The 1000 Hills RFC and American outfit, Gypsy International RFC, have kicked off a 2-dollar campaign to raise funds to go into youth development programs throughout the country. Gypsy Treasurer and prop, Dr. Joseph A. Ozalcki flew into the country this week with the start-up fund of US$ 718 raised in the US, which was handed to the 1000 Hills coach and founding member, Jimmy Adams Mugabo at the Gorillas Golf Hotel in Nyarutarama. The campaign was started by 1000 Hills who shared it with Ozalcki last year. Ozalcki and Gypsy’s president Liam Hutchinson sold the idea of their colleagues back at home. Part of the money includes US$500 from an earlier fundraising tee-shirt sale by Ian Patterson, another club member. Dr. Ozalcki is also the Director of Rwandan Teacher Education Program, a program to train local teachers. The American noted that rugby had grown and due to “positive honest and non corrupt people” Rwanda Rugby, like Rwanda (as a country), which for years, was marred with bad leadership but now it has great leadership, and it’s moving forward.” Mugabo said it’s an honor to be a part of the Gypsy club and that the donation would help 1000 Hills RFC to buy equipment and carry out development activities countrywide. According to Mugabo, after one donates the two dollars to the cause, you become a member of the program and can donate every year.
