Members of the MAN v FAT Rugby community came together at the end of March to raise vital funds for the #4Ed Foundation.
#4Ed Foundation, set up in 2022 after Ed Slater, who played for Gloucester Rugby and Leicester Tigers, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
Ed’s leadership qualities and tenacity earned him plaudits from teammates and fans alike and now the MAN v FAT community will play their part to recognise his career and the need for support for those with MND.
And members of the MAN v FAT Rugby clubs in Cheltenham and Leicester came together to help raise funds at the end of March.
Stuart Croft, who led the fundraising event, told us more.
1) How did the event go on Saturday?
The event exceeded all of our expectations. Bournville Rugby Club proved wonderful hosts. 24 players took part in an 80 minute marathon match, and much like the official game between the Cherry and Whites and The Tigers, Leicester ran out comfortable winners.
There was some excellent rugby played by both sides. The chairman of Bournville presented the trophy to the winning captain in the bar over drinks and bacon butties, before players headed off to Villa Park. The total raised by the two teams was over £2,500.Â
2) How good was it to share stories and experiences with other members of the MAN v FAT community?
It was great to meet up with others in the Man v Fat family and to re-establish links made at the national championships in September.Â
3) Did you enjoy the rest of the day at the match?
Sadly for the Gloucester contingent, the game at Villa Park was somewhat of a disappointment, only tempered by bumping into Gloucester legends Phil Vickery and Mike Tindall in the car park!
4) Do you have any other future fundraising plans in mind?
The Slater Cup match will now become an annual event with the Leicester boys being told to keep the trophy shining for when we reclaim it next year. At the same time, MAN v FAT Cheltenham are hoping to reach out to other teams for matches with the possibility of a tour being mentioned.Â
