The Blue Bulls Company and Blue Bulls Rugby Union on Tuesday announced the establishing of the Vodacom Bulls Relief Fund, which is aimed at assisting employees and those that serve in club and community rugby in the union’s jurisdiction area.
This essential and ground-breaking initiative in the rugby industry has been kick started by the generosity of our shareholders, Remgro and businessman Patrice Motsepe, together with the union’s main sponsor Vodacom. Collectively they have contributed R1,5 million to get the project off the ground.
Willem Strauss, President of the Blue Bulls Rugby Union, outlined the importance of the fund, while also hailing the shareholders and sponsor as heroes.
“There are hundreds of dedicated people that pour their hearts and souls into keeping rugby alive and well in our communities. For many of them this is their only source of income, and at a time like this, with no rugby action, this fund is literally the difference between a meal or not,” he explained.
At the announcement of the fund, Strauss expressed the union’s gratitude to their shareholders, who made the foundation of the fund possible.
“The contribution of Remgro, Mr. Motsepe and Vodacom re-emphasizes their commitment to all Blue Bulls stakeholders and not just the Professional game. This combined effort highlights the amazing synergy and relationship between the three shareholders and Vodacom. We are honoured to have partners that understand the needs of the people and the community,” Strauss commented.
For most clubs, the contribution they will receive from this fund is like manna from heaven. Income from sponsors is suddenly no longer guaranteed due to the effect of the COVID-19 crisis on the country’s economy. However, many clubs usually rely on the support of the public and their loyal supporters for the bulk of their income, which is earned through food and drink sales during matches and other social events.
“We try to think outside the box and maintain a revenue stream with braai packs and take away liquor sales during level 3 of the lockdown regulations, but that’s not comparable to what we’re used to. This assistance from the union’s fund is therefore like a blessing from above,” Charles Pelser, manager at Centurion rugby club told Rekord.
Jaco Basson, rugby director at the Pretoria Rugby Club, who plays in the Blue Bulls presidential league, told Rekord that they are very grateful for the help.
“Our expenses are not as big as the Carlton Cup clubs, but the same goes for our income, of course. This Coronavirus crisis has robbed us of the opportunity to recruit sponsors this year. So, the money will be very welcome to be able to pay our grounds manager and other obligations such as affiliation fees,” said Basson.
Pieter Uys, Chairman of the Blue Bulls Company, reiterated the importance of the fund.
“It is important in these difficult times to make a difference and to support our Blue Bulls people and clubs as they are the heart of our wonderful brand. Sustaining the support structures at clubs and community levels during this time is essential for the future of the game in the region. It not only assists the individuals involved but also ensures a smooth restart when we get to that stage,” said Uys.
Michelle van Eyden, Executive Head of Sponsorship at Vodacom said this is a tough time for the Bulls family, but they still give everything for the game they love.
“As a member of the Bulls Family, we are humbled to be able to support the Vodacom Bulls Relief Fund, and give back to them,” Van Eyden concluded.
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