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Inclusion Takes the Field: Mixed Ability Rugby Sets the Stage for GB7s in Singapore

A Week of Heart and Tries

On Wednesday, April 2nd, something truly special happened in Singapore.

In a collaboration with The Anita, Alex and Annabel Nicholson Memorial Fund and Atlas Asia, children of all abilities came together for a Mixed Ability Rugby Programme session like no other- hosted by Kidmando, supported by ActiveOps, and made unforgettable by the presence of GB7s players. This powerful event championed the values of teamwork, respect, and inclusion, creating a joyful space where kids could play side by side, no matter their background or ability.

The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as the children got stuck into drills, passing games, and touch rugby—guided and inspired by some of the country’s top sevens athletes. The players gave their all, but so did the kids. There were grins, high-fives, and memories made that will last a lifetime. The tops- generously sponsored by Monsoon – added an extra spark, making every young participant feel like a professional stepping onto the world stage.

This wasn’t just about rugby. This day was about community, visibility, and the belief that sport can open doors, break barriers, and lift everyone up.

Mixed Ability Rugby started as a small aspirational idea to support inclusion and growth using rugby as our catalyst for lessons that would go far beyond the rugby pitch. The opportunity offered to us from ActiveOps and GB7s’ Try For Good campaign allows us to widen our community. With the foundations in place and the support from this campaign, we can continue to nurture the project.

Rosie Chong

Coordinator for the Anita, Alex, and Annabel Nicholson Memorial Fund, Atlas Asia

The Tries Are Coming…

And the week isn’t over yet.

The Mixed Ability Rugby session may have wrapped up—but the GB7s men’s and women’s teams now turn their attention to the HSBC SVNS Singapore tournament this weekend. And there’s more than just glory on the line.

As part of the “Try For Good” campaign, ActiveOps has pledged to donate for every try scored by GB7s during the tournament—all in support of The Atlas Foundation’s life-changing work. That means every break, every sprint, and every dive for the line won’t just thrill the crowd—it’ll directly help create brighter futures for children through rugby.

“You can see how much the children enjoy the experience, and we hope that by extending rugby—such a powerful team sport—into these schools, we are giving children the opportunity to participate, gain the benefits of a team environment, and interact with peers from different backgrounds. We hope they not only have fun but also learn a great deal, breaking down barriers between kids in the special needs sector and those in mainstream schools.”

Ben Nicholson

Founder, Trustee, Alex and Annabel Nicholson Memorial Fund, The Atlas Foundation

Good Luck, GB7s!

As the teams prepare to take the field, we send our loudest cheers from Singapore to the players wearing the GB7s jersey. Every try will count. Every pass and tackle will carry more meaning. You’ve already inspired a generation of future players through this week’s incredible mixed ability session—now go light up the stadium!

Go well, GB7s. We’re behind you all the way.

 

Matt Durant, Glyphh Photography

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