and impact, Sandown and Shanklin RFC have been invited to return for this year’s tournament, offering another opportunity to raise funds for the charity that supported one of their own.
The club is now calling on players, friends and the wider Isle of Wight community to help them raise as much money as possible once again.
Donations can be made via the team’s fundraising page at here.
