This Sunday, December 1st, Old Whitgiftian RFC will proudly host its annual Minis Festival at Croham Road, welcoming over 1,000 young players and their families from across London, Surrey, and Sussex. A much-anticipated highlight of the club’s calendar, this year’s festival holds special significance as it marks the second event dedicated to the memory of Seb Adeniran-Olule.
Honouring Seb’s Legacy
Seb Adeniran-Olule’s passion for rugby, education, and inclusion lives on through Seb’s Foundation, established in his memory in 2016. The foundation has been instrumental in supporting young people from socially disadvantaged backgrounds, offering opportunities to pursue rugby alongside quality education through Seb Scholarships. These scholarships open doors, broaden horizons, and nurture aspirations for students who might otherwise lack such opportunities.
Beyond this, Seb’s Foundation has expanded its mission to address the pressing issue of mental health among young people. With a focus on reducing stigma and preventing suicide – the leading cause of death in under-35s in the UK – the foundation is delivering vital Youth Mental Health First Aid training to teachers and sports coaches. It also offers Youth Mental Health Champion and Ambassador courses for sixth form students and hosts talks for pupils, players, and parents.
Tackling Mental Health Challenges
The statistics are sobering: 1 in 5 young people aged 13-18 will experience mental illness during their lifetime, yet many schools and sports clubs lack the funding needed to train staff to address these challenges. Seb’s Foundation fills this gap, equipping trusted adults with the skills to identify early signs of mental health issues, intervene appropriately, and ensure young people feel supported in seeking help.
With proper training and intervention, research shows that suicide is preventable, and Seb’s Foundation is at the forefront of creating safe, inclusive environments where young people can thrive. Untreated depression is a significant contributor to suicide, and through education and awareness, the foundation empowers communities to break the silence and take action.
Old Whitgiftian RFC: A Community for All
Old Whitgiftian RFC is proud to partner with Seb’s Foundation, aligning with its ethos of inclusion and support. Through initiatives like TackleLondon, The Matt Ratana Rugby Foundation, The Atlas Foundation, and STAR* Scheme, the club champions diversity and community spirit. With players from over 70 local schools and colleges, Old Whitgiftian RFC is a melting pot of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences – all united by a shared love of rugby.
On Sunday, the festival will not only celebrate the game but also the vibrant, inclusive community that Old Whitgiftian RFC represents. From music, laughter and bubbles to a vintage VW campervan serving warm snacks, the festival promises an atmosphere of fun, energy, and camaraderie. Starting at 9 am, the day will continue until the sun sets and energy fades, embodying the club’s welcoming spirit.
Join Us!
Whether you’re a player, parent, or supporter, everyone is welcome to join this special day. Together, we’ll celebrate the joy of rugby, honour Seb’s memory, and work towards a future where every young person feels seen, supported, and empowered.
Don’t miss out—see you on Sunday at Croham Road!