London Irish Amateur would sincerely like to thank Barry Murphy of the Bs for his article covering the Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation inaugural Whanau Cup. The article was published in the programme of the cancelled London Irish v Bath fixture Monday 3rd of January 2022.

Barry will be publishing a number of articles in the coming months covering all things London Irish. The Matt Ratana foundation will return to Hazelwood Saturday 20th of August 2022.

A proud day for the club on Saturday 28th August as we hosted the inaugural Whānau Cup, the flagship event of the Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation. As readers will doubtless already know, Matt, a much-loved member of the Bs here at London Irish, tragically lost his life, whilst serving as a Met. Police Sergeant, in September 2020.

Fair conditions at Hazelwood saw well over 1000 spectators wholeheartedly support what was a superbly organised and successful day. The curtain-raiser saw the Geese prevail over East Grinstead, the club to which Matt was not only Head Coach, but also heart and soul. Next up, a Police Women’s XV finished 49-19 winners of a lively encounter with the spirited MRRF Vixens. In the showpiece contest, the MRRF Marauders, in which we were proud to field six home players, ultimately came up short against England Police. It was a hugely entertaining affair, with the invitation side taking the game boldly to their youthful opposition, securing an early lead, before the superior fitness and organisation of an impressive Police outfit eventually proved decisive.

There followed presentations and speeches, ably overseen by our own Kevin Flynn and Rob Lynch. Central to these was an introduction by Sean Morgan to the Foundation’s ethos and goals, principally “creating transformational change and opportunity for young people through rugby”. Several speakers shared insights into actual projects both in the pipeline and already underway, all with the fundamental aim of inspiring and mentoring youngsters from challenging backgrounds, as far afield as New Zealand, and as close to home as South London. Matt’s partner Su then spoke warmly of his affection for Irish, and how moved she felt at seeing the Foundation already so well supported, honouring Matt’s memory and continuing his legacy. Proceedings were wrapped up by Tim Stimpson expertly banging the fundraising drum, which led naturally into a lively night of music and laughter.

In every respect, the event truly mirrored the values and virtues of the man himself, and as such was a fitting celebration of all that’s good about our game, both on and off the field. The matches themselves were fiercely contested, but played in a healthy sporting spirit, and with an irrepressible smile. The touchline support was enthusiastic and vocal, and the partying was boisterous, inclusive, and convivial. In short, wherever you turned throughout the day, you could feel Matt’s influence and presence everywhere… and praise doesn’t come much higher than that.