Chiefs Alumni fundraiser a success

The Chiefs Alumni Programme have successfully raised $20,314.75 following the rewarding Chiefs Alumni Golf Day and the auctioning of the 1996 Gallagher Chiefs heritage jersey’s worn by the Gallagher Chiefs team who played the Hurricanes on Friday 15 March.

The Chiefs Alumni golf day held at Ngaruawahia Golf Club was one of two functions held for the Alumni, with the second an evening at their old stomping ground FMG Stadium Waikato, cheering on the Gallagher Chiefs against the Hurricanes. It provided an opportunity for former Gallagher Chiefs players, management and staff to connect with stakeholders and reconnect with former team mates and management.

Michael Collins, former Gallagher Chiefs captain and Chiefs Rugby Club CEO said it was fantastic to see the support for the programme and have people get in behind the day.

“The day was a huge success for the Alumni Programme. We had a great day on the course followed by a small auction of several items donated by Chiefs Rugby Club sponsors, alumni members and current players. It is fantastic to see the contribution and support behind the Alumni Programme.”

All 1996 Gallagher heritage playing jerseys worn by the Gallagher Chiefs from their recent match against the Hurricanes were signed by the respective player and auctioned off on Trade Me, in hospitality lounges and to sponsors.

Collins said the fundraising efforts were outstanding and credited the contributions made by alumni members, current players, fans and sponsors.

“There was a good group of people who came together to make the day a success, but we were blown away with how much support we received by our alumni, sponsors, fans and our current Gallagher Chiefs team. It was about connecting our alumni with our team and providing an opportunity to generate funds for our alumni.”

Chiefs Rugby Club Alumni programme:
The Chiefs Rugby Club Alumni programme was established in 2017 by Gallagher Chiefs players Brodie Retallick, Stephen Donald and former Co-Captain Liam Messam. The main purpose of the programme is to raise funds for Alumni members and their families who may fall on hard times or need financial assistance accessing personal or professional development tools. In addition to this the programme provides an opportunity for former players to maintain their connection with the Club through networking and functions.