Rugby Southland has presented a $16,014 donation to the Hawthorndale Care Village (HCV), marking the completion of their three-year charity partnership. The funds were raised through the sale of the 2025 SBS Bank Southland Stags Charity Jersey, worn during Round 7 of this year’s NPC, and includes a $3,340 contribution from Paladin Sports, who supported the initiative by donating $10 from every charity jersey sold.

The partnership between Rugby Southland and HCV began in 2023 and has seen the Stags support the development of the Village from its earliest stages through to its operational opening. Over the three-year term, Rugby Southland delivered a series of community-focused initiatives, including Stags player visits, promotional campaigns, a charity golf day, two charity jerseys, and multiple charity rounds — collectively raising more than $50,000 for HCV.

Rugby Southland acknowledges the significant contribution of the HCV Board; Chair Frank O’Boyle; Margaret Brown, who recently retired as CEO; and Paddy O’Brien and Paul Harrington, whose support and collaboration helped drive the success of the partnership.

Jack King, Rugby Southland Commercial & Marketing Manager:
“This partnership has been incredibly special for everyone involved. Working alongside Hawthorndale Care Village has been easy, collaborative, and genuinely rewarding. We’re proud to have supported a project that brings so much value to the community, and we’re grateful for the trust and enthusiasm HCV brought to every initiative. The positive outcomes we’ve achieved together are a reflection of a strong, respectful relationship — and we’re very proud of what we accomplished over these three years.” “We’d also like to extend our sincere thanks to Paladin Sports for their contribution to this year’s charity jersey initiative. Their support in bringing the jersey to life and their added financial contribution played a meaningful role in the success of this campaign, and we appreciate their willingness to stand alongside us and the Hawthorndale Care Village.”

Frank O’Boyle, Hawthorndale Care Village Chair:
“We are deeply appreciative of Rugby Southland’s long-term support. This partnership has contributed significantly to the development of the Village and has helped raise awareness of the project throughout the community. The generosity shown — both financially and through the involvement of players and staff — has had a meaningful impact. We are grateful for the connection we’ve shared and for the role Rugby Southland has played in helping bring the Village to life.”

Looking Ahead

Rugby Southland will be inviting local charities to apply for its next multi-year charity partnership in early 2026, with the forthcoming term expected to run for two to three years.

Article added: Tuesday 09 December 2025