It’s been great having rugby back on our screens. The big hits, last-gasp tackles and acrobatic trys in the corner.

Now, as we head towards the Super Rugby AU finals, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about how you can get involved in the sport.

Good news: look no further than www.vetfriendlyclub.com.au

An easy way to get involved

The team at Rugby 1^st have just launched a website for their innovative ’Vet Friendly Club’ program.

“We’re excited to have the Vet Friendly Club program website live and open for registrations,” says Angus Stewart, Rugby 1^st Director. “We know there’s huge interest out there and that rugby clubs can’t wait to welcome veterans and their families into their communities. We believe that together we can make an important contribution in the transition from service to civilian life and in supporting the men and women who serve our country.”

Visiting the website and registering your interest is the easiest way for both veterans and rugby clubs to get involved in the program.

For veterans and their families, the Vet Friendly Club program provides the opportunity to be linked directly with a supportive rugby club that embraces the program’s ‘5 C’s’: culture, compassion, community, capability and commitment.

There’s also the opportunity to be introduced to Rugby 1^st’s business networking community.

“Registering for the program is easy and we’re always looking to get more and more clubs involved,” says Alexandra Lyus, Rugby 1^st Director. “We’ve initially launched the program in NSW, and we’ll be expanding into the ACT, Queensland and other states around Australia in 2020 and beyond. Over time, the program also has the potential to expand into other sports.”

A strong connection with the veteran community

Rugby has a proud history and strong connection with the veteran community, emphasised by the Vet Friendly Club program’s amazing Ambassadors General The Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove and Rear Admiral Lee Goddard.

Rod Stewart is the program’s RSL NSW sub-Branch Liaison Officer and is a member of the Hunters Hill RSL sub-Branch.

“This is a great initiative for veterans who are rugby lovers,” says Rod. “It allows them to follow their sport in the way they want and however they are capable of participating. Importantly, it also provides a social outlet that is vital for veterans newly transitioned from service.”

Proud to partner

Veteran Sport Australia is proud to be partnering with Rugby 1^st and supporting the Vet Friendly Club program.

“We’re looking forward to veterans and their families getting involved in the program and rugby communities right around the country,” says Michael Hartung, CEO of Veteran Sport Australia. “Whether it’s playing, coaching, volunteering or just coming along to support, there’s so much that the rugby community has to offer.”

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To get involved in the ‘Vet Friendly Club’ program – as an individual or rugby club – just visit www.vetfriendlyclub.com.au and register your interest!