Opel, a proud sponsor of Irish Rugby and the official car partner to the IRFU, is delighted to announce its Driving the Passion programme that will see the car brand donate hundreds of Gilbert rugby training balls to local rugby clubs nationwide, with a particular focus on women’s teams.
Opel’s goal is clear: to strengthen its bond with Irish rugby by actively supporting local rugby clubs at the grassroots level to empower the future stars of Irish rugby. Having successfully collaborated with several prominent clubs around Ireland already, Opel is now gearing up to extend its reach to even more clubs in the upcoming weeks.
Opel’s dedication to the local rugby community is evident through recent visits to esteemed clubs including Clontarf FC, Railway Union RFC, Balbriggan RFC, Clanwilliam FC, and Donegal Town RFC. Opel brand ambassadors and Irish rugby stars, Amee Leigh Murphy Crowe and Stacey Flood have given their support too, attending the Clanwilliam FC, Clontarf FC, and Railway Union RFC presentation of rugby balls.
Aligned with Opel’s overarching mission to deepen its connection with Irish rugby, the Driving the Passion initiative has been designed to support emerging talents of the sport by providing essential training equipment. It will serve to continue the growth of Irish rugby at local levels, for all age groups, and for both men’s and women’s teams.
Sharing her enthusiasm, the driving force behind the initiative, Jennifer Eagers, Marketing Executive at Opel Ireland, noted: “It is an honour to play our part and contribute to the growth and success of local rugby clubs in Ireland. The response from the clubs I’ve had the privilege of visiting has been truly inspiring. The teams were not only welcoming but also lovely to work with. The warmth and hospitality I encountered speak volumes about the unique character of local rugby clubs. We look forward to meeting more teams and clubs in the near future.”
Coaches of the visited clubs have expressed gratitude for Opel Ireland’s generous gesture. “This initiative from Opel is a game-changer for our club. The donation of rugby balls not only enhances our training sessions, it also encourages more individuals, especially the youth, to take up the sport,” says Richard Cowan, Training Coach at Clontarf Rugby Club.
Opel is now inviting other clubs from around the country to express their interest in receiving rugby balls by simply emailing marketing@opel.ie. Opel aims to furnish a further 10 clubs with training balls before Christmas.
