In 2025, England Rugby’s official partner, Continental Tyres, in partnership with Kwik Fit and Volunteer It Yourself (VIY), aims to empower young girls and women to participate in rugby by eliminating barriers to their involvement. This initiative focuses on promoting equality in sports and revitalising community spaces, specifically by renovating rugby clubs and boosting facilities for girls, whilst helping local young people to gain hands-on trade & employability skills.
The importance of this sentiment was echoed by Continental Ambassador and World Rugby 15’s Player of the Year, Ellie Kildunne, who visited Anchorian’s Sport Club in Gillingham: “Projects like this will definitely accelerate girls and women getting involved in rugby,” she shared. Ellie recalled the early days of her rugby career getting changed in cars or behind towels. She emphasised that quality, private changing rooms, though seemingly a small step, make girls feel more included in their clubs. These modern facilities are crucial for nurturing the future of women’s rugby
Continental Tyres, Kwik Fit, and VIY are committed to fostering inclusivity and breaking down barriers in sports. “Working with this partnership is a fantastic opportunity for us to improve grassroots sports facilities in communities, whilst also supporting local young people to gain hands-on work experience through our mentoring programme, gaining skills, City & Guilds accreditations and work-readiness on our projects,” said Hannah Denny, VIY. And it’s clear that the new facilities have already had a profound impact on the young athletes. “The girls were thrilled,” said Simon Somerset, Anchorian’s Youth & Mini’s Chairman. “Having Ellie here made the day even more special—they won’t forget it”.
Continental Tyres’ partnership with Kwik Fit and VIY spotlights their continued support for Women’s Sport. Laura Cowling, Retail Campaign Manager at Kwik Fit, commented “It’s been inspiring to see the impact the new facilities have already had. We’re delighted to be part of this project with Continental and VIY and build on the long-lasting relationship Kwik Fit staff and customers have with the club. Our team of volunteers from our local centres helped with painting and construction and were thrilled to be able to support an important community asset.”
Peter Robb, Marketing Director of Continental Tyres, added: “We are very proud to be part of this project, and we’re thrilled to have Kwik Fit and VIY alongside us. It’s fantastic to see how it’s already making a real difference and creating an inclusive environment where women and girls feel supported in pursuing rugby”.
By championing equity in sports, Continental Tyres is inspiring future athletes and fostering inclusivity. These upgraded facilities remind us that meaningful change starts with commitment and community, one changing room at a time.
This project was co-funded by VIY Partners, including the UK Shared Prosperity Fund with Medway Council, Sport England, and materials from Dulux.
