Bristol Bears Foundation is proud to announce the renewal of its partnership with the Maddy’s Mark for the 2026/27 academic year, continuing a shared commitment to inspire more girls to get involved in rugby across the region.
Through the partnership, Maddy’s Mark supports the Foundation’s Eagle Project, a programme designed to provide young women with a safe, inclusive and encouraging environment to try rugby and support their physical and mental wellbeing.
The programme combines non-contact rugby sessions with opportunities to explore mental health, resilience and positive coping strategies in workshops, helping Eagle Project participants in Years 7 and 8 develop both on and off the pitch.
Many participants will be introduced to rugby for the first time through the programme, supporting the Foundation’s Beyond The Bear strategy to widen access to the sport and inspire new communities through meaningful, enjoyable experiences.
The renewed partnership follows a successful 2025/26 academic year for the Eagle Project. The programme reached 490 girls aged 11–13 across six secondary schools in the region, delivering 72 hours of activity throughout the academic year.
The impact extended beyond the rugby sessions, with the programme helping girls develop confidence, discover new interests and take their first steps into the sport.
Key highlights from the 2025/26 academic year included:
490 girls engaged through the Eagle Project.
72 hours of programme delivery across the academic year
Six secondary schools involved in the programme
152 girls participated in Eagle Project Festivals
75% of girls reported feeling more confident to try new things
Seven girls transitioned into a local rugby club
These outcomes demonstrate the value of providing girls with positive first experiences of rugby, alongside opportunities to build friendships, strengthen their self-belief and develop a greater understanding of their physical and mental wellbeing.
Ollie Morton, Bristol Bears Foundation Head of Projects and Development, said: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Maddy’s Mark into the 2026/27 academic year. The impact of the Eagle Project last year shows just how powerful sport can be in creating opportunities for young women to grow in confidence, try something new and develop skills that will benefit them well beyond the pitch.
“We would like to thank Maddy’s Mark for its continued support and look forward to reaching more young women, helping them feel empowered, connected and confident in the year ahead through the power of rugby and the Bristol Bears brand.”
Founded in memory of Maddy Lawrence, who passed away in March 2022 aged just 20, Maddy’s Mark works to promote positive mental health and wellbeing in young women through rugby. The charity’s support helps create opportunities for girls to access the sport while developing confidence, resilience and lasting friendships.
Simon Lawrence, Maddy’s dad and Co-Founder of Maddy’s Mark, said: “We are incredibly proud to continue our partnership with Bristol Bears Foundation and support the Eagle Project for another academic year.
“Maddy’s Mark was established to promote positive mental health and wellbeing in young women through rugby. Eagle Project embodies that mission, giving girls the opportunity to experience the benefits of sport in a supportive environment where they can build confidence, resilience and belonging. We look forward to continuing this work together and helping even more girls discover what rugby can offer.”
