The Waddleton Cup Annual Charity Rugby Match

This Saturday, the Charters Stags will take to the field once again as they compete to regain the Waddleton Cup in the annual charity rugby match, which this year is taking place at Camberley Rugby Football Club, GU15 2SR.

The much-anticipated event, now becoming a firm favourite in the school calendar, was founded by Mr Watts, whose passion for rugby and commitment to the Charters community inspired the creation of the fixture.

Now proudly part of the Charters family, Mr Watts originally launched the Waddleton Cup to bring students, staff and families together in a new and meaningful way while raising funds for the Sowers & Growers Garden — a project he established.

“I originally created the Waddleton Cup as a way of bringing the Charters School community together in a way that didn’t already exist within the school calendar,” explained Mr Watts. “I wanted to introduce something a bit different — something built around a sport I’m genuinely passionate about, but also something that could grow and become a lasting tradition over the years.”

He added that speaking to students about the prospect of teachers playing rugby quickly confirmed the idea’s potential.

“Their enthusiasm and reactions made it clear that this was something they would truly enjoy and engage with, which made me confident it was worth pursuing.”

What began as a charity match has rapidly grown into a special community occasion, attracting players from across the country and generating huge excitement among students and staff alike.

“The players absolutely love it,” said Mr Watts. “Last year, I had seasoned veterans getting quite emotional because the day meant so much to them — it had become a genuinely special experience.”

This year’s squad includes representatives from six different rugby clubs as well as the British Army, with many players travelling significant distances to support the cause.

“For many, this is deeply personal,” Mr Watts explained. “Several players have family members with additional needs, so they really value the opportunity to support our SEN students.”

Funds raised from the event will go directly towards the continued development of the Sowers & Growers Garden, helping to expand opportunities for students while raising awareness of the project’s impact within the wider school community.

“At its core, this match is about two key things: raising awareness and raising funds,” said Mr Watts. “We want to shine a light on the fantastic work our students are doing in the Sowers & Growers garden, and equally, we want to ensure that work can continue to grow and thrive.”

Alongside organising the event, Mr Watts will also be pulling on his boots and taking to the pitch himself — a balancing act he admits comes with its challenges.

“There’s a huge amount of time and energy that goes on behind the scenes to make the day as successful as it is — not just enjoyable for everyone involved, but also safe for all the players taking part,” he said.

Despite the pressure, the overwhelming excitement surrounding the occasion continues to make the hard work worthwhile.

“Seeing the excitement it generates — students talking about it around school and the smiles it brings — that’s what really matters.”

The event has become a brilliant example of the Charters' value of Unity in action, bringing together students, staff, families and the wider rugby community in support of a meaningful cause.

“What makes the event so special is that it achieves both of those aims while also bringing the whole community together,” said Mr Watts. 

Supporters are encouraged to come along and cheer on the Charters Stags as they look to reclaim the Waddleton Cup in what promises to be another memorable day of rugby and community spirit.

Tickets for the match are £5 for adults and £1 for under 18s and can be purchased on the gate, or via the link below:
https://www.trybooking.com/uk/GFJV