Jack Segust Memorial Cup 2019
Now in it's 8th year the Jack Segust Memorial match, organised by the University of Portsmouth Rugby Football Club (UPRFC), took place on Wednesday 25 September in front of a sell out crowd. The match takes place each year at United Services Ground in Burnaby Road. Over 500 tickets were sold before the event with over 400 being purchased on the door. With all proceeds going to charity, it was a fantastic turnout for a special event.
In August 2012, Jack Segust was airlifted to hospital following a tragic vehicle accident and later died of his injuries. Jack played for UPRFC for 2 years and was heading into the final year of his Civil Engineering degree. He was adored by all at the club as a player, member but, most of all, as a friend.
Eight years on, UPRFC still celebrate Jack's life every year with the memorial match raising money for charity. It's been a tradition that every year the current Club XV play against the graduated Club Old Boys XV. It's always a fiercely fought contest, with the Old Boys XV wanting to show their experience and the current Club XV wanting get the victory.
On a day that had been littered with rain, the weather brightened up before the start of the game and stayed dry for the event to the delight of the spectators. The scene was set, both teams lined up in front of the main stand, in front of the attending Segust family. A minutes' silence was held before kick off, finished with a round of applause from everyone attending. The atmosphere was electric, with UPRFC freshers meeting other clubmen, lots of songs being sung and the Segust name being chanted throughout. It was a great celebration with lots of sports clubs and societies out in force supporting the club.
After a tough fought first 15 minutes the current Club XV turned it up a notch, with some great play between both teams. The current Club XV came out strong again in the second half with some great play finishing the game 38-7. Arthur Robinson (Current Club XV, 15) received the man of the match. Leaving the current Club XV the victors and captain Alex Hankins being presented the cup by Jack Segust's grandfather.
It was a great game of rugby, played in a fantastic spirit and the Segust family again, really enjoyed the occasion. It was lovely to see so many old faces back playing again and contributing to make the event such a success.
A raffle was held by the club with prizes such as a signed Harlequins ball, a signed Harlequins shirt, Spinnaker Tower tickets, Portsmouth FC Match tickets as well as much more. Over £150 was raised through the raffle alone. Over £4000 was raised which will be split between Macmillan Cancer Support and the Midlands Air Ambulance.
UPRFC are currently taking on members, if you're interested in getting involved in rugby whilst at university visit the UPRFC page.