On 3rd October 2026, a team of us will set off on a 15-mile walk from Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK in Burnaston to Long Eaton Rugby Football Club, carrying the match ball for the 1st XV fixture against Ilkeston, where it will be delivered ahead of kick-off.

The walk itself is a challenge, but the reason behind it is far bigger than the distance.

Like many rugby supporters, I have been deeply inspired by the incredible fundraising efforts of Sir Kevin Sinfield in support of his friend and former teammate Rob Burrow. I have attended both of the "7 4 5" games and witnessed first-hand the extraordinary power of friendship, determination and community in the fight against Motor Neurone Disease (MND).

Rugby has also been a huge part of my own life. For the past nine years, I have had the privilege of helping coach my son's team at Long Eaton Rugby Club, watching a fantastic group of young players grow from Under 6s to Under 16s. Through that rugby family, I met Rob Tiffney, who recently completed an astonishing 5,000-mile walking challenge and raised more than £50,000 for the MND Association. His commitment and achievement showed me that ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference when they come together behind a cause bigger than themselves.

What started as a conversation about how we could make a difference has grown into a challenge that brings together colleagues from Mitie @ Toyota, friends from rugby, family members and supporters, all united by a desire to support those affected by MND.

Inspired by Sir Kevin, Rob Burrow, Lewis Moody, Doddie Weir, Rob Tiffney and countless others affected by MND, I felt it was time to play my part.

This walk is about raising funds and awareness for the MND Association, while bringing together colleagues, rugby players, supporters, friends and local communities behind a cause that touches so many lives. Every donation, no matter how large or small, helps support people living with MND and funds vital research to find better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

If you'd like to join us for part or all of the walk, we'd love to have you along. If you can't walk with us, please consider supporting us through a donation.

Together, we'll carry more than just a rugby ball to Long Eaton Rugby Club. We'll carry the support, generosity and determination of everyone who wants to help create a future free from Motor Neurone Disease.

Thank you for your support.

15 miles. One match ball. One community. One cause. Together against MND.