5 years ago I went on a rugby tour to South Africa, that subsequently gripped my heart and led me to go back 3 more times. During this time I came across the amazing work of Sports Academy George (SAG), which I have been fortunate enough to go out and work alongside, the longest being 3 months.

13/8/2015

My summers spent with SAG have completely transformed me. I owe a great deal to their full time staff, for all their investment in me, as well as the young people SAG work with. These youths are some of the most at risk for their age as a result of poverty, fatherless homes, substance abuse and increasing gang crime. Their determination to make something of themselves despite the overwhelming statistics stacked against them is truly inspiring. SAG use the disciplines of Sport and the Christian faith to raise up the next generation of leaders who will bring about lasting change in their communities.

13/8/2016

I really believe in the work SAG, I’ve seen first hand the difference they make. I have built relationships with young people in the townships so each time I go back I can see how they've grown in confidence, walking out their purpose and identity. Unfortunately, opportunities for further education and full-time employment for the under-privileged in South Africa are limited with only 1 in 8 going on to University or full-time employment. SAG have seen twelve of their students go on to further education during their 10 years and over sixty of students find full-time employment.

3/7/2017

So, on the 27th of September I will climb the equivalent of Everest (8,848m) in 48 hours, by climbing Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh 35.25 times. I want to raise a pound for every meter climbed to support SAG in building a new school, George Royal Academy; a private school for the underprivileged. The school provides students with a better education, and also caters for their basic needs including food and clothing. Alongside the amazing work already being done, of which I have been so blessed by, better education is the next step in developing students into the successful, God glorifying young men and women they deserve to be.

27/9/2018

27/9/2019