In 1989, the women of Liberty Fields RFC balanced training, jobs and family life to pursue their dream of forming a women’s rugby team in a country that, at the time, frowned upon women playing the game.

Brought to life in the recent documentary Liberty Fields, their story of grit and determination is the inspiration behind this unique fund, aimed at other teams who’ve overcome challenges to continue playing the game they love.

Aided by a pair of experienced judges, Stylist is searching the length and breadth of the country for a women’s rugby team to take home this incredible prize.

To be in with a chance of winning this one-of-a-kind Guinness x Liberty Fields Fund, we just need to know a little bit more about your team and why you think you deserve to win. 

Complete a short form online using the link below before Friday 20 December 2019, and let us know why your team embodies the spirit of Liberty Fields RFC.

For full terms and conditions see here.

What is the Guinness x Liberty Fields Fund and how does it work?

The Guinness x Liberty Fields Funds is inspired by the spirit of the Liberty Fields rugby team in ‘80s Japan, who overcame societal challenges and raised the bar for women in sport. 

Now we want to inspire more women’s rugby teams to do the same. By applying for the fund, you’ll be in with the chance to win £15,000 to support your women’s rugby team. 

All you need to do is download the form in the link above and answer the questions about the story behind your team and how you’d spend the £15,000 prize.

Who can apply and how?

We want as many teams to apply as possible. Entrants (and their team members) must be 18+ and the team must be either amateur or semi-professional (sorry, but this fund isn’t open to professional teams). All you have to do is download the form in the link, answer the questions and send it to stylistguinnessbursary@stylist.co.uk by 20 December 2019. We can’t wait to hear about how you’d plan to spend the money.

How will the applications be judged?

A panel of judges (at least one of whom will be completely independent from the bursary) will gather after the closing date of 20 December 2019 and review the applications. 

The judges will be looking for an inspiring team who can show that it has overcome or is working to overcome the challenges and barriers it has faced. 

Their decision will also factor in how the team plans on using the bursary fund and the impact the money would make to the team.

What will happen if I am successful?

The chosen team will then be contacted to inform them of the great news within 30 days of the closing date of the competition. 

We’ll also be planning an announcement in Stylist in January 2020 and we’ll work closely with you so you can redeem the fund within 30 days, subject to you entering into a fund acceptance agreement to ensure the funds will be used for the purpose stated in your application.

If I’m successful, when can I use the fund and how long do I have to use it?

You can use the fund as soon as it hits your account. The total sum of £15,000 will need to be used within 12 months of the winner being announced in Stylist magazine. Stylist and/or Guinness may require you to be involved in some post-award activity such as interviews or photo shoots.

How do I use the bursary?

That’s what we want to hear from you! We’re looking for teams that will use the money to help empower women and continue to raise the bar for women’s rugby.

Who do I contact if I have any further questions about the bursary?

Email us with any questions you have to stylistguinnessbursary@stylist.co.uk