The Rugby community’s passion and dedication won’t just be shown on the field at the South West Summer 7’s.
The tournament marks an incredible display of heart, with the advocation for the 16 Days in WA campaign, as well as a charity barbarian side taking the field for Give Rugby.
In its inaugural year, the South West Summer 7’s will see 10 Open Men’s, 4 Open Women’s, and 6 Social Men’s teams from throughout the state travelling to Margaret River for the first Seniors 7 competition of the WA 7’s series. Now, the competition takes on deeper meaning.
RugbyWA’s Alignment with 16 Days in WA
RugbyWA is standing in support of the 16 Days in WA campaign in 2024.
The annual 16 Days in WA – Stop Violence Against Women campaign takes place from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day. In Western Australia, 16 Days in WA aims to raise awareness, motivate positive action and highlight organisations, agencies, communities and individuals taking action to end violence against women.
RugbyWA will be using the Southwest Summer 7’s as an opportunity to promote the elimination of violence towards women to the Rugby community. Players are being provided with orange ribbon and tape to wear throughout the tournament in solidarity with 16 Days in WA.
“Respect is integral to the sport of rugby and the community,” RugbyWA CEO, Simon Taylor, said. “RugbyWA believes we are always stronger together, supporting our teammates and community. Standing against domestic and family violence is part of that respect and teamwork.”
“We all have a responsibility to stop family and domestic violence. RugbyWA encourages everyone to Play Your Part.”
RugbyWA has also launched a Domestic Violence resources and information page, which can be accessed through its Mental Health & Wellbeing space.
Give Rugby’s Movember Campaign
Charity barbarian side, Give Rugby is raising funds for Movember, an annual event dedicated to raising awareness for men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health.
Established in 2017, the team were involved in the 2017 Spring 7's competition as well as local touch rugby competitions in the proceeding years. The South West Summer 7’s marks the team’s return to play.
“Coming off a hiatus, we eagerly look forward to bringing healthy competitive nature to the fantastic upcoming WA 7's series hosted by Rugby WA,” team member, George Peters, shared, citing that it wouldn’t be possible without their partner Banhams WA.
Give Rugby team members will grow moustaches throughout November to show solidarity with the Movember movement.
“Players will use their platform to raise awareness and spark conversations about men’s health issues, encouraging others to participate and donate,” Peters said. “This personal involvement not only shows support but also helps normalise discussions about topics that are often overlooked.”
“As we look to speak more openly about the mental and emotional pressures of the game, encouraging men to talk about their own mental health struggles and seek help when needed.”
Donations for Give Rugby’s Movember fundraiser can be made through the Movember website.
The South West Summer 7’s kicks off on Saturday, November 30 at 10:30AM at Gloucester Park.
The Southwest Summer 7’s are proudly supported by RugbyWA, Margaret River Gropers Rugby Club, HSBC SVNS PER, the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.
For further information about this tournament, visit the Rugby 7’s webpage.
