Our Team

our team

Rugby 1st

Rugby 1st Limited – www.rugby1st.com – is a not-for-profit business networking and activation community that builds corporate connections and works at the grassroots community level to support Rugby.  Our Facebook following is 60k+ and we are well supported by a member database, website, LinkedIn and Instagram followers.  Some of our key current initiatives include:

  • Sponsorship of NSW Junior Rugby Union – including the Under 16’s Girls Championships and Rep Boys
  • Sponsorship of Hearts in Union and Guns Out Spinal Foundation – supporting players injured in the Game
  • Conception and delivery of the Vet Friendly Club program supporting Veteran Sport Australia

Rugby 1st administers the Vet Friendly Club program. Our network and reach into business and communities will be utilised to tap into new and relevant opportunities to support, expand and create awareness for the program and its partners.

Veterans can contact Rugby 1st to access their business networking and connection opportunities at any time.

The Team includes:

  • Alexandra Lyus – Rugby 1st Director / VFC Logistics & Veterans Manager
  • Angus Stewart – Rugby 1st Director / VFC Logistics & Clubs Manager
  • Dan Gardner – Rugby 1st & VFC Social Media Manager
  • Mary Caldwell – Rugby 1st & VFC Website & Creative Manager
  • Rod Stewart – RSL NSW sub-Branch Liaison Officer

Veteran Sport Australia

 Veteran Sport Australia (VSA) – www.veteransport.org.au – was founded as the legacy of Invictus Games Sydney 2018 and was originally established by RSL NSW. VSA supports veterans and their families to proactively improve their health and wellbeing through sport and recreation.  A national program, VSA works with the Australian sport system, veteran organisations and the ADF to provide a network of opportunities.

The Team includes:

  • Michael Hartung – Chief Executive Officer
  • Sam McIntosh – Director, Veteran Engagement and Community Participation
  • Rachel Kerrigan – Veteran Engagement Specialist
  • Ceridwen Thomas – Coordinator, Operations & Program Services
  • Anne Rutlidge – Coordinator, Veteran Teams and Events

Veterans can find VSA contact information at time of registration and/or request to have their contact information supplied to VSA for inclusion in their database and to receive news and information.

VSA works with the Australian sport system, veteran organisations and the ADF

RSL NSW

It is vitally important to the success of the VFC program that sub-Branches in the catchment area of the Rugby Clubs establish and maintain a relationship with the local Club.  In some cases, there is already a close relationship, but this is not the case everywhere. The VFC program depends on the RSL, through sub-Branches, ensuring that Veterans are receiving the care and entitlements they deserve outside the sporting sphere. Veterans can find a list of participating sub-Branches at time of registration and/or request to have their contact information supplied to the branch.
“This is a great initiative for veterans who are Rugby lovers. It allows them to follow their sport in the way they want and however they are capable of participating. Importantly, it also provides a social outlet that is vital for vets newly transitioned from service.”
Rod Stewart, Liaison for RSL NSW