SPORTS FEATURE - Fijian kindness fuels Denver Rugby Movement

THE Denver Rugby Movement is more than just a rugby team it’s a family built on love, inclusion, and inspiration drawn the Fiji 7s rugby team.

Founded in 2022 by three remarkable brothers Michael Love Pendleton, Joshua Roberts, and Kevin Huck all born with developmental disabilities, the Denver Rugby Movement has grown into a specialized rugby program that welcomes all ages and abilities. With the support of their mother Cathy Pendleton, coach Paul Martin, and Erin Stitt, the team now prepares for their biggest adventure yet an international rugby tournament in Spain from June 26 – 30.

Their mother Cathy Pendleton shared their journey began with more than a ball and a field. It began with a lesson in kindness from the Fiji 7s team

“In 2023, we met the Fiji 7s at Nadi Airport.

“They were exhausted from a tournament but still took the time to sign jerseys and footballs for the boys. That moment showed our boys how far kindness can go,” Pendleton shared.

“When the boys said they wanted to play rugby, I was delighted. We started small, but it’s grown from there. The Fijian team showed them that fans matter, that love and community come first.”

The Fiji 7s didn’t just stop at autographs. They taught the boys discipline, family values, and the importance of community support. They gave the boys a tackle dummy and showed them how to practice safely. Now, every other day, the backyard becomes a training ground.

“Coach Paul and the Fiji 7s have always emphasised safety. The boys learn how to tackle properly, how to protect others on the field and they’ve taken every lesson to heart,” she added.

The team also had the rare opportunity to train alongside the Fiji 7s and even share a meal an experience that left a lasting impression.

“Their physical trainer was amazing. And they even fed us we didn’t expect that,” Cathy laughed.

“It was delicious.”

Cathy beams with pride when she talks about the boys’ behaviour.

“Wherever we go whether it’s in Fiji, the US or soon Spain people tell us how polite and well-mannered they are. That’s something the Fiji 7s taught them, always show your best behaviour. You’ll always be welcomed back.”

The boys’ respect and admiration for their Fijian heroes run deep.

“They always say, ‘Family first.’ That message from the Fiji team has stayed with them,” Cathy said.

At a fundraiser in Colorado, Michael and Josh spoke to the crowd about what rugby and the Fiji 7s means to them. Coach Paul Martin called them up as founding members. That event raised $20,000 money that is now helping send the team to Spain.

Fijian stars like Jerry Tuwai and Jasa Veremalua have gone above and beyond for the Denver boys. Jerry not only signed countless jerseys and rugby balls but even invited the boys to his home village during Christmas.

“Jerry’s kindness helped us raise funds. His jersey alone brought in so much and Jasa was the first Fijian rugby player we ever met. His love and warmth were overwhelming. I can’t speak highly enough of him and his beautiful family.”

The Denver Rugby Movement also had the honor of playing at the professional stadium at Infinity Field in Glendale, Colorado a moment they’ll never forget.

“As they walked off the field, the fans reached out to slap their hands, cheering for them,” Cathy recalled.

“They were so humble, so thankful.”

As the team prepares to travel to Spain, they carry with them not just rugby skills, but a heart full of gratitude.

“We’ve been blessed by the Fijian spirit.

“When I tell people back in the US, I say don’t just stay at the resorts. Visit the villages, meet the people. The heart of Fiji is its people, and they’ve touched ours deeply.”

For the Denver Rugby Movement, the journey ahead is more than about winning matches. It’s about spreading the love, unity, and kindness they’ve learned thanks to a team of rugby stars from a small Pacific nation with a big heart.

“We are inspired by Fiji and we’re taking that spirit with us to Spain and beyond.”