Dragons RFC is pleased to announce the successful approval of a National Lottery grant application by Tai Calon Community Housing, securing a £20,000 grant to launch a groundbreaking E-Sports initiative in collaboration with the Men of Gwent.
This initiative is tailored for schools and youth groups in Blaenau Gwent, aiming to connect with gaming enthusiasts among the pupils and open doors to the rapidly expanding E-Sports industry.
In late November 2023, Tai Calon submitted a grant proposal to the National Lottery, outlining our vision for an inclusive E-Sports project to engage students across Blaenau Gwent.
The primary objectives include:
- Fostering a sense of community
- Promoting inclusivity
- Educating students about the diverse opportunities within the E-Sports sector
Partnering with Dragons RFC, the initiative brings together the worlds of sports and gaming to create a unique and enriching student experience.
The project targets all four secondary schools in Blaenau Gwent, encouraging students to explore the inclusive and dynamic world of E-Sports.
Students can form teams and compete in leagues against other schools, promoting teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship. Beyond gaming, the project introduces students to various team roles such as Manager, Content Creator, Admin, and more, showcasing the diverse career paths within the E-Sports industry.
This initiative is fully inclusive, embracing all genders and individuals with physical or mental disabilities. It marks a pioneering effort in Blaenau Gwent to make E-Sports accessible to everyone.
Tai Calon is delighted to share that our grant application was approved in January 2024. With the necessary funding secured, we are procuring equipment and planning for the official launch of the Inter-Schools League by March 2024.
Phillip Meek - Wellbeing Manager at Tai Calon, expressed his excitement, stating: "We are incredibly grateful to the National Lottery for recognising the potential of this project. This initiative introduces students to the world of E-Sports and promotes inclusivity and diverse career opportunities within the industry."
Dan Nicholls, from Dragons RFC, added: “Its been a pleasure to welcome Tai Calon, along with Phil and his team, to join us on our Dragons RFC journey into the world of Esports.
"To be able to add a Community Partner to our ongoing project, gives us great scope to engage with a new brand of supporters, throughout the Gwent region. The funding obtained will be critical to ensure we deliver on this exciting initiative - via our ongoing outreach programme in Blaenau Gwent."
To discover more about our ongoing outreach programme in Blaenau Gwent click HERE - To find out more about Dragons RFC Esports click HERE
Tai Calon was established in July 2010, as a "not-for-profit" organisation and the biggest provider of homes (almost 6,000) in Blaenau Gwent. Tai Calon exists to inspire its people so that they go beyond affordable housing and are driven to create vibrant communities across Blaenau Gwent. Tai Calon's Well-Being Team is committed to fostering well-being and community engagement in partnership with various initiatives. The collaboration with Dragons RFC in Esports is another step toward building a stronger, more inclusive community.
For more information on Tai Calon click HERE
We are incredibly grateful to the National Lottery for recognising the potential of this project. This initiative introduces students to the world of E-Sports and promotes inclusivity and diverse career opportunities within the industry...
