Hartford Homes is proud to announce a significant new partnership with Isle of Man Rugby, becoming the official sponsor of the Isle of Man Rugby Academy and the new Competitions and Community Sponsor for junior rugby across the Island.
This dual sponsorship reinforces Hartford Homes’ commitment to supporting grassroots development and nurturing the next generation of sporting talent on the Isle of Man.
The support for the Isle of Man Rugby Academy is vital for the Island’s most promising young players, from U14 through to U18 level. It helps provide opportunities for them to compete in high-profile matches and tournaments in the UK and beyond, creating clear pathways from academy rugby to county, Premiership, and even international levels.
On behalf of the Isle of Man Rugby Academy, Dave Parkes said:
‘Hartford Homes’ kind sponsorship of the Isle of Man Rugby Academy will help us to inspire, develop, and support the rugby stars of tomorrow. There are international players whose talent has been nurtured in the Isle of Man and the continued support of the Academy will enable more players to fulfil their potential. It will also enable us to reinforce our ‘Manx STARS’ model to: Manage development, increase Athletic potential, Nurturing players to have the X-factor, allowing them to become more Skillful, Tactical, Aware and Resilient.’
Complementing the academy sponsorship, Hartford Homes is also the new Competitions and Community Sponsor.
This covers the hugely popular monthly junior rugby festivals, which give over 250 children aged 5-12 a chance to experience the game in a fun setting. It also includes the Junior Manx Cup competitions for ages 13-16, a key event in the local rugby calendar.
Kris Hattam, the Isle of Man’s Development Officer for rugby, said:
‘Hartford Homes’ sponsorship provides a big boost to the local game. It means we can continue to grow participation, develop coaches and referees and build clear pathways from schools into clubs. At the heart of this partnership with Hartford Homes is a shared belief that better people create better players and the values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, discipline, and sportsmanship are central to rugby in the Isle of Man.’
A spokesperson for Hartford Homes said:
‘We’re proud to support Isle of Man rugby, particularly within the junior levels where the values of teamwork, respect, enjoyment, and discipline play such a vital role in helping to shape the characters of young people. They also align closely with our own commitment to the community and excellence. Therefore, we’re delighted to help ensure that these opportunities are open to young people.’