A Kilimanjaro Climb in Honour of Sergeant Matt Ratana
Fundraising for the Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation
In June 2025, three men will stand at the foot of Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest peak – and begin a climb in memory of a man who shaped all of their lives. For Eoin and Mark O’Donoghue, this will be an exceptional physical challenge all in tribute of Matt Ratana’s Legacy.
Matt Ratana was more than a rugby coach. To the many young people he guided, and to the players and families of Canterbury RFC and beyond, he was a mentor, a role model, and a friend. Matt’s sudden and tragic death left a void that cannot be filled, but the foundation created in his name ensures his values live on, every week, in communities that need them most.
Eoin O’Donoghue knows this better than most. Matt coached him for years. Mark O’Donoghue, Eoin’s father knew Matt too. Together, they will take on one of the world’s most iconic climbs, raising funds to keep Matt’s legacy alive for the next generation of young people in rugby.
Joining them on the mountain is Tom Hicks, expedition lead, proud to make the ascent again in Matt’s name.
The Climb
Kilimanjaro stands at 5,895 metres above sea level. It is the highest free-standing mountain in the world, and summiting it demands weeks of preparation, physical endurance, and mental resolve. The extreme altitude, shifting weather, and sheer scale of the ascent make it a genuine test of character; the same qualities Matt Ratana embodied and instilled in every athlete he ever coached.
Tom Hicks, expedition lead, has made this journey before. He knows what it demands. For Eoin and Mark, this will be an experience neither will ever forget – made all the more meaningful by who they are climbing for.
The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation
The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation (MRRF) was established in response to the tragic death of police sergeant and rugby coach Matt Ratana. Everything the foundation does is aligned with the values Matt cherished and the ambitions he planned to realise.
Every week, MRRF delivers supervised coaching and classroom sessions for 267 school pupils. For just £50, the foundation can deliver a full session at one of its partner schools – trained coaches, kit, equipment, administration, and safeguarding all included. Your contribution has a direct and immediate impact on young people’s lives.
All funds support the design and delivery of school and community rugby initiatives, nationally and internationally, directly benefiting disadvantaged young people from all backgrounds.
TackleLondon
MRRF works in close partnership with TackleLondon, a youth development programme that uses the power of sports mentoring to support young people affected by deprivation in London.
TackleLondon runs tailored sessions in schools and clubs across the capital, using rugby as a gateway to long-term positive change. By connecting young people to local club communities, TackleLondon creates a support network that extends well beyond a student’s time in education.
How to Support
Donate Online
Every pound donated goes directly to the Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation. Donating takes just a minute:
Upcoming Fundraising Events
Canterbury RFC
Eoin and the team will be fundraising at Canterbury RFC’s final home game and potentially their May Ball the following week. Come along, show your support, and donate on the day.
MRRF Fixture: Met Police v Ratana Marauders – 30 May 2025, East Grinstead RFC
A special fixture at East Grinstead RFC bringing together rugby, community and Matt’s legacy in one place. A deeply meaningful setting to rally support for the Kilimanjaro campaign ahead of the climb.
ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITY
Corporate Sponsorship
A small number of corporate sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses who wish to align with the expedition and the foundation. Sponsors receive prominent recognition across all campaign materials, social media, and at fundraising events. For enquiries, please get in touch via the JustGiving page or contact the team directly.
For Matt. For the next generation.