On Friday 25 September, Matt Ratana, Head Coach of East Grinstead RFC was tragically killed whilst on duty in his role as Custody Sergeant. Aside from his work in the police, Matt worked tirelessly as a rugby coach for all ages and a mentor to young people. He spoke often to his various teams of the importance of ‘ Whānau’, which in Maori means, your community, your family. He was an inspirational leader, friend and teacher. 

He was wholly inclusive and ran teams from the very young through the men’s and women’s senior teams, as well as encouraging all ages to engage with the sport. Croydon RFC are extremely proud to be working with the foundation to continue to grow and develop the mini and junior sections and enable us to expand our reach into the wider community in New Addington, Selsdon, West Wickham and Hayes.