Old boy steps up as Isipathana rugby secures NKAR Travels as main sponsor

When an old boy puts his hand up to back the Green Machine, it means something deeper than just a business deal. It is family looking after family. That is exactly what has happened with NKAR Travels and Tours coming on board as the main sponsor of Isipathana College rugby, led by Managing Director and proud Isipathanian, Nilmin Nanayakkara.

“I am honoured to be involved as an old boy to support the youngsters and give back what we have learned to our alma mater,” Nanayakkara said. Those words capture the spirit that has kept Isipathana rugby thriving for over six decades.

From humble beginnings to a rugby powerhouse

For those who may not know the origin story, Isipathana College, formerly known as Greenlands College, owes its rugby roots to a somewhat unlikely figure. According to records, the foundation was laid by Mrs. Geddes, an English teacher at Greenlands who was a passionate rugby fanatic. Her husband was a Trinitian, and her two sons initially attended Greenlands before moving to Trinity and representing the Lions.

Though rugby at Greenlands did not take off immediately, the seed she planted was never forgotten. In 1961, a group of rugby enthusiasts led by school headmaster H.T. de Silva revived the sport at the college. The first official schools rugby team was captained by Randy C. Keller, and from that moment, the journey to becoming one of the most feared names in Sri Lanka schools rugby had begun.

Today, Isipathana’s proud rugby heritage speaks for itself. The Greens have produced a record 84 national rugby representatives, more than any other school in the country. Many past players continue to serve the game as coaches and administrators, ensuring the knowledge and culture are passed down to every new generation that pulls on the green jersey.

A strong sponsorship lineup for the season ahead

Running a competitive schools rugby programme is not cheap, and the financial demands can be a real burden. The Isipathana Rugby Committee, under the leadership of chairman Hisham Ally, has worked tirelessly to bring together a sponsorship package that gives the team the backing it needs.

Alongside main sponsor NKAR Travels and Tours, the committee has secured Ultra Tech as the platinum sponsor. Siddhalepa, Prima Koththu Mee, G89, Fly Southern, Montrela Consultants, Gold, KFC, and Pearl Beach Paradise have all come on board as co-sponsors. It is a collective effort that reflects the wide reach and loyalty of the Isipathana family.

The season so far and the road ahead

On the field, the Green Machine has wasted no time making a statement. Led by third-year coloursman and captain Nisaja Jayaweera, with the dynamic Shaahid Zumri as his deputy, and backed by nine coloursmen in the squad, this side has the experience and firepower to compete at the very top.

The boys have started the season in commanding fashion, picking up wins against Sri Sumangala Kandy, Science College, and Dharmaraja Kandy. The early signs are promising, but the toughest tests lie ahead. S. Thomas’, Trinity, D.S. Senanayake, and St. Anthony’s are all waiting on the fixture list.

If the performances so far are anything to go by, and with this kind of support behind them from sponsors, old boys, and the ICOIC community, the Greens will leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of the coveted league title this year. The Green Machine is rolling, and the whole Isipathana family is behind them.

Nilmin Nanayakkara, Managing Director, NKAR Travels and Tours the main sponsors is seen receiving the token of appreciation from Hishan Ally, Chairman, Isipathana Rugby Committee and B.S. Rajapakse, Isipathana Vice Principal flanked by Mervyn Preena, Vice President Sports, Nisaja Jayaweera and Shaahid Zumri, Capt. and Vice Capt of Isipathana rugby team

Sandeep Holey, Director/Country Head, Ultra Tech the platinum sponsor of Isipathana rugby team is receiving the token of appreciation from Hishan Ally, Chairman, Isipathana Rugby Committee and B.S. Rajapakse, Isipathana Vice Principal. – Pix by Waruna Wanniarachchi