A grassroots rugby festival born from heartbreak is set to bring teams together in a powerful tribute to a much-loved mother, while raising awareness of a devastating illness that changed her family’s life.
The Julie Owen 10’s Festival will take place at Tiverton Rugby Club on Saturday, August 22, bringing together 16 teams to compete in a one-day tournament aimed at celebrating Julie Owen’s life and legacy.
Julie was described by her family as “the heart of her family and her rugby community” — a devoted mother and constant presence on the sidelines. Following her death after being diagnosed with glioblastoma, organisers say the event has been created to honour her memory while raising awareness and funds.
The festival, organised in collaboration with The Brain Tumour Charity, will feature rugby matches, live music, food and drink, as well as charity events including an auction.
Entry for teams is set at £300, with squads of up to 15 players taking part in the 10-a-side format. The deadline for entries is Sunday, June 29.
In a statement shared by her family, they said: “This is not just a rugby tournament. This is something far bigger. This is about love, legacy, and purpose.
“This is Julie Owen’s story and the fight to make sure no other family has to go through what we did.”
They added: “Our mam was not just a rugby supporter. She was the kind of person who showed up for everyone.
“Rugby was a huge part of our lives but her impact went far beyond the pitch. Whether you played, watched, or just walked through our front door, you felt it.”
The family described how Julie and her husband travelled the country together supporting rugby, standing on the sidelines in all weather and supporting not just their son Michael, but many others.
They said: “It was never just about the game. It was about family, community, and showing up for people together.”
Julie was later diagnosed with glioblastoma after suffering headaches, memory lapses and a seizure.
The family said: “What started as headaches and small lapses in memory quickly became something far more serious.
“A seizure led to a diagnosis that we were simply not prepared for. Glioblastoma. Grade 4. Inoperable. Untreatable. Terminal.”
They said Julie chose to decline treatment in order to make the most of the time she had left, with her family caring for her at home.
They added: “We laughed, we cried, and we made every single moment count.
“Those months were the hardest of our lives, but they also showed us exactly who she was – strong, selfless, and full of love.”
The family said her death has left a lasting impact but has also given them purpose.
They said: “No family should have to face this disease the way we did.
“Glioblastoma is aggressive, relentless and devastating. Survival rates remain desperately low, with less than 10% surviving longer than five years. Research is severely underfunded and prevention is unknown.
“That has to change.”
Organisers are also seeking sponsorship support, with packages available ranging from £500 to £8,000, offering branding opportunities and event-day visibility.
Those wishing to enter a team or discuss sponsorship opportunities can contact Michael Owen on 07805 063949 or Sarah-Jayne Bray on 07791 103549. Entries can also be made via email at michaelowen511@hotmail.com.
A QR code has also been provided by organisers for donations to a GoFundMe page supporting the cause.
