News

HSBC partners The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund to host rugby clinic

ST PHOTO: AZMI ATHNI

SINGAPORE – A group of secondary school students in Singapore received an unforgettable experience on April 2, when they trained with world-class rugby players at a coaching clinic hosted by HSBC.

Held at the National Stadium, the clinic, which was led by former United States rugby sevens captain Abby Gustaitis and Britain’s rugby sevens captain Harry Glover, was attended by about 30 beneficiaries from The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund (STSPMF).

The venue will host the Singapore leg of the HSBC SVNS on April 5 and 6.

HSBC Singapore chief executive Wong Kee Joo emphasised the value of such experiences, saying: “We are delighted to be able to offer the beneficiaries of the Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund this once-in-a lifetime opportunity to learn from some of the sport’s most talented names.

“Rugby, and sport as a whole, is such an important tool for youths, teaching us skills and values which are enormously important in later life, such as teamwork, dedication and leadership.

“It is our privilege to be able to use the power of our international network in sport to inspire the next generation and give back to the community in a meaningful way.”

A representative from STSPMF also highlighted the importance of this initiative, saying: “We are very grateful for the invaluable support from HSBC towards our cause, by providing this unique opportunity for our youths. These experiences broaden their perspectives and inspire them to dream.”

For Gustaitis, 33, sharing her love for rugby with aspiring players was a fulfilling experience.

The HSBC Global Ambassador said: “Events like this are so important – both to show the kids what can be possible, and also to share the sport which has been my life for a decade. It was an honour and a lot of fun to be part of this event, and I’ll be keeping my eyes on the Singapore team in ten years or so – who knows, we may have found a future star!”

In addition to the clinic, the young enthusiasts and their parents were also invited to watch the HSBC SVNS tournament in Singapore and explore the HSBC Fun Zone, a dedicated area for HSBC customers.

This initiative is part of HSBC’s global mission to empower young athletes through sport. With partnerships across rugby, golf, badminton, and tennis, HSBC has reached over 550,000 children worldwide through its grassroots sports programmes.

The STSPMF is an organisation that aims to support children from low-income families by providing financial assistance to help them through school.

The Straits Times © SPH Media. Reproduced with permission.