Ventnor RFC is celebrating its 50th anniversary while enjoying one of the most successful periods in the club’s history, with Red Funnel continuing to support its cross-Solent travel through the ferry operator’s Proud to Support programme.
The Isle of Wight club has marked its golden anniversary following a run of success that has included winning the Hampshire Counties 3 title, earning promotion to Counties 2, reaching the semi-finals of the RFU National Community Plate and seeing 6 players selected for Hampshire men’s and under-20 squads.
At one stage, Ventnor had more players involved in the Hampshire county programme than any other rugby club.
Despite its recent achievements, the club says travelling to away fixtures remains one of its biggest challenges, with Isle of Wight teams facing high additional costs and logistical hurdles compared to their mainland counterparts.
To help ease that burden, Ventnor RFC receives travel support through Red Funnel’s Proud to Support programme, which each year assists 42 Island teams, ambassadors and talented individuals with ferry travel.
The club says the support allows it to focus more of its resources on developing players, improving facilities and strengthening its links with the local community.
James Morton, Chairman of Ventnor RFC, has said:
“Red Funnel’s support takes away a huge financial burden, allowing us to travel to fixtures without the extra cost to players or the club. It also gives us the stability and confidence to focus on what matters most.
Article continues below this advertisement “Our ambition is to build a club that is competitive, sustainable and recognised as one of Hampshire’s leading community rugby clubs, while staying true to the values and community spirit that have defined Ventnor RFC for the past 50 years.”
Fran Collins, Chief Executive Officer of Red Funnel, has said:
“Red Funnel is committed to supporting the communities we serve, and part of this is supporting local teams and talented individuals to achieve their goals and dreams.
“Our Proud to Support scheme also helps recognise those making a meaningful contribution to Island life and gives practical support to enable them to continue doing their vital work on the island. Ventnor RFC is a fantastic organisation, and we’re very happy to support the club as it looks ahead to its next chapter.”
Applications for Red Funnel’s Proud to Support programme are due to reopen in November.
