Here at Bottom of the Ruck, we focus on the grassroots of the sport. It is our firm belief that the grassroots of the sport are the foundation on which the rest of the sport stands. 

We generally do not report on professional clubs, EXCEPT when it involves their support of the grassroots. For rugby to succeed at all levels a symbiotic bond is needed between the elite levels and the grassroots of the sport. This is the second time in the past season that we have reported on something that involves the Leicester Tigers which is great to see. 

Please see the press release below regarding a recent initiative to provide tickets to the Tigers/Exeter match this weekend to youth rugby clubs. 

With a clear mission to support local rugby clubs at all levels, as part of its on-going sponsorship of Leicester Tigers, Europcar Mobility Group UK has sponsored a prize draw for the upcoming Leicester Tigers v Exeter Chiefs match (31^st May). More than 25 grass roots clubs entered the competition, with Veseyans Rugby Club under 11’s team, who will be going up to the under 12’s team in September, receiving the winning tickets.  From the West Midlands, Veseyans have teams in every age group.

As well as attending the match, the team will be invited onto the pitch at half-time for a unique photo opportunity with the team, and will be presented with a box of Europcar and Leicester Tigers branded rugby balls.

“Getting closer to the wider rugby community is a big part of our partnership with Leicester Tigers,” explained Tim Morris, Marketing Director, Europcar UK & Ireland. “As the club works closely with over 50 local grassroots rugby teams it made complete sense to run a ticket give-away that would provide a unique experience on what will be a pretty important match in the season. We hope the event will be especially exciting and inspirational for the young players from Veseyans Rugby Club, some of whom may not have had the opportunity to meet their heroes and watch a professional rugby match live before.”

Europcar, headquartered in Leicester, has partnered with Leicester Tigers since 2023 and recently renewed its commitment to the Club until at least the summer of 2029. As part of the sponsorship, Europcar has naming rights on the West Stand at the Mattioli Woods Welford Road Stadium and branding in other key areas of the stadium, programme, website and tickets.

Europcar also works with the entire Leicester Tigers squad – players, coaches and other staff – and supports fans and other affiliated businesses with their mobility needs with a range of special offers.

“It’s great to see Europcar support our local community activity with this competition for tickets to our final game at home for the season,” said Ben Duke, Head of Community at Leicester Tigers.  “We are really looking forward to welcoming the members of Veseyans Rugby Club, under 11’s and 12’s team.”