At Rugby For Life, we know the power of sport stretches far beyond the sidelines. That's why stories like the one from SURF Rugby League Club inspire and reinforce exactly what community sport is all about - whanaungatanga, resilience, and showing up for each other when it counts.
In 2024, the SURF Foundation was born with one simple, meaningful goal: to look after their people. Whether that means providing koha for tangihanga, stepping in with support during tough times, or fundraising for causes close to the club’s heart, the foundation is all about being ready to help whenever, however, and wherever it’s needed most.
More Than Just a Club
The SURF committee created the foundation because they wanted to grow something real, a legacy rooted in community, family and culture. They’re not just building athletes. They’re building a village.
They chose to support local charities in Tokoroa, organisations that represent the same values SURF lives by: connection, care, and compassion. Many of these causes have personal links to the club through players, coaches, and committee members, making every dollar raised even more meaningful.
One of their biggest fundraising highlights so far? An inspiring jersey auction, with playing kits generously donated by Dynasty Sport. Together, the community raised an incredible $15,000, a powerful example of what happens when people unite for the right reasons.
Showing Up When It Matters
This isn’t just about fundraising. The foundation is putting money where its mouth is.
In just two years, SURF has already made a real-world impact. Recently, four players were injured and placed on ACC. Instead of letting them face that challenge alone, SURF stepped in with a $500 koha for each to cover that crucial first week off work. This is what community support looks like.
Rewriting What It Means to Be a Club
“We’re trying to break the stigma of just being a rugby club,” the SURF committee shared. That sentence says it all.
Through the foundation, SURF is proving that rugby can be the starting point for something much bigger.
This year, they’ve already led three community drop-offs:
These aren’t just events. They’re moments of solidarity, where the club and community stand together for something greater.
Food Bank Tokoroa
Food bank Tokoroa Donation
SURF’s kaupapa aligns deeply with Rugby For Life’s vision, to see rugby become a tool for change, not just competition. It’s about belonging. It’s about stepping up for each other. It’s about leaving this game and our communities better than we found them.
We're proud to share the SURF Foundation’s journey. It’s grassroots giving back, driven by love and led by example.