Maddy’s Mark at Twickenham
When almost 60,000 fans enjoyed the Red Roses’ Grand Slam at Twickenham Stadium, the first ever standalone women’s Test, the charity of the day was Maddy’s Mark.
Maddy Lawrence died in March 2022, aged just 20, from a hospital infection after an injury sustained playing rugby for the University of the West of England, and family, friends and teammates were devastated. Maddy was very special and so too was the support that her family received from all who knew her in the game. Now that support has extended to the Home of England Rugby.
Maddy had a smile for everyone and the two things closest to her heart were rugby and mental health. She believed fervently in teamwork, mutual support and fellowship, reflecting the values of the rugby community.
Maddy’s Mark, her charity, follows that example, and was set up to help young women use those principles to promote boldness and resilience. In their first year, Maddy’s Mark has agreed funding in partnership with London Irish and Bristol Bears for schools’ programmes and plans new and exciting initiatives with others.
Said Maddy’s father, Simon Lawrence: “It was humbling to see the scale of the Twickenham operation first hand, but at the same time to see how much everyone at the RFU wants Maddy's Mark to succeed, so we can bring more young women to our wonderful sport.
“We were so honoured to be part of such a thrilling experience. What a remarkable game. Our ears and hearts are still ringing. So, our heartfelt thanks to everyone at Twickenham, who went out of their way to make our day such a success, to the fans who listened and donated and to our whole family of rugby for their continuing kindness, generosity and support."
With continuing help from the rugby community, Maddy’s charity will hopefully achieve her mark, and the potential taken from her can in some way be realised. Discover more at www.maddysmark.com and if you would like to donate, please go to justgiving.com/maddysmark
