What have you done today to make you feel proud?
On Wednesday 3rd February, the big, burly rugby players from Leeds Rhinos lent their voices to a higher cause as they prepared to release a charity CD—singing Heather Small’s inspirational and triumphant hit “Proud” to aid The Sick Children’s Trust’s Big Move Appeal. The 25 strong squad were joined by 40 stirring gospel voices from the RJ Community Choir to record the CD under the direction of Leroy Johnson.
“It’s a sublime juxtaposition, big burley sporting stars alongside our community choir. It’s a great fit, and an inspirational way to raise money for a great cause. Rhinos have really surprised me with their commitment and big voices in rehearsal and we’re going to raise the roof at the recording,” explains music director Johnson.
The Sick Children’s Trust’s ‘The Big Move’ campaign, aims to raise £1.7 million to move Eckersley House from its current location at St James’s Hospital to the Leeds General Infirmary (LGI) in May 2010. To date The Sick Children’s Trust has raised over 1 million pounds to fund the move—but still need to raise the crucial £700,000 to open the new house this summer.
Rhinos Captain, Kevin Sinfield explains, “The Rhinos are really committed to our local community and we wanted to do something unique to help The Sick Children’s Trust and getting the team to sing at the top of their lungs seemed a good place to start. We have a post match sing after every win which is pretty raucous but the lads have been great in rehearsals, it’s pretty inspiring.”
“Proud, is such an emotionally charged song, the title says it all - What have done today to make you feel proud? It’s immensely satisfying to help such a worthwhile cause as a team and the Big Move Appeal really needs our help now more than ever.”
Fundraiser for the Big Move Appeal Vicki Smith said, “The Sick Children’s Trust is so grateful for the Rhinos support and we’re hoping to raise about £10,000 from the CD. It’s a great song and a great cause.”
The Charity CD was released to coincide with the Gillette World Cup Challenge on Sunday 28th February 2010 at Elland Road.
It is available now – all CD’s cost £5 and proceeds will go towards The Big Move appeal, Leeds. To order your copy please email your details to Vicki or purchase online at our shop.
For more information see the Rhinos website.
Take a look at the DVD footage below
