T H E R E I G AT I A N 2 018
FOUNDATION ACTIVITIES
DREAM STEAM SOCIAL WEDNESDAY 21 NOVEMBER
The Dream Steam Social with Paul Gustard was sponsored by Fluid and held at Steam Wine Bar, a stone’s throw from Monument. Once again, our fabulous host for the evening was Stephen Chenery (RGS 1982-1985), owner of Steam Wine Bar who laid on a wonderful evening for members of the Reigatian community.
Our special guest Paul Gustard, former Leicester Tigers, London Irish & Saracens player/ coach, ex-England defence coach and current Harlequins Head Coach was introduced to a warm welcome. Paul spoke of his early days growing up and playing rugby in Blaydon, some ‘physical’ changing room tales of his time at Tigers and his development from player to coach including his time within the England camp with Eddie Jones. Guests were treated to a delicious dinner followed by the main auction, the focus of our fundraising for the evening. There were impressive items on offer. Paul Gustard very generously offered a Harlequins Training Day Experience which included the opportunity to rub shoulders with all the Quins stars, watch a 1st team training session and have lunch with the players followed by a private training session run by coaches from Quins, for up to 10 people. As bidding was so close the final two bidders were both offered this wonderful experience because Paul didn’t want either to miss out: a magnificent gesture and commitment to the Changing Lives campaign. The aim of the evening was to raise funds to support a particular case that was highlighted on the evening – the generosity of the group was overwhelming and we are delighted that over £15,000 was raised from the evening. A Q&A wrapped up the evening with guests taking the opportunity to pick Paul’s brains on everything from 2019 Rugby World Cup winners to the importance of man-management as a coach.
12
Our thanks go to Stephen Chenery for hosting this fantastic evening, to RGS parent Al Gregson, Group Managing Director at Fluid for his support, and of course Paul Gustard for taking time out from his busy schedule to join us and share his stories from his playing and coaching career. Most importantly, thank you to everyone who attended and supported the evening, it was a resounding success.
