As part of the initiative, each player will receive a monthly financial allowance of Rs. 135,000 in appreciation of their achievements in domestic and international rugby competitions during the past year.
In addition, 16 players of the Sri Lanka women’s national rugby sevens team, who recently emerged champions at the CASA 7s tournament, were presented with a special one-time payment of Rs. 180,000 each.
The allowance distribution programme took place at the Duncan White Auditorium under the patronage of Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Sunil Kumara Gamage.
Speaking at the event, the Minister said Sri Lankan rugby had regained momentum following a difficult period affected by legal and administrative disputes.
He explained that the revival of the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union was achieved through several reforms, including resolving legal issues, appointing temporary administration under the Ministry, introducing a new constitution and conducting elections to appoint new officials.
Minister stated that these measures had contributed to Sri Lanka advancing to third position in Asian rugby rankings.
He also highlighted that this was the first occasion a team sport had been brought under the “Mission Olympic” programme, which had previously focused primarily on athletics.
The Minister added that the government plans to extend similar support to other team sports capable of achieving international success.
He further revealed that Cabinet approval has already been granted to establish a programme to provide government employment opportunities for national-level athletes, while the necessary administrative work is currently being finalised.
Officials representing the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Department of Sports Development, the Sri Lanka Rugby Football Union and national rugby players attended the event.
