Every Mile Matters: A 250 Mile, Week-Long Run Supporting Savvy Panthers Rugby and Brave Mind
Imagine running a whopping 250 miles in just a week - from Newbury all the way to Chester. Sounds intense, right? Well, that’s exactly what Savvy Panthers founder and coach, Fin Kelly, is embarking on. This isn't just a tough test of endurance; it's a mission to raise crucial funds for two commendable causes: Brave Mind and Savvy Panthers.
Head Coach Fin Kelly (second from left) is running 250 miles in 7 days
On May 14th, 2022, Savvy Panthers, marked their debut in the UK Super Sevens Series at Newbury RFC. Less than a year later, they hosted their inaugural training day at Chester RUFC. These milestones are more than just dates on a calendar – they signify the growth of a vision for Women’s rugby and to continue to compete requires crucial funding, and Fin is taking on that challenge.
Savvy Panthers and Brave Mind have a strong partnership to support key mental health causes
Why do this?
Savvy Panthers: A beacon of performance in women's rugby, Savvy Panthers are more than a team; they're a growing family of incredible female rugby players lighting the Sevens stage globally. Despite securing some sponsorship, the financial struggle remains a looming shadow every season and the team's future hangs in the balance without additional funding. The funds raised for Savvy Panthers is not just money; it's a lifeline that will enable them to compete in 2024.
Brave Mind: Partnering with Savvy Panthers, Brave Mind are doing incredible work in rugby’s mental health initiatives. Their work is crucial, with 25% of rugby players experiencing mental health issues. The funds allocated to Brave Mind will empower mental health first aid training for staff and players and facilitate workshops, extending their reach to rugby clubs and schools.
Savvy Panthers: A Success Story of Empowerment
Founded in January 2022, Savvy Panthers is more than a rugby team. It's a movement that empowers women in rugby through exposure and professional opportunities. In just two seasons, they have welcomed 128 women from around the globe, participating in international and domestic tournaments. Their success isn't just measured in victories but in the happiness and wellbeing of their players.
Since joining forces with Savvy Panthers in January 2023, Brave Mind, led by the incredible Simon Trowers, has been instrumental in promoting mental health awareness in rugby. Their national platform aids rugby clubs and schools in improving their approach to mental health, making it a cornerstone of community values.
Be Part of the Adventure
The run from Newbury to Chester isn't just about covering miles; it's about bridging gaps in funding and awareness for some incredible causes. You can be a part of this incredible journey by following the Savvy Panthers Instagram page (@savvypanthers) for updates and showing your support through donations and encouragement. Every step taken, every mile covered, brings us closer to a world where mental health is prioritised, and women's rugby continues to thrive.
Your support, whether it's donations or just cheering from the sidelines, means the world.
