About Us
For over 150 years, Machen RFC has stood proudly at the heart of our village — not just as a rugby club, but as a community cornerstone.
Our clubhouse has and still hosts generations of players, supporters, volunteers, youth teams, and families. We provide rugby for all age groups from under 6 right through to seniors, and will be creating a walking rugby side for the older generations next season.
We currently have 150 local children in our mini and junior section, as well as a youth team and two senior teams. We pride ourselves on providing opportunities alongside a safe and nurturing environment that teaches rugby and life skills, with the aim of making our players well rounded individuals both on and off the field.
In response to the Cost of Living Crisis we opened our doors to the wider community by providing a central hub where everyone is welcome. We offer a free space for community groups to meet, Litter picking hub, Co-working spaces, NHS, MP and Councillor Open Surgeries and have become the home of many focus groups looking to improve our local area.
Why are we crowdfunding?
We’re facing one of the toughest challenges in our long history: The roof of our beloved clubhouse is failing – leaking, damaged, and potentially unsafe.
Despite our best efforts to patch the roof over time, the current state of the roof has allowed water to ingress into the upstairs function room, bar and ladies toilets, causing damage to the timbers, plaster work and walls. Without urgent repairs, we risk losing not just a building, but a space where community comes together, where young people grow in character and confidence, and where local spirit thrives.
The club had plans to redevelop the roof a few years ago, but due to the impact of the pandemic and impacts of increased energy costs we have found ourselves in a position where we are financially unable to do so.
How we’ll spend the money raised
We aim to replace the whole roof to the front and back of the rugby club and also replace any existing flat roofs.
The key features being:
• Full removal of damaged roof tiles, some of which are over 50 years old
• Timber inspection and restoration of any damaged timber
• New tiles, guttering, and insulation
• Remove and replace all damaged flat roofs
• Scaffolding, labour, and compliance with safety standards
• To only use local and approved contractors
What Your Support Means
Your donation will:
• Keep our youth, minis, and senior teams training and thriving
• Provide a safe, warm space for community events
• Preserve over 150 years of local sporting heritage
• Show future generations what a united community can achieve
Whether you’re a former player, local resident, business owner, or rugby fan — this is your chance to be part of our legacy.
How you can play your part?
There are four simple ways to help us reach our target, and make this project a reality.
1. Make a pledge. Please don’t delay if you’re going to support us because momentum is key to our success! Check out our Rewards to see what different levels of pledge can get you. Any amount you contribute will be greatly appreciated.
2. Spread the word. Share our project on your social media pages and tell the world to get behind us! The more people we reach, the more support we will get.
3. Offer rewards. Get involved if you are a local business by donating things we can offer to our supporters. We will give you a shout out!
4. Fundraise for us. If you want to run your own fundraiser – maybe a sponsored activity or similar – use the 'contact project' button at the top of our page to let us know. Setting up your own page only takes a few minutes and you won’t need any bank details. Just a fun idea!