Following the sad passing of Lincoln RFC U16 player Sam Staple on the 24th September 2024 at the age of just 15 years old, Sam's family and the Lincoln RFC U16 Coaching team have discussed a range of ideas to honour Sam's memory, and how best to provide a lasting legacy in his name.

With support from the Lincoln RFC Board, this page has been established to collect donations in Sam's name. These donations will provide a lasting legacy in the form of funding or support to either

• A Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, Derbyshire (NLD) player seeking support to develop their rugby career with funding to support the transition from grassroots to the higher-level game or

• an NLD team looking for support with tour fundraising – to encourage players to have the same experience and develop similar memories to those that Sam recently enjoyed so much with his teammates.

Several generous offers of financial support have already been forthcoming, and it is felt that this will be a great opportunity to support local rugby and provide some solace to Sam's family, knowing NLD players will benefit in his memory.

Sam's funeral will take place at 1200 on Friday 8th November 2024. The service will be held at Lincoln Crematorium followed by a wake at Lincoln Rugby Club. There will also be an opportunity at the funeral to donate.

Further information with regards to the application process for this funding will be available in due course.

Sam's family and the Coaching team would like to take this opportunity to thank the wider rugby family for their generous sympathy and support over the last month.

Thank you.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, I will withdraw funds directly to Lincoln Rugby Club. It's the most efficient way to donate and saves time and costs.