Fund and Award Overview
Announced on the eve of Rick Bourne’s induction into
the BC Rugby Hall of Fame, the Rick Bourne
Rugby Award aims to support students of any gender
who are actively involved in playing rugby in Canada.
This award recognizes the outstanding contributions of
Rick Bourne, a prominent figure in the Canadian rugby
community for over six decades. Rick Bourne’s leadership,
passion and generosity have made a significant impact on
rugby in Canada, making this award a deserving tribute to his
legacy. The awards will be funded from donations to the
endowment fund and earnings on the fund’s assets.
Rick Bourne’s extensive involvement as a player, coach, administrator, volunteer, director,
philanthropist and leader within the Canadian rugby community has inspired the establishment of this
award. His remarkable leadership through rugby in Canada has left a lasting legacy. While many
exceptional leaders have emerged within Canadian rugby, Rick Bourne stands as one of the most
successful, passionate and generous individuals the country has ever witnessed.
Eligibility:
To be eligible for the Rick Bourne Rugby Award, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Gender and Rugby Participation: Applicants must be students actively participating in rugby in
Canada. The award is open to all genders. Whether involved in club or university rugby, the
award is open to individuals dedicated to the sport. - Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 17 and 24 years of age.
- Academic Enrollment: Applicants must be enrolled in a full-time or part-time degree (graduate
or undergraduate), diploma or certificate program at a Canadian college or university. The
program should commence in the academic year for which the award is granted. Students
starting their studies in the fall semester are eligible.
General Guidelines:
- Reapplication: Unsuccessful applicants are welcome to reapply in subsequent years.
- Conditional Aweard: The award is contingent upon the acceptance and continuance of
the applicant’s chosen educational program. Verification of acceptance into the program will be
required. - Application Submission:
a. Submit a completed application form from the Canadian Rugby Foundation.
b. Attach a letter, not more than 250 words, describing the reasons why you would be a
worthy recipient of the Rick Bourne Rugby Award. Include your contributions to the
rugby community, how you have helped expand the game, other volunteer activities,
your academic achievements, your most important accomplishments and your future
goals;
c. Attach two letters of reference from the two individuals named in your application. One
must be someone who has been involved with you in the rugby community;
d. Attach a photograph in .jpg format. We would prefer if the applicant is wearing a rugby
jersey in the photo but that is not required (once submitted the photo will be the
property of the Canadian Rugby Foundation).
NOTE: Items 1 to 4 above must be e-mailed to cdnrugbyfoundation.financial@gmail.com to
complete the award application.
4. Publicity and Promotion: The award recipient must consent to having their name and
photograph publicized. Additionally, they should be prepared to support the promotion of the
award as requested.
Selection Criteria:
The selection of the Rick Bourne Rugby Award recipient will be based on the following criteria:
- Active Participation: Applicants must demonstrate active involvement in playing rugby and a
commitment to staying engaged in the sport. - Contribution to the Rugby Community: Applicants should exhibit a recognized contribution to
both the local community and the broader rugby community, showcasing their impact both on
and off the field.
Application Process:
- Submit a completed application form;
- Attach a letter, not more than 250 words, describing the reasons why you would be a worthy recipient of the Rick Bourne Rugby Award. Include your contributions to the rugby community, how you have helped expand the game, other volunteer activities, your academic achievements, your most important accomplishments and your future goals;
- Attach two letters of reference from the two individuals named in your application. One must be someone who has been involved with you in the rugby community;
- Attach a photograph in .jpg format. We would prefer if the applicant is wearing a rugby jersey in the photo but that is not required (once submitted the photo will be the property of the Canadian Rugby Foundation).
NOTE: Items 1 to 4 above must be e-mailed to cdnrugbyfoundation.financial@gmail.com to complete the award application.
Deadline:
- Applications should be submitted by email no later than June 1st at 4pm PST.
- Award winners will be notified by June 30th. Only the winner will be notified. The Selection Committee thanks all applicants for their interest in the Rick Bourne Rugby Award and wishes them success in the classroom, on the field and in the development of the sport of rugby in Canada.
For any further inquiries or clarifications, please refer to the contact information included in the
application instructions.
About Rick Bourne
Rick Bourne: Before and After
Rugby Canada & Langara Partnership incl. Rick Bourne bio
Shawnigan Lake School Interview
To make a donation to the Rick Bourne Rugby Award Fund, see below:
