At the Dallas Harlequins, rugby has always been about more than what happens between the touchlines. For decades, our club has believed that being part of the Dallas community means showing up, giving back, and using the platform of sport to create meaningful impact. From supporting adaptive athletics and women’s shelters to investing in youth rugby and leadership development, service has been a part of the identity of the Harlequins for decades.
That culture did not happen by accident. It was built over generations of players, supporters, and leaders who believed a rugby club should leave its community stronger than it found it.
Partnering with Rise Adaptive Sports
For years, the Dallas Harlequins proudly partnered with Rise Adaptive Sports to host one of the club’s most meaningful annual traditions: a holiday toy drive centered around a friendly wheelchair rugby match.
The event brought together players, families, and supporters in a celebration of competition, inclusion, and community spirit.
What began as a simple fundraiser became a yearly reminder that sports can create connection far beyond the rugby pitch.
Through toy donations and community support, the event helped ensure local children and families experienced a brighter holiday season while also highlighting the importance of adaptive athletics in North Texas.
Gala 10’s and Supporting Genesis Women’s Shelter
The Dallas Harlequins Womxn’s team has built one of the club’s most beloved traditions through its annual Gala 10’s tournament benefiting Genesis Women’s Shelter & Support.
Part rugby tournament, part community fundraiser, Gala 10’s is known for its signature twist: players compete in dresses while raising money and awareness for survivors of domestic violence.
Year after year, the tournament has brought together clubs from across the region while reinforcing an important message: just because rugby is a violent sport, doesn’t mean we tolerate violence.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Recently, members of the Dallas Harlequins attended a local event hosted by Girls Inc., joining athletes, leaders, and community advocates in supporting programs that empower young women to be strong, smart, and bold.
The event featured rugby star Ilona Maher and helped raise more than $450,000 to support the organization’s mission. While we can’t take credit for those amazing numbers, several Quins stepped up to sponsor the organization in various ways. For Harlequins players, it was an opportunity not only to represent the club and the sport, but to make an impact beyond the game.
The Legacy of Gordy Riggs
No conversation about service within the Dallas Harlequins would be complete without recognizing Gordon “Gordy” Riggs.
During his tenure with the club, Gordy helped instill the belief that a rugby club should stand for something larger than wins and losses. His leadership and example helped shape a culture in which volunteerism, mentorship, and community engagement were woven into the fabric of the organization. Now, as a fan, and Quin Legend, he still cheers us on and leads us forward from the sidelines.
Today, that legacy lives on through the club’s annual Banner Award, named in his honor — a recognition that celebrates individuals who embody the spirit of service, leadership, and commitment to the Harlequins community.
The Dallas Harlequins Foundation
The Dallas Harlequins Foundation (501(C)3) exists to strengthen and grow rugby throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth community.
The Foundation’s mission extends from grassroots development to elite competition pathways, helping players of all ages access opportunities within the sport. Through financial support, mentorship, and community partnerships, the Foundation works to expand rugby participation while building a sustainable future for the game in North Texas.
Beyond supporting players, the Foundation also encourages members of the rugby community to pursue coaching and referee certification, helping develop the leadership and infrastructure needed for the sport to thrive long-term.
1. Develop the Future of Rugby
Growing the game starts with investing in people.
2. Expand Access & Opportunity
Talent should never be limited by circumstance.
3. Build Performance, Community & Legacy
Rugby is about competition, but it’s also about community.
The Foundation invests in projects that strengthen both.
Whether introducing new athletes to rugby for the first time or helping experienced players reach the next level, the Dallas Harlequins Foundation is committed to ensuring the game continues to grow across DFW for generations to come. You can email dhqfoundation@quins.com to support!
A Club Built on Community
The Dallas Harlequins are proud of what we accomplish on the field, but even prouder of the impact we strive to make away from it. Rugby teaches accountability, resilience, teamwork, and respect — values that matter just as much in the community as they do during a match.
For us, giving back is not a side project. It is part of who we are.