The Oxfam Crusaders (“OC7s”) were formed in 2012 by rugby player Will Affleck and his father, Frank Affleck. The purpose of the team was to compete in one tournament to help raise money for Will’s girlfriend, who was running the London Marathon on behalf of Oxfam at the time.
However, after a very successful tournament win, the team has continued to compete to raise money for charity.
OC7’s draw on players from all over the British Isles and can boast 5 internationals in their side. Captain Will Affleck said:
“We aim to win tournaments and make money through the prize funds for Oxfam. Through these prize funds and our bucket collecting on the days of the tournaments, we’ve raised nearly a thousand pounds for Oxfam.”
According to OC7s, the way they play is with a huge amount of flair, heart and physicality. The team also aims to play with impeccable discipline both on and off the pitch.
One ethos they try hard to maintain is that they are a sevens family and this is reflected in the way that they play and the atmosphere within the camp.
After all, summer + sevens + fundraising just has to be fun!
2014 Plans
In 2013, OC7s came away with silverware and funds from every event entered and plans are now well underway for a bigger series next year, which is due to include the Find Rugby Now 7s tournament.
The team has already gained some much-needed match sponsorship from Daleba Printed Circuits Ltd and Zoo Sport Ltd. and they are confident that next year will be a great success.
“These sponsors have helped us reach new heights in the way we look and play and we are grateful for their participation in our inaugural year”, Will said.
Look out for the OXFAM Crusader Chicks doing the collection throughout the year and please give generously. You can also follow them on Twitter @OXFAMCRUSADERS and through their website, which will be up and running soon.