Scorpion player Paul Emanuelli with his mother Kay, wearing a shirt embroidered with the Mothers’ Union logo
Forget big brand sponsorship by car dealers and brewers. One rugby team will be showing how much their mothers mean to them by sporting the logo of the Christian charity, Mothers’ Union on their shirt collars when they play their match on Mothering Sunday.
The South Wales Scorpions Rugby League Club is also holding a collection for the charity’s “Make A Mother’s Day” appeal this Sunday at their Kingstone Press Championship 1 match against Hemel Stags at Maesteg RFC (kick-off 3pm). The appeal encourages people to donate a ‘gift’ instead of buying a present for their mothers.
The idea came from Scorpions’ captain Phil Carleton, whose mother is a stalwart member of the charity, and members of local branches will be on the sidelines on Sunday to cheer them on.
Carleton, whose mum Jean is president of the Mothers’ Union branch in Durham, said: “When I heard of the opportunity to get involved with the Mothers’ Union on such an event I jumped at the chance. I’m sure I speak for all when I say without our mums, over the years, we would be lost.
“I just think about the times my mum has taxied, cheered and consoled me through my life and that’s not just on the sports field. For me this is the very least we can do in giving them one day back, I know I owe mine a whole lot more. I just hope that those at The Old Parish on Sunday can give generously to the Mothers’ Union collection.
“There are a lot less fortunate (worldwide) out there than us and any small contribution can make a big difference. To see some of their work and what your money can go towards please visit their website www.mothersunion.org”
Scorpions’ player assistant coach Paul Emanuelli added: “As a rugby league player, I know how much support families, especially mothers, give to all players however old we are.
“Where would we have been growing up without mum giving us lift to training, washing our kit, making the sandwiches or shouting from the sidelines? Not everyone is that fortunate so we’re delighted to support an organisation that cares for families so much and want the best for them.”
Mothers’ Union was set up almost 150 years ago to help parents care for their children, as from the outset it recognised that strong relationships and the role of family, however defined, are crucial in building healthy communities.
Today, they support families of all or no faiths all over the world with practical support for crises such as bereavements, financial emergencies, supporting families separated by imprisonment or simply being an ear to listen to.
Raye Saunders, President of the Llandaff Diocese Mothers’ Union, who’ll be at the match on Sunday, said: “Behind each big, tough rugby player there’s usually a mum who’s been keeping them in shape and holding things together since before they ever ran with a ball.
“We are thrilled that the Scorpions are highlighting Mothers’ Union and supporting our ‘Make a Mother’s Day’ appeal. Hopefully they will help us reach out to a wider circle of people. Just like players in a rugby team working together to achieve their goal, Mothers’ Union members also work together supporting marriage and family life worldwide.”
Before the match there will be a Mother’s Day lunch at the Scorpion’s official pub, The Maltsters Arms, where anyone who buys a lunch on that day will be given a voucher to get into the match for half-price. Places for this lunch are nearly sold out and patrons are advised to call 01656 732231 to book.
Then before and during the match, there will be entertainment for the family with the popular inflatable jousting making its second appearance.
Normal admission price to South Wales Scorpions v Hemel Stags is just £8 for adults, £6 concessions, £5 for students, high school children for £2 and children aged 11 and under for £1. Please go to www.scorpionsrl.com for more details and to buy advance tickets.
For more information on “Make a Mother’s Day” go to www.makeamothersday.org.
