Canterbury RFC grateful for life-saving gift from RALPHH

At Canterbury Rugby Club, we’ve always believed that rugby is more than just a game—it’s about community, camaraderie, and looking out for one another. That’s why we are beyond grateful to RALPHH (The Robert Allen Life Promotion and Healthy Hearts Trust) for their incredible donation of a defibrillator to our club. This isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s something that could save a life—the life of a player, a supporter, or a member of our wider rugby family.

Rugby is about people first
Since 1929, Canterbury RFC has been built on a foundation of togetherness. Whether it’s our five senior men’s teams, our amazing women’s team, our Colts, girls, mini & youth sections, walking rugby, or wheelchair rugby, we are a club for everyone. We even work with the local RugbyTots franchise, introducing boys and girls as young as two years old to the sport. Rugby brings us together, and keeping each other safe is part of our responsibility to the game and each other.

Our Community Department has helped over 2,000 young people get involved in rugby, and through our partnership with Archbishop’s School, we’ve built the ACE Academy, blending expert coaching with academic support. But what makes us most proud is that our club feels like home to so many—whether you’re pulling on a jersey, cheering from the sidelines, or just dropping in for a cuppa at our café.

A heartfelt thanks to RALPHH
When we received this defibrillator, it wasn’t just another addition to our clubhouse—it was a reminder that we are not alone in prioritising safety in sport. We know that sudden cardiac events can happen to anyone, and having this life-saving equipment on hand gives us peace of mind. RALPHH has been doing incredible work across sports like rowing, hockey, and sailing, and we are truly honoured that they have chosen to support us in this way.

Our Chairman, Giles Hilton MBE, was proud to accept the defibrillator alongside Richard Allen, Chairman of RALPHH, and two of our own, Ella Jenkins and Harry Sloan, who dedicate so much to both playing and giving back to the community. Their presence perfectly summed up what this donation means to us—a club that stands together, on and off the pitch.

More than just a game
With 1,750 members, including 750 playing members, Canterbury RFC is more than a rugby club—it’s a family. We are proud of our men’s first team, currently fourth in National 2 East, and our women’s team, sitting at a strong fourth place. But more than wins and league tables, we are proud of the spirit of our club and what it stands for.

This donation reinforces something we have always known—rugby is about looking after each other. Whether it’s a game-winning try or a life-saving defibrillator, every moment matters.

Thank you, RALPHH, for this gift. We hope we never have to use it, but knowing it’s there means the world to us.