United States Rugby Foundation Raises $540 from Noel Mannion Ireland Test Jersey

San Diego, CA (October 28, 2005) – The test match jersey worn by former Ireland #8 Noel Mannion in a match against the United States in 1989 raised over $500 for the USRF in a recent eBay auction. Noel played a total of 16 test matches for the Irish, including all four of Ireland’s 1989 Five Nations matches. He was also a member of Ireland’s 1991 Rugby World Cup squad.“The Noel Mannion jersey created a lot of interest,” said USRF Executive Director, Brian Vizard. “There were over 500 visitors to the eBay page and the bidding was consistent throughout the 10-day auction. It was also nice to see a Frenchman with the winning bid. It just goes to prove that rugby is a global game and that there are no boundaries.”Every cent raised from the jersey auctions has been targeted for Ball Grants or High School Start-Up kits, just two of the many ways in which the USRFF is supporting rugby in the United States.The next jersey to be auctioned by the USRF will be an autographed commemorative New Zealand All Blacks-British and Irish Lions jersey.The USRF is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization established in 1963. Although its main focus is supporting youth and high school rugby, the Foundation also provides grants to coaches and referees; establishes international student exchanges and college scholarships, has assisted the United States Collegiate All-Americans and Boys Under-19 teams, and also provides grants to Safety and Risk Management Research.For more information about the United States Rugby Foundation, visit www.usrugbyfoundation.org