The multi-pronged clubs.connected initiative aims to deliver meaningful change to Scotland’s local rugby clubs in how they operate and how they engage with their communities.
Grassroots rugby clubs across Scotland, many operating with poor or unreliable connectivity, will receive assistance from Vodafone UK through its new clubs.connected initiative. Through donations of free connectivity and other benefits, the company aims to put local clubs on the path to longer-term commercial success by attracting members and engaging better with their communities.
Grassroots rugby clubs are often at the heart of their local communities. Their venues and matches can act as opportunities for locals and visitors alike to mix through the common ground of the sport, strengthening the ties that bind them together. But some can struggle with their operations, logistics and finances, especially if they don’t know how better connectivity can help. This is where Vodafone’s clubs.connected initiative can lend a hand.
What will local rugby clubs get from clubs.connected?
Through clubs.connected, clubs will receive:
- Free connectivity for 12 months, Clubs can use this throughout their operations. From running their sales, ticketing and security systems to live streaming their games. After 12 months, clubs can opt to continue their service as paying customers if they wish.
- Discounts on Vodafone services for their sponsors and members, whether they’re businesses or individuals, through the Vodafone referral scheme.
- Opportunities to win experiences for their clubs. This could include tickets to the Six Nations, being interviewed by the Rugby Journal or coaching sessions with professional players. Some of these experiences will take place as part of Vodafone’s rugby roadshows, organised with Scottish Rugby, across Scotland.
Nick Gliddon, Business Director, VodafoneThree, said: “Connectivity lifts communities. It helps local businesses grow, empowers people to do what they love and now will help to keep grassroots rugby thriving. Clubs sit at the heart of so many towns and villages, shaping futures on and off the pitch and we want to keep it beating now and long into the future.”
Which clubs will benefit from clubs.connected?
The following three clubs will be the first to benefit from clubs.connected, with roadshows taking place on their premises during upcoming Six Nations matches:
- Linlithgow, Saturday 14 March, Ireland v Scotland (Men’s)
- Hamilton, Saturday 11 April, Wales v Scotland (Women’s)
- Highlands, Sunday 17 May, Italy v Scotland (Women’s)
The launch of clubs.connected in these three Scottish communities is the latest example of VodafoneThree’s ongoing commitment to Scotland. The merged company’s rollout of 5G SA builds upon Vodafone UK and Three UK’s roles in connecting Scottish countryside communities through the Shared Rural Network. VodafoneThree’s investment is projected to increase Scotland’s GVA by up to £9.7bn by 2035, driving economic growth and employment across the country. 5G SA could bring substantial benefits to the match day economies of professional clubs. VodafoneThree is also currently investigating the feasibility of connecting Shetland to the Scottish mainland with a subsea cable.
In addition to working with numerous Scottish businesses, Vodafone UK is the Principal Partner of Scottish Rugby. Vodafone UK is committed to supporting grassroots rugby across the UK, with extensive experience in supporting clubs across all four home nations.
To learn more about the programme, and to apply, visit the Scottish Rugby website.
