Dear Fellow Rugby Players and Fans,

As we all get ready for the first weekend of the South's fall season, the Hurricane Katrina recovery effort has only just begun. Our fellow ruggers and their neighbors and families along the Gulf Coast have many hard days, weeks, and months ahead before their lives return to any semblance of normalcy. For some, that will never be the case. Our hearts go out to everyone that has been affected by this terrible disaster. I have no idea what it takes to get through something as tragic as this, but I do know that our community is standing up.

Right now, the greatest need is for direct relief efforts. Eventually, after the primary requirements for food, shelter and clothing are met, players and clubs and their families will want to resume playing and supporting their sport. Along with our partners in the rugby community, we are offering a t-shirt from which 100% of the proceeds will go to a fund already started by former USA Rugby Captain, Brian Vizard and the US Rugby Football Foundation. The US Rugby Football Foundation will then allocate these funds specifically for rugby redevelopment in the areas affected by the Hurricane.

All of our partners listed below are underwriting 100% of the cost of this fund raising effort. Every dollar you spend on this merchandise will go directly to the Rugby Union Recovery hosted by the US Rugby Football Foundation. Help demonstrate the rugby community's dedication to ensuring that our glorious game is played again in the affected areas.

Bernard Frei, CEO of World Rugby Shop

You can buy a Rugby Union Recovery Fund T-shirt from which 100% of the proceeds will go into the recovery fund. To buy online, simply visit www.WorldRugbyShop.com.

You can also make a direct donation through the USRFF website at www.usrugbyfoundation.org. Once on the site, click on the Contribute Today link and designate your contribution to the Rugby Relief Fund. You can also send checks to the USRFF. Checks should be made out to the USRFF and earmarked for the Rugby Relief Fund. Mail to:

Officially Supported and Endorsed by USARugbySouth