29 January 2025 | All News
VIY launch new programme to improve rugby club facilities and encourage more women and girls to get involved in rugby, in partnership with Continental Tyres and Kwik Fit.
As England Rugby’s official partner, we’re thrilled to be working with Continental Tyres and Kwik Fit on a new programme of work to improve rugby club facilities and encourage more women and girls to get involved in rugby. This programme of work is all about creating dedicated changing rooms for girls, providing a more welcoming environment and breaking down barriers to participation.
To celebrate our latest project together, Ellie Kildunne, World Rugby 15’s Player of the Year and Continental Ambassador, visited our project at Anchorians Sports Club in Gillingham to check out the progress. As part of the project, she shared her own story:
“I played for a boys’ team where… there were only boys’ changing rooms. So I spent most of my time behind a towel that my dad was holding up or in the car getting changed.
To see the difference that’s been made over the past few years… having clubs with areas that are fit for girls to shower, to get changed, to do their hair… it’s a really cool thing to see.”
Through our partnership with Continental Tyres and Kwik Fit, we’re not only enhancing sports facilities for women and girls, but also giving local young people the chance to gain hands-on work experience, develop new skills, and achieve accreditations. This project was co-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Medway Council, VIY Partners Sport England, and material donations from Dulux and Travis Perkins.
By investing in inclusive spaces and advocating for greater diversity in sports, Continental Tyres is playing a crucial role in empowering young girls and women to pursue their sporting ambitions. These improved facilities are more than just buildings – they’re a step towards real change and making everyone feel like they belong.
The impact on the club has been fantastic. Simon Somerset, Anchorians Youth & Mini’s Chairman, shared his thoughts, saying, “The girls were thrilled, and having Ellie visit made it even more special.”
Laura Cowling from Kwik Fit highlighted their commitment to supporting the community: “Our staff and customers have strong ties to the club, and our volunteers are proud to contribute.”
Peter Robb, Marketing Director at Continental Tyres, commented on the launch of the VIY programme: “We’re proud to support this project and create an environment where women and girls feel welcome in rugby.”
See this amazing film to see impact of this project in action: