For over 35 years, rugby has given me friendship, belonging, and a community wherever I’ve lived. No matter where I’ve ended up in the country, I’ve always found my people through this sport.

This year, I’m heading to Newcastle to play for Yorkshire in a tournament for players over 35 — absolute bliss. I might even keep up with the play!

But while rugby has always given me a family, many young people aren’t so fortunate. That’s why the rugby community comes together to support Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby.

Wooden Spoon funds life‑changing projects across the UK and Ireland for children and young people with disabilities or facing disadvantage. The need is huge:

*1 in 10 children in the UK and Ireland have a disability

*3.5 million children in the UK are living in poverty

And these numbers continue to rise.

Through the power and values of rugby, Wooden Spoon believes — and I believe — that every child should have access to the same opportunities, support, and sense of belonging that this sport has given me for decades.

If you’re able to donate, you’ll be helping to change a young person’s life. Thank you for supporting me, supporting Yorkshire, and most importantly, supporting the children who need us.