School of Hard Knocks and Investec Celebrate Spring Rugby Tournament Success
The School of Hard Knocks, in partnership with international bank and wealth manager Investec, has successfully concluded its latest spring rugby tournament at Eton Manor RFC. This two-day event brought together approximately 350 boys and girls who used the sport as a platform to test and enhance their teamwork, resilience, and determination.
Rugby Legends and Supportive Backing
The tournament saw participation from notable figures in the rugby world, including Red Roses legend Shaunagh Brown and Deborah Griffin OBE, president of the Rugby Football Union. Investec, which also serves as the title sponsor of the European Champions Cup, brought its iconic zebra mascot to the event, underscoring its commitment to youth development through sport.
Deborah Griffin OBE emphasized the importance of consistent support, stating: "You don't change a young person's life in a single moment – you do it through consistent support and opportunities like this. What SOHK and Investec are doing together is giving young people the chance to see what they're capable of, and that is hugely powerful."
Building Life Skills Through Competitive Sport
School of Hard Knocks focuses on using competitive sport to help young people build essential life skills. According to data from the charity, participants have shown significant improvements in self-awareness and emotional management.
- Over 90 percent of participants report building more positive relationships with others.
- Nearly 90 percent indicate improved self-awareness since joining the program.
- Over 80 percent state they have been able to manage their emotions more effectively.
Investec's Role in Youth Development
Francesca Keynton, Head of Fundraising at School of Hard Knocks, highlighted Investec's crucial role: "Opportunities like this would not be possible without Investec's ongoing support. They aren't just sponsoring a tournament; they are helping fund the consistent, expert intervention required to support young people living through hardship and deprivation."
Investec continues to back the School of Hard Knocks in its mission to help young people achieve their potential and grow as individuals, demonstrating a long-term commitment to community engagement and youth empowerment through sports initiatives.
