The 39th St Joseph’s Rugby Festival in Suffolk delivered a weekend packed with unforgettable memories—and Curious Retreats was proud to be part of it.

Tim Cook, Director and Co-Founder of Curious Retreats, reflects on the fantastic Autumn weekend, why supporting grassroots sporting initiatives in Suffolk is so important to him, and what the festival experience meant personally.

This year, we had the honour of sponsoring the festival as the Championship Pitch Sponsor. Our branding featured prominently on pitch-side flags, post protectors, and even a video advertisement broadcast during the YouTube livestream, viewed by hundreds of thousands—if not millions—of rugby enthusiasts around the world.

We hope that anyone attending the festival or watching online asked themselves, “Who are Curious Retreats, and what do they offer?” If so, mission accomplished.

Why Curious Retreats Chose to Sponsor the Festival

Sponsoring events like the St Joseph’s Rugby Festival is about more than just visibility. Yes, we want our name out there. Yes, we hope property owners notice us. And yes, we hope prospective guests explore our portfolio.

But, as a Suffolk-based company, supporting grassroots sports in Suffolk runs deeper than marketing. As founders, Tim Ripman and I understand first-hand the role sports play in shaping young lives—on football pitches, rugby fields, cricket grounds, hockey courts, and tennis lawns. Sports teach persistence, hard work, determination, humility in defeat, and grace in victory.

Supporting Grassroots Sports in Suffolk

Sports bring communities together. Families, friends, and neighbours all share in the highs and lows. Being part of that spirit is something we at Curious Retreats take immense pride in.

The festival itself is a remarkable event. Sixteen of the UK’s elite under-18 rugby schools come together to create a weekend of high-level competition and lifelong memories. For our team and some of our property owners who joined us, it was an opportunity to fully experience this Suffolk tradition.

Events like these take 12 months of meticulous planning and showcase everything that makes Suffolk special. Supporting them is part of our commitment to giving back to the local community while championing the next generation of athletes.

Looking Ahead: 40th Anniversary and Future Sponsorships

Next year marks the 40th anniversary of the St Joseph’s Rugby Festival, and we’re already planning on being part of this fantastic event once more.

Whether it’s rugby, netball, tennis, or golf, Curious Retreats will continue supporting grassroots sports, celebrating the values we hold dear, and helping nurture the next generation of sports enthusiasts.

We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the spirit of sports in Suffolk. To discover how Curious Retreats can make your Suffolk getaway unforgettable, explore our property portfolio today.

Image credits: © St. Joseph’s College

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