The Oak Bay Barbarians Alumni have raised $12,000 in this yearB次元官网网址檚 fundraising drive.

Over the past 10 years, the network of former players has raised $80,000 to pay for the clubB次元官网网址檚 running costs, such as buses and accommodation.

The alumniB次元官网网址檚 fundraising efforts started small, with dinners and collections, but have grown thanks to the power of the simple email list. Now wherever former Barbs are around the world, they can still financially contribute to the next generationB次元官网网址檚 success, leading to one of the most supportive sports alumni organizations in western Canada.

The organizers are Lance Abercrombie, Leonard Carson, Canada Hall of Famer Mark Wyatt and coach Gary B次元官网网址淛onoB次元官网网址� Johnston.

B次元官网网址淚tB次元官网网址檚 important we make every dollar count. People can contribute publicly or confidentially,B次元官网网址� says Abercrombie.

Each year the organizers run a three-day fundraising drive. There are two main groups, the high-rollers who contribute amounts in the hundreds or thousands of dollars, and JonoB次元官网网址檚 Age Army who contribute their age in dollars.

Oak Bay is currently the top boyB次元官网网址檚 high-school rugby team in the province after winning the B.C. AAAA championships. The group of Grade 11 and 12 boys follow a rich history, with the Barbarians being consistently among the top four provincial teams over the past decade.

Supporters say the current playersB次元官网网址� success is remarkable as the team hasnB次元官网网址檛 had a pitch to play on in five years, due to a messy dispute between the school board and contractors.

Johnston wants to build on the alumniB次元官网网址檚 successful fundraising efforts by connecting with other former players and friends of the club.

B次元官网网址淲eB次元官网网址檙e only in contact with about 20 per cent of all the guys IB次元官网网址檝e coached,B次元官网网址� says Johnston.

If you would like to join the list or are interested in donations or sponsorships please email garyrobjohnston@gmail.com or visit .

nick.murray@peninsulanewsreview.com
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