Rosyth Sharks Rugby Football Club, a community rugby club based in Fife, has received new funding to support its youth development after suffering a devastating clubhouse fire – thanks to an AO grassroots sports sponsorship grant.
The club has been awarded full kit funding for its Under‑9s youth rugby team after becoming the 1,000th applicant to AO’s UK‑wide grassroots sponsorship scheme, which helps local youth sports teams access essential equipment at no cost to families.
Founded in 1999, Rosyth Sharks has faced significant challenges in recent years. In 2021, a major fire caused serious damage to the club’s clubhouse, putting the future of the organisation at risk and threatening the continuation of youth rugby in the local area.
The local community responded rapidly, launching emergency fundraising efforts that raised £7,000 in just 24 hours, allowing the club to begin essential repairs and stabilise operations. Since then, Rosyth Sharks has worked steadily to rebuild, reintroduce youth rugby programmes and create new opportunities for local children.
Now, through AO’s grassroots funding initiative, the club’s Under‑9s players have received brand new match kits, provided at absolutely no cost to the club or to parents — removing financial barriers to participation and helping ensure equitable access to sport.
Head Youth Coach, David Reynolds, described the U9s as being at ‘a pivotal and inspiring point’ of their journey.
He said:“Over the past year, dedicated volunteers, coaches and parents have worked tirelessly to rebuild from the ground up.
“We are proudly giving local children the opportunity to be active, learn teamwork, build confidence and feel part of something positive and inclusive.
“For many of our U9 players, this is their very first experience of rugby. These kits have given our children a sense of belonging, pride and equality. AO’s support is deeply appreciated.”
AO’s grassroots sponsorship programme is open to youth sports teams across the UK, helping clubs access funding for equipment, kits and essential resources. Eligible teams can apply directly through AO’s application portal.