The Allianz sports fund has awarded £50,000 to local sports clubs in support of diversity and inclusion initiative for its latest round of funding, bringing the total donations to £150,000 across 122 sports clubs since the fund’s launch.
Allianz launched the sports fund in 2021 to allow broker partners to nominate a local sports club or team that takes part in an Olympic or Paralympic sport for a donation of £500 to £3,000. The third and latest round of funding saw Allianz support 43 local clubs with a focus on supporting diversity and inclusion within local communities.
Aquila Taekwondo, Sidcup London, is one beneficiary. It will use the funds to pay for venue hire and equipment for the classes it runs for children with disabilities.
Thanet Wanderers Rugby Union Football Club, Broadstairs, will use its grant to better promote rugby among girls in the Thanet area of Kent.
Beacon Hill Football Club, Surrey (pictured above), bought special frames for children with cerebral palsy to play the game using its grant.
“With this donation, we look forward to building throughout the next season and beyond,” said Neill McWilliams, frame football coach for the club. “This incredible donation will have a real impact enabling children with cerebral palsy to enjoy football.”
As the worldwide insurance partner for the Olympic and Paralympic movements, Allianz Insurance head of brand and social responsibility Carolyn Rich said the company was “passionate about the power of sport”.
“This year we took the opportunity to support clubs who have, or would like to have, programmes which focus on diversity and inclusivity,” Rich said. “We know the important impact that sport has within a community and we’re very happy to support the amazing work local clubs are doing to ensure everyone can benefit.”
The next round of funding will provide support to clubs looking to implement new initiatives and improve coaching. Nominations open on Sept. 5.
