Battle In Berlin Set For Tonight At Sage Park

Rugby clubs from across Connecticut will fight it out on the field on Thursday, Aug. 16, at Sage Park in Berlin for the Sixth Annual Battle in Berlin. The annual rugby tournament benefits multiple sclerosis and cystic fibrosis.

“The Hartford Wanderers have always been community-focused and have taken to the field for the past five years in support of two very worthy causes – MS and CF,” said Christopher Picard, who coordinates the match on behalf of the Hartford Wanderers. “When someone is diagnosed with multiple sclerosis or cystic fibrosis, their lives are forever changed. We are fortunate to be able to unite our passion for rugby with our desire to reach out to others living with one of these two chronic diseases.”

For many participants, the cause makes the match personal.

“There are several participants who have connections to MS and CF,” said Picard. “We know what a struggle living with one of these diseases can be. It’s our honor to go out and compete for them while also raising funds.”

The benefit will kick-off at Sage Park at 5:45 p.m. with a match featuring the Connecticut Greys rugby team playing against the New London County rugby team. At 7 p.m., the Cheshire youth rugby club takes to the field against Simsbury. To finish off the evening, the Hartford Wanderers will battle the New Haven rugby club.

Tickets are $5 and children under 10 are free. All proceeds benefit the National MS Society, Connecticut Chapter and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Tickets for the Aug. 16 match can be purchased in advance by calling Christopher J. Picard at (860) 670-0625.