Testimonial: James Blottman
I’ve been a rugby player, coach, and devoted fan for over 40 years. For me, rugby is the gift that keeps on giving. One of those gifts is Father Felix Ugwuozor.
I met Father Felix in 2023 at my Catholic parish, Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Ridgewood, NJ, where he spends four months each year as part of his mission work. He leads the OneHopeChildren Foundation, an organization he founded fifteen years ago in Enugu, Nigeria. The foundation serves 450 disadvantaged children from kindergarten through high school, offering them education, structure, and hope.
Father Felix’s passion for his students and his unwavering commitment to their future inspired me to partner with him in launching a rugby program in Nigeria. Children need sports to thrive, yet the Academy had very few athletic opportunities. We both believed rugby was the perfect fit.
Rugby is uniquely suited to these young men—challenging their minds, hearts, and bodies while nurturing discipline, teamwork, and resilience. It’s the ultimate team sport, helping boys grow into men and opening doors they never imagined possible. Through the sport, these boys will meet mentors, build confidence, and gain experiences that would otherwise be out of reach.
The program is already underway, and we’re off to a strong start. We’re fortunate to have an outstanding coaching staff in Nigeria, along with the professional guidance of Coach Mike Flanagan, former Head Coach at the U.S. Naval Academy and a member of the United States Rugby Hall of Fame. Most importantly, we have over 60 boys between the ages of 14 and 18 participating in our first rugby camp—and our first match is just around the corner.
Our challenge now is sustainability. To keep this momentum going, we need funding. Every contribution helps us provide equipment, coaching, travel, and the support these boys need to thrive. Whatever anyone contributes will go 100% into the program and is charitable donation through our 501c. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
James Blottman
