Swindon-based parking systems firm WPS has helped a women’s rugby team take on the world.
The team from the Bristol Academy of Sport were picked to represent the UK in the Under 20s Rugby World Cup in Japan last month.
Having secured qualification following a surprise win over long-considered favourites Hartpury, the team needed sponsorship to help fund new kit as well as travel and accommodation for the tournament.
Up stepped WPS, whose managing director and keen sports fan Simon Jarvis jumped at the chance of doing something different.
He said: “It is important for businesses to support their local communities in any way possible, and that includes sport.
“I have a personal interest in helping sports people reach their potential, and this particularly appealed as the team were second favourites, and women’s rugby generally is still often overlooked.”
Dutch-owned WPS sells a range of car parking systems such as exit and entry barriers and pay stations from its UK base on the Hillmead Industrial Estate.
The team, sporting kits emblazoned with the WPS logo as main shirt sponsor, finished a creditable sixth in the championship.
Team coach Matt Belbin said the tour was a fantastic opportunity for the women to prove their worth.
“We’re very proud of what the ladies have achieved in Japan, and are extremely grateful to WPS for their support in helping us to get them there,” he said.
Bristol Academy of Sport is part of the South Gloucester and Stroud College (SGS).
Pictured: The Bristol Academy of Sport ladies rugby team in their WPS-sponsored kits
