BKT PLACES TO PLAY: BOOSTING GRASSROOTS RUGBY IN THE UK
As Title Sponsor of the BKT United Rugby Championship, BKT, the leading Off-Highway tire manufacturer, is proud to launch “Places to Play”, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative that, in collaboration with URC, builds new sports facilities for communities around the UK, Ireland, and Italy. The first step of the project has been the inauguration of a multi-purpose fitness area, called The Power Zone, at Kenfig Hill RFC in South Wales. Former Ospreys player Ben John participated as the ambassador of the initiative.
THE POWER ZONE
The Power Zone will serve as a valuable year-round resource not only for Kenfig Hill RFC but also for the entire community. It will help the rugby club expand its offerings to local schools and other sports teams who need access to a top-class facility.
KENFIG HILL RFC: A COMMUNITY RUGBY CLUB
Kenfig Hill RFC’s winning project was chosen by a panel made up of Lucia Salmaso (Managing Director, BKT Europe), Martin Anayi (CEO, United Rugby Championship), and Ben John (The Rugby Trainer and ex-Ospreys player), among five shortlisted finalists after an extensive outreach phase with over thirty competition entries.
The club, established in 1897, is part of the affiliate program of the Ospreys (Welsh URC franchise). With 1,200 social club members, 120 men’s senior players, 40 women’s senior players, and 360 junior players, Kenfig Hill RFC is focused on diversity, with male and female representation at the committee level, and is deeply embedded in the local community. It supports the community with various initiatives, including fundraising to ensure junior members do not pay for memberships, helping numerous charity partners, and offering a range of community services such as mental health workshops and gym classes for all ages.
THE INAUGURATION DAY
The BKT Power Zone was officially opened at Kenfig Hill RFC on November 27th, a day filled with various rugby and fitness sessions hosted by Ben John, showcasing the versatility of the BKT Power Zone and its value not only for rugby enthusiasts but as a community space for all. The inauguration saw the participation of children of different ages from local schools, members of the Cartrefi Cymru Co-op (a non-profit organization that supports people with learning disabilities), players from the Ospreys URC team, and URC and BKT representatives.
BKT Places to Play is part of BKT’s wider program that invests in sports facilities to enhance the well-being of communities around the world through our sponsorships. In this way, we aim to create opportunities for health, growth, and togetherness, fostering inclusivity, and building a brighter future for all, thanks to sport.