Unused Kit Donated To SOS Kit Aid

In recent weeks, Munster Rugby has donated a total of 83 boxes of unused team kit from the past five seasons to developing rugby countries through SOS Kit Aid, a charity whose mission is to recycle sports kit for the benefit of young people overseas so they are given a sporting chance.

Founded on the belief that sport changes lives, SOS Kit Aid makes a positive and tangible impact on children’s lives by giving them the chance to participate in sporting activities which in turn promote social inclusion. Their vision is to give all children access to sport, and in doing so, reduce the volume of sports kit in landfill sites.

With the support of World Rugby, kit has been donated by schools, clubs and kit manufacturers across the UK and Ireland with an estimated value of over £3.5million delivered to date. Over 135,000 youngsters in 20 developing countries in Eastern Europe, Africa and the South Seas have received quality used and new kit, and there are a further 59 countries on the waiting list.

Commenting on the donation of the kit, Munster Rugby Domestic Game Manager Ultan O’Callaghan said, “This was Munster’s way of giving to developing countries as part of a brotherhood of union in a World Cup year. We wanted to share our surplus kit from the previous five years (pictured right) and when we investigated the idea with World Rugby we discovered the SOS Kit Aid charity which gave us the opportunity to donate to lesser off countries who are just forming their respective unions.

“These countries are getting used to the governance of the game and how to run it and we hope that having a brand like Munster Rugby lend support will be of real benefit to them.

“Just like here, where many kids wear the Munster jersey and are inspired to play the game, and maybe even one day play for Munster, we hope that the receipt of our gear will inspire those in developing countries to get involved in rugby and reap the associated benefits of playing sport.”