The Port of Middlesbrough and MRUFC join forces to inspire the next generation through Lions Park sponsorship
The Port of Middlesbrough has announced its sponsorship of Lions Park, the home of Middlesbrough Rugby Union Football Club's (MRUFC) Mini and Juniors Academy, reinforcing a shared commitment to creating opportunities for young people and building a lasting legacy for Teesside.
The partnership brings together two organisations with deep roots in the region and a common belief in the power of community, development and long-term investment in future generations.
For more than 150 years, MRUFC has played a central role in providing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate in rugby while fostering a strong sense of belonging and community spirit. The club's Mini and Juniors section forms the foundation of that success, welcoming hundreds of children each year and helping them develop confidence, teamwork, resilience and communication skills both on and off the pitch.
Community engagement remains at the heart of everything MRUFC delivers, from annual bonfire celebrations and school outreach programmes to summer camps and year-round activities that encourage participation in sport and support young people's wellbeing. Through its sponsorship of Lions Park, the Port of Middlesbrough is helping to ensure these opportunities remain accessible to families.
The investment aligns with the Port of Middlesbrough's wider ambition to support the long-term prosperity of Teesside through meaningful partnerships with schools, charities and grassroots sports organisations. By investing in youth development, the port aims to create positive outcomes that extend far beyond sport, helping young people realise their potential through an introduction to career opportunities in the maritime logistics sector whilst strengthening communities for generations to come.
This partnership comes at a significant time for MRUFC. While many grassroots sports clubs continue to face financial challenges, the club has recently expanded its footprint through the acquisition of the former Tollesby site, now renamed Lions Park. Supported by £140,000 of community-focused grant funding, the facility has undergone significant development and now serves as a dedicated hub for the Mini and Juniors Academy.
With the backing of partners such as the Port of Middlesbrough, the club is well positioned to maximise the impact of its facilities and ensure they remain an inclusive and accessible resource for the wider community. MRUFC has a proud history of developing talented young players, many of whom have progressed to representative honours, professional careers and senior rugby within the club. The Minis-to-Seniors pathway remains central to the club's identity, with former juniors regularly returning as coaches, volunteers and first-team players.
The club is also experiencing renewed growth across all areas, including the return of its Women's team after a 20-year absence, increased senior rugby participation and continued expansion of touch rugby sessions. Maintaining this momentum requires ongoing investment in coaching, welfare and facilities, making community partnerships more important than ever.
Gary Dawson, Chairman of AV Dawson who owns and operates the Port of Middlesbrough, said:
"At the Port of Middlesbrough, we believe that creating a lasting legacy means investing in people and communities. Lions Park is much more than a sports facility; it is a place where young people can learn, grow and develop valuable life skills. We are proud to support MRUFC and help ensure both sporting and career opportunities remain available for current and future generations across Teesside."
Phil Tilson, Chair of MRUFC, said:
"The support of the Port of Middlesbrough is a significant boost for our club and the wider community we serve. Their commitment to young people and grassroots sport aligns closely with our values and ambitions. This partnership will help us continue providing high-quality facilities, coaching and opportunities for children and families across Teesside while strengthening the future of our club. We are very grateful to the Port of Middlesbrough and we would encourage other businesses and Teesside leaders to partner with us.”
Gemma Richardson, Volunteers Coordinator & Head of the Lions Park Task Force, said:
“Lions Park is more than just a place to play rugby. It's a special place filled with memories, friendships, laughter and community spirit. It's where our rugby family come together, support one another and create something we can all be proud to call our home.”
Through its support of Lions Park, the Port of Middlesbrough is helping MRUFC continue to provide a place where children and young people can learn, develop and enjoy sport, ensuring rugby remains a positive force within Middlesbrough.