- Rugby League Cares

Rugby League Cares
NEWSLETTER
Hunslet Warriors
secure funding grant
RL Cares Takes 200
Dancers to Wembley!
National Heritage Tour
Kicks Off in Hull
Matt King OBE
Wins Award
WELCOME
On behalf of myself and us all here at Rugby League Cares,
I would like to personally thank you for taking the time to read
our newsletter, and f inding out exactly what we are about.
2013 - our achievements
After a magnificent first year of true
operation, we at Rugby League Cares found
ourselves in a very fortunate position, having
launched the charity at the back end of 2012
we worked hard to formulate a concise plan
which coincided with the Rugby League
World Cup of 2013.
Thanks to the hard work and efforts from all
associated with our growing organisation,
we at Rugby League Cares were able to
deliver our initial objectives and round-off
2013 successfully.
We began with a real focused theme of
heritage running through our first calendar
year. This manifested itself into a variety of
projects which our heritage team embarked
upon enthusiastically.
In late 2013 we were fortunate enough to be
a part of a fantastic celebration dinner. On
show were some never before seen pieces
of history and memorabilia from the archives,
culminating in the recent success of the
funding, and generally boosting the heritage
section of Rugby League Cares.
Because of this added boost, we were able
to showcase memorabilia such as, the Trevor
Foster Collection, along with other pieces of
Rugby League history. By showcasing our
game’s treasures we believe this will assist
Rugby League’s journey to the pinnacle of
British and World sport into the 21st Century
and beyond.
Nevertheless, we at Rugby League Cares
know we have to build on the success of
our previous year, in order to remain a front
runner in the development of our already
thriving game. We believe, with the correct
application and organisation, we can avoid
letting our achievements and the progress
which Rugby League makes, collect dust
which is why we have big plans for this year.
Terry Flanagan, Rugby League
Cares Chairman
During his Rugby League playing
career Terry Flanagan played for
Saddleworth Rangers ARLFC and
Oldham as well as at representative
level for Great Britain and Lancashire.
Terry won caps for Great Britain while
at Oldham in 1983 against France
and in 1984 against New Zealand and
Papua New Guinea.
Flanagan played at Hooker in
Oldham’s 6-27 defeat to Wigan in
the 1986-87 Lancashire Cup Final at
Knowsley Road on 19 October.
Terry is also an Oldham Hall Of Fame
Inductee.
2014 - work in progress
Our game seems to have recently
notched up a gear commercially, and we
know we must follow suit. After 2013 we
managed to bring in approximately half
a million pounds into our organisation
and the sport, and we want this figure to
have increased come the end of 2014.
This is why we have increased our initial
budgets and targets, in order to allow our
organisation to expand at a rate which
can lead to a change in the Rugby
League world.
One thing in particular that we here at
Rugby League Cares pride ourselves on,
is the fantastic relationship that we have
with our Professional Clubs Foundations.
By having a mutual rapport with our
Professional Clubs, this allows us as an
organisation to progress even further.
By joining forces with managers and
players alike, this helps to promote
our endeavours and in turn aids the
progression of our game once more,
and because of this we aim to prolong
this positive relationship for as long
as possible.
fronts, were by we have moved every
initiative on, and built on its already
established step. We know exactly
how important it is to create future
opportunities, which is why we are now
working not only towards the end of this
calendar year, but also towards 2015.
We have also built strong bonds with
organisations such as, State of Mind and
League Thirteen who, we are extremely
excited to announce, we have specific
plans to work with again over the course
of this calendar year along with a number
of other exciting prospects.
I would like to thank you again for
taking the time to find out what we here at
Rugby League Cares are really about, and
what we feel needs to be done to help
rugby league’s progression. I sincerely
hope you enjoy what will follow in this
edition of our Rugby League
Cares Newsletter.
On a whole, we at Rugby League Cares
aim to improve the organisation on all
Thank you,
Terry.
Steve Prescott’s legacy lives on:
On the 9th November last year, as
England were about to face Fiji in
Rugby League World Cup 2013, the
news that Steve Prescott MBE had
passed away, following his seven year
battle against Cancer, stunned the
Rugby League community.
The 25.000 supporters who were in
attendance at the KC Stadium were
asked to uphold a minutes silence
preceding the game in honour of the
former Hull FC and St Helens stars
life. However, in a fitting tribute, the
minutes silence spontaneously erupted
into applause as the capacity crowd
acknowledged the inspirational efforts of
a truly remarkable man.
the General Manager of the Steve Prescott
Foundation, has been overwhelmed by
the response and is planning a busy year
ahead for the charity.
“Since Steve’s passing the reaction has
been incredible and the foundation has
been inundated with people wanting
to do something to raise funds and
awareness in his memory. Schools,
supporters, people in and outside the
rugby league community are all doing
their bit to keep Steve’s legacy alive.
There’s events going on all over the place
and that is a testament to the great man.
The Steve Prescott Foundation has risen
over £500,000 since its inception in
2007 with the funds being split between
The Christie Cancer Hospital and the
Try Assist Benevolent Fund. Prescott,
along with many volunteers, took part
in a number of gruelling, physically
demanding challenges to help raise funds
and awareness for the causes close to
his heart. Prescott’s wish was for the
legacy that he had created to live on after
his passing and the immense reaction by
the public has symbolised the measure of
how highly regarded he was as a player,
and as a person.
The RFL have paid a fitting tribute to
Steve and his family by naming the
most prestigious individual honour in
Rugby League, the Man of Steel award,
after him. From October this year, the
player who makes the biggest impact
on the First Utility Super League season
will receive the Steve Prescott Man
of Steel Award. Super League Chief
Operating Officer Ralph Rimmer said: “It
is absolutely right that the player whose
on-field heroics capture the imagination
of his peers throughout a First Utility
Super League season is presented with
an award named in recognition of one of
the sport’s true heroes.
“Although he never won the award
himself, Steve Prescott really was a man
of steel; a truly extraordinary individual
who was universally respected by all who
knew him and those who watched or read
about his exploits Martin Blondel, who is
“Then in May, six people will take part
in one of the toughest challenges the
SPF have ever attempted. Three of our
Ambassadors in Lee Briers, Tommy
Martyn and Mark Halsey will be joined
by Mike Rust, Adrian Cunliffe and Mike
Denning. Together they will attempt to
walk 900 miles from Lands End to John
O’ Groats in 12 days. We’re hoping
people will come out and join these guys
on different stages and take part in some
of the walk.
“The following month, in June, we’re
hoping to get 50 people to take part
in the Engage Mutual SPF Tour De
Yorkshire. It’s a cycle ride that will test
the best in the world a month later and it
will see our participants ride 224 miles in
two days.
“And if that wasn’t enough, in August,
we are in the early stages of planning for
members of the SPF and the public to
take part in climbing Mount Kilimanjaro
in just five days. These fund-raisers have
been inspired by Steve’s motto which is
‘a challenge is not a challenge unless
it’s challenging’
“There have been many tributes paid
to Steve since his passing such as
the naming of the bridge, which links
Langtree Park to St Helens city centre,
after him. St Helens and Hull FC will also
contest for the inaugural Steve Prescott
Cup. The winner will be the team who
accumulates the highest aggregate score
after clubs’ two regular-season games.
And of course, the Steve Prescott Man of
Steel award.
“In order to ensure the ongoing success
of the Steve Prescott Foundation it was
decided that 16 famous faces from
around the world of sport would carry
Steve’s name forward as Ambassadors.
Each of our Ambassadors will take part in
some of the challenges we have planned
for this year as well as attending various
other fundraising functions. The major
events that we are planning for this year
will include the GPW St Helens 10k run
in March and it has been increased from
1500 runners to 1800.”
“There’s a lot going on and on behalf of
the SPF and Steve’s family, I’d like to
thank each and every person who has
supported and continues to support us.
All of this just reiterates how much Steve
was thought of and it’s safe to say his
legacy is very much alive.”
For more information about the work that
the Steve Prescott Foundation does and
how to get involved visit:
http://www.steveprescottfoundation.
co.uk/Home.aspx
Dear members
My name is
Katie Irwin,
I was hired in
July to be the
membership
manager of
Rugby League
Cares.
As our membership has grown over the
past two years, Rugby League Cares
realised that they needed another pair of
hands on board to ensure that being a
member is enjoyable. As you know, your
membership fee already goes to helping
great causes, but we want to care for
our members too!
We therefore aim to create opportunities
for you to get more involved; working
alongside past players, current players
and fellow fans.
I am also going to make sure you are
kept up to date with where your money is
going. Rugby League Cares has funded
some amazing projects this year (too
many to cover in our newsletter) and we
have big plans for 2015.
You’ll be please to know that I’ve spent
the last 3 months cleaning up our
database and getting things in order. I
am now pleased to announce that things
are moving forward - you’ll be hearing
from me a lot more, with news of events,
opportunities and stories of our work.
If you have any questions about
membership, what we do, or ideas
on how you might help; please do not
hesitate to contact me on 07540 636515
or [email protected]
I hope to see you at one of our
events soon!
Many thanks
Katie Irwin
GRANTS
Grants programme
Rugby League Cares grants
programme aims to provide a small
donation to help support a variety of
grassroots Rugby League projects.
Our aim is to encourage more people to
play and benefit from Rugby League.
With funds from our members and
fundraising efforts we’re delighted to share
details of the projects we’ve supported
in 2014. In future edition we will be
returning to our funded projects to see the
difference our support has made.
Flintshire Falcons Rugby League Club The purchase of 2 sets of goal posts at 2
High Schools in Flintshire
Hampshire Youth League Association
- a newly formed league project based
in Southampton and open to new and
existing teams from the surrounding areas
bordering and including Hampshire. It is
hoped that the initial project will see up to
eight u12’s teams playing a modified small
sided version of the game
Holderness YRLCE Time to Try project
- After School sessions at two nearest
secondary schools, and develop a
new Team (U16) training sessions: At
Holderness Vikings YRLC ground
Hull FC Wheelchair Rugby League team
- assist with hiring a long wheel based
van to transport wheelchairs and rugby
equipment to training sessions and match
days for 1 year.
Hunslet Hawks - To provide additional
security to the multi purpose room
enabling greater usage by community
groups increasing participation particularly
for Beeston Broncos ARLFC and Hunslet
Girls ARLFC
Hunslet Warriors - secure the club with
window and door shutters after a number
of burglaries and vandal incidents.
London Skolars RLFC - Formation of a
women’s rugby league team to compete
in the proposed London Amateur League
women’s competition
Northern Ireland RL - to increase club/
player participation in Northern Ireland
have these players, also to go into
secondary schools U18’s and form a
schools league in the North of Ireland.
Oldham RL Youth and Junior Finals
– support for the event including
promotional material and presence of
RLCares at the event
Peterlee Pumas ARLFC - Recruiting
through after school clubs in 3 local
comprehensive schools, then at the clubs
playing address, to develop a new team at
under 12 to fill gaps in the Clubs Playing
plan and train up two new coaches for
each team from parent and club
volunteer pool.
Rochdale Hornets - to provide a high
quality rugby league playing experiences
and increase participation at a ladies and
girls club. It is also hoped that this will
attract more players to the squad and
creation of a new girls section, which is
based in one of the most deprived areas
in the UK.
Astley Community High School,
Northumberland - To help fund the
incoming tour of Merrimac State High
School on their Rugby League visit from
Australia. To provide pupils and players
of rugby league within the Seaton Valley
area, an opportunity to play against a
school from another country.
St Mary’s University Rugby League Club,
Teddington, Middlesex - The development
of St Marys University Rugby League
Club, to increase participation within both
the Student Rugby League club and the
wider community during the 2014/2015
academic year, within the London borough
of Richmond upon Thames.
A special thanks to everyone who has
supported Rugby League Cares, we’re
sure you’d like to join us in wishing all of
our funded projects the very best with
their work!
Hunslet Warriors awarded grant
Hunslet Warriors
Rugby League Cares Grants
Programme is responsible for the
promotion, administration and
awarding of small scale grants
(normally to a maximum of £10,000)
to support the development of
Rugby League.
Laurie Baker, Chairman of Hunslet
Warriors story is an example of how a
small scale grant made a difference to
their club.
On 9th January this year Hunslet Warrior’s
Club house was broken into and money
and spirits were stolen. The incident
happened at about 3am when a brick
was thrown through the patio doors. A
small amount of cash was taken, but
damage ran to more than £1,000 after
the club’s juke box was attacked and the
safe was removed.
It’s disappointing - and it makes you ask
if it’s worth it carrying on - but when you
have people around you and a good team
as well, you just have to keep going and
not let these things get to you. It’s the
damage and the vandalism which are
worse than what they’ve actually stolen.
It was agreed by the Committee that
security shutters were required if we were
to deter future burglaries.
To try and find monies to cover extra
security would have been virtually
impossible. The club is run entirely by
volunteers and is totally self funded.
Players have to pay subs to cover the cost
of kit wash etc., and we look to sponsors,
gate monies, and various fundraising
activities to cover running costs.
The Club House is in quite an isolated
location and had been broken into prior to
this incident.
The reason we applied to RL Cares was
entirely down to YEP reporter Peter Smith.
I deal with him on a weekly basis sending
in match reports etc., and it was whilst
discussing the break in with him that he
suggested I apply to RL Cares.
What you find when something like this
happens is that people really pull together.
The number of phone calls and messages
we had from people in the hours after
it happened was really touching. People
have been asking what they can do
to help.
Whilst I had seen the colourful Rugby
League Cares logo on numerous
correspondence and social media sites, I
had never fully looked into the work that
they do. I found the contact details on
their website, spoke to General Manager
Chris Rostron and explained our position.
He was very helpful and talked me through
how to apply for a grant towards the work
required. Four weeks after sending the
necessary quotes and paperwork in, we
received a grant of £2,000.
The generous grant we received from RL
Cares enabled us to have security shutters
installed which now gives everyone
connected with the club greater peace of
mind when we lock up on an evening.
From the Committee, Players and
Supporters at Hunslet Warriors, a big
thank you to Rugby League Cares for
all their help.
Grants application
If you’re working on a Rugby League project that you think would benefit from receiving one of our small scale awards then
let us know. Visit rugbyleaguecares.org to download an application form.
GRANTS
Community Rafffle - Congratulations
to the Early Bird Draw Winners
The Community Game Raffle is back for its seventh
year in 2014 providing clubs and schools with an
exciting fundraising opportunity.
When you buy a raffle ticket (£1 each) 70p goes to the
community club you bought it from and 30p goes to RLCares.
The Early Bird draw awards prizes to those clubs who return
their tickets early.
Congratulations to all three winners and a big thank you to all
those who returned their tickets in time for the early bird draw.
For those who have already purchased tickets, the main draw
will take place at the end of November, following the closing
deadline for ticket return on 5th November. Brighouse are
currently leading with the highest ticket sales.
•First prize of the Early Bird Draw went to Leyland Warriors
A host of fantastic prizes are again on offer with a trip for two
to Australia to watch the 2015 NRL Grand Final in Sydney and
£500 spending money topping the bill.
•Second prize was awarded to
East Leeds
For your chance to win, contact either RLCares to buy tickets
directly from them, or your local community club.
• Third prize went to Stanningley.
For further information on how to sell raffle tickets for your
community club, please contact [email protected]
Leyland Warriors:
Leyland Warriors were founded in 1993 and are based in South Ribble,
Central Lancashire. Having always generally run around 5 junior rugby
league teams, we have flourished during recent years and now run
almost every youth and junior age group, from our 4 and 5 year old
Braves, to our U18s. Our senior section has Men’s, Women’s, Masters
and Wheelchair teams, meaning that we provide sporting opportunities
for male and female players, aged 4-70, both disabled and nondisabled.
This year we have signed a 30 year lease on our 13 acre site, Moss
Side Playing Fields, and are focussing now on developing the site to
meet the future needs of our club and the local community. For more
information visit leylandwarriors.co.uk or follow us on Twitter - @lwrlc
East Leeds:
East Leeds Masters team has just returned from a tour of Australia.
They are big supporters of RLCares and sported our gear whilst out
there. Peter Longbottom even organised a shirt swap for RLCares, with
our Australian Cousins, Men of League.
Stanningley:
Stanningley was formed in 1889 and has been a breeding ground
for players to go on to play at the highest level. In the early 1900s,
the “Farsley Flyer” Fred Farrar signed first for Bramley (for £40!)
then moved on to Hunslet where he starred in the side that won all
four trophies. Farrar went on the very first tour of Australia and New
Zealand and on his return still continued to train and occasionally play
for Stanningley. Ever since then the professional clubs have beaten a
track to Stanningley to sign players of outstanding ability. Stanningley
“old boys” who are currently gracing the Super League are Jamie
Peacock, Jamie Jones Buchanan, Ashley Gibson, Ryan Atkins, Gareth
Carvell, and Michael McIlorum to name just a few.
Social Responsibility:
If you suspect that someone at your club has a gambling problem please refrain from selling them raffle tickets in large quantities.
Help and advice is available from several sources, including www.gambleaware.co.uk for organisations seeking advice.
Tickets are not for sale to, or by, anyone under 16 years of age.
Licensed by the Gambling Commission www.gamblingcommission.gov.uk
Community rafffle volunteering opportunity
RLCares needs volunteers to help fold the raffle tickets to enable a fair draw. We have booked out the board room at Red Hall, Leeds,
for Friday 14th and Monday 17th November. Some pro-players will be on hand to help out too. Even if you can just spare an hour,
come down, have a cup of tea, a piece of cake and fold a few dozen tickets with us.
For further information, please contact Katie Irwin: [email protected] 07540 636515
WELFARE
Join the momentum
After a fantastic Summer effort, Rugby League Cares
Dance programme ‘Join the Momentum’ got off to a
spirited start with 7 Summer camps taking place over the
school holidays to culminate in an inspiring performance
at half-time of the Challenge Cup Final.
As a result of Arts Council funding, the programme was available
to of all the participants, completely free of charge.
RLCares provided expert tuition and coaching from Phoenix
Dance Theatre who worked with the young people for a total of
25 hours to prepare for the Wembley stadium performance which
was seen by over 70,000 fans.
The Dance spectacular was a great way to kick-off the 2 year
programme which in 2014 will see a CPD programme introduced
for both current and aspiring Dance leaders within our Rugby
League Foundations.
Sarah Elston - Project Manager said of the programme; ‘Over
the next 2 years I am excited to develop our relationship with the
countries leading Dance companies and bring out the best in
our young people. We also want to encourage and support those
foundations that do not currently have a dance programme in
place, and allow them to access the performance opportunities
that we have available to encourage participation within
their programmes’
Past players association
Over the years, Rugby League has seen some incredible talents come and go, yet many of these former players find
themselves disconnected from the sport during their retirement.
‘Rugby League Cares - Reunions’ is a
“Initially, it’s what all players want
With nearly every Super League club
part of the charity that aims to help these
eventually. They want to relive the glory
supporting their Past Players Association,
former stars reengage with their former
days and be with their friends whom
having players associations themselves,
clubs, teammates and the sport. Rugby
they have enjoyed great success and
Rostron believes eventually all, either
League Cares General Manager, Chris
camaraderie with in the past.
current stars or retired players, can get
Rostron, tells us how this work started.
Another vitally important feature of
involved with the charity.
“Right from the very earliest discussions
this work is the support Rugby League
The Manager of the PPA has a clear idea
about the formation of Rugby League
Cares will provide if a former player
of what needs to be done to help all
Cares, trustees were dedicated to helping
falls on hard times, or is down on their
former players find their way back to their
former players. They’d seen the great
luck. Players, just like any other part of
former clubs, and feel that recently there
work taking place in Australia with the
society, sometimes need help, Rugby
has been a revival in the amount of players
Men of League Foundation and felt that
League Cares will support them during
who want to get back into Rugby League.
the same support was lacking for former
these difficult times. Our plan is to work
players here”.
alongside their past player association to
“They recognised that there is lots of good
work happening for former players through
past player associations, but that it wasn’t
always joined up. This means that best
practice isn’t being shared across the
game, so the experience for some former
players isn’t as good as others. Ultimately
this has led to some players drifting away
from the sport, losing touch with people
who they shared lots of great memories
and experiences. We felt that something
should be done to make things better for
everyone, not just a few”.
A professional career in Rugby League,
however illustrious, can stretch up to a
mere 15 years leaving players unsure what
ensure they get the help they need, it’s
easy to always think in terms of money
making the difference and that will be
connect with players associations are one
of the sport’s former stars, Colin Maskill.
Colin commented on how he’s been
helping the charity.
important, but when times are hard it’s the
help you receive from friends and family
that turns things around.
“My role with Rugby League Cares is to
keep the associations informed of how
we can help and to create a central
“That’s why RLCares
Reunions is important,
it will bring everyone
together, so that if
something bad does
happen the Rugby
League family can
step in and help.”
to do once they face retirement. Many
go into coaching or stay linked with their
One of those helping Rugby League Cares
database of past players associations,
so that we can keep everyone informed
of everything that is going on in the sport
for former players.
Its early days and naturally there are lots
of questions about what we are doing and
why. The response has been positive once
people understand what it’s all about they
are generally pleased that someone it’s
taking up the role within the sport, this is
their sport and they about helping it grow
We feel we can make a real difference
and taking care of those that need help.”
to former players in three ways, we will
For more info, or to volunteer to support
celebrate their achievements and raise
the work of Rugby League Cares in this
the profile of their great service to Rugby
area please contact Chris Rostron on
Rostron feels these former players are
League, reconnect them to the sport
[email protected] or telephone
crying out for the opportunity to re-live
and be there when they most need a
08444 777 113.
their ‘glory days’ as a professional player.
helping hand!”
clubs as either a scout or a representative,
others develop careers away from
Rugby League.
WELFARE
Sport supports health and wellbeing
Local sports clubs are at the heart
of the community, putting them in
the perfect position to reach local
groups and encourage healthy living.
Michael McCourt, trustee of Rugby
League Cares (RLC), Chief Executive
of Pennine Care NHS Foundation
Trust and lifelong Rugby League fan,
explains the important role sport
can play in promoting health
and wellbeing.
“As we all know, Rugby League clubs and
supporters are a dedicated community and
are known for being active in their home
towns. With a voice that is heard in the
local area, clubs are perfectly placed to
be ambassadors for healthy living and to
promote the importance of good physical
and mental health.
“That is why I take my role as a trustee
of RLC very seriously. It is clear to
me from my work with the RLC that if
more organisations like the NHS and
local councils work with the Rugby
League family and partners, there is the
opportunity to make a massive difference
and transform health promotion among
club communities.
“Take Super League Club Salford Red
Devils as an example. Its charitable
foundation has embarked on many
wellbeing-related initiatives such as ‘Tackle
Smoking’ and ‘Tackle Cancer’. It is also
involved in the wider Super League
scheme, ‘State of Mind’. This is a mental
health and wellbeing initiative created
to provide information, tackle stigma
and signpost support for Rugby League
players and fans, targeting, in particular,
vulnerable groups of males that are often
hard to reach.
“That’s what is key - Rugby League is
uniquely placed to bring local families
and often, hard to reach groups, closer
to important information about positive
health choices. In recognition of this, RLC,
along with Pennine Care and Salford Red
Devils, is working on an ambitious initiative
to transform health promotion. We’re
hopeful that, by working closely together
with private partners, providers of heath,
council or charitable services, we’ll be able
to really ramp up activity at Rugby League
games and make a huge difference in our
local communities.”
Pennine Care provides community
and mental health services in parts of
Greater Manchester.
www.penninecare.nhs.uk
or for more information
@PennineCareNHS
If you provide health promotion
services, commission or provide
NHS, council or charitable services,
or are part of a Rugby League club
or club foundation programme, we
want to hear from you so that we
can bring partners together and
make a change.
If you’re interested in being involved,
please contact Rugby League Cares,
at [email protected] and watch
this space for details of our first
partnership event in summer 2014.
Saturday afternoon fever
Wondering who all those young
dancers were at Wembley?
BRIONY DUANE was among
them and explains…
In the lead-up to this year’s Tetley’s
Challenge Cup final, Rugby League
Cares secured a grant from the Arts
Council to help continue the successful
dance programmes created for the
2013 World Cup.
The two-year project aims to give
more young people the opportunity
to perform on matchdays and help to
establish dance academies through
club foundations, in partnership with
professional dance organisations.
Around 280 children from foundations
at Hull Kingston Rovers, Leigh, Wigan,
Featherstone, St Helens and Warrington
took to the pitch to perform at Wembley.
Forty-20 caught up with one of them,
who revelled in the occasion.
After almost a five-hour coach journey
from Warrington, fuelled by caffeine and
the vital four ‘s’s - ‘sleeping, snoring,
snacking and singing, we arrived at our
stage, the national stadium.
Any artist or performer will tell you that
performing at Wembley a career highlight.
There we were, arriving alongside
children as young as ten, hours away
from performing in front of 79,000 Rugby
League fans.
It wasn’t long before nerves began to
kick in. Whispers of “I don’t think I can do
this”, “I feel sick” and “I’ve forgotten the
choreography” circled among us.
What we were though, irrespective,
was brilliantly prepared after a week
of intensive rehearsals with Phoenix
Dance Theatre.
During our four full days with them,
we were taught a 20 minute warm-up
routine that we did every morning to help
increase our stamina, ready to learn and
perform the nine-minute piece inspired
by the sport which we would perform at
half-time.
There was also a full day of rehearsals
with all the other foundations from across
the country who were also part of the
performance. They took place outside, so
obviously, it rained - a lot. Thanks, Britain.
Although a week of getting up early in
the summer holidays for physical activity
and getting soaked seemed torturous at
the time, as the hour drew nearer, I was
extremely thankful for those incredibly
exhausting days. Once at Wembley, in
the run-up to our performance, we spent
a few hours with the other foundations
and Phoenix to refine movements and
ensure that everybody was clear about
what they would be doing.
We stood in an empty stadium, which
was one of the most surreal and eerie
moments I’ve ever experienced. The tiers
seemed to continue growing upwards
and made me feel two inches tall.
Article provided by Forty-20 magazine
concrete corridors and nowhere near as
glamorous as you’d expect.
Our belongings had been put into
the holding room and the groups got
together for one final team talk
with Phoenix.
Excited giggles and shrieks bounced
off each wall as we listened and then
divided, making our way to pre-set
positions behind the shutters at the
tunnels. Twenty minutes until show time.
The corridor was alive with stretching,
practice, stunts and excited chitchat;
it was impossible to remain calm. And
then, five minutes before half-time, the
shutters began to rise. Chanting and
cheering by the fans produced a wall of
noise and our own “good luck!” and “let’s
go!” shouts were barely audible.
The klaxon sounded and the music we
had become all too familiar with began
to play. It was time. As all 250 dancers
entered from different corners of the
pitch, the reality of what was happening
sank in.
We broke for lunch at 1.30pm and,
back outside, I watched as swarms
of rugby fans filtered out of coaches,
up the steps and disappeared through
doorways and turnstiles, imagining the
same happening around the stadium, the
realisation dawning that they would soon
be watching us.
The empty seats we had stood before
just hours earlier were now occupied by
real people who had spent real money to
be there, and were being entertained by
us. We performed a routine
we all knew inside out,
taking in every moment.
When we finished, I
heard a cheer so loud it
gave me shivers.
By the time we had changed into our
costumes, adrenaline had already taken
over, so much so that it was hard to
tell that I’d been awake since the very
early hours. We formed a single file and
marched into the stadium through the
artists’ entrance. When you consider
some of the famous names who have
sold out the venue, it was a stark run of
The atmosphere was
incredible and I
feel so lucky
to have been
a part of the project
with Phoenix Dance Theatre.
What an opportunity - the
memories will stay with
me forever.
WELFARE
Hull FC’s 16-19 year-old
education programme:
Part of RL Cares’ Welfare scheme is
to work alongside clubs in developing
community based projects.
A new initiative launched last year was
an education programme aimed at 16-18
year-olds who are not in employment,
education or training (known as NEETS)
of any kind. By using the Rugby League
clubs’ brand, it has attracted many young
people to take part in the programme who
need a helping hand to get back on the
right track.
Those that complete the course will
receive a BTEC National Extended
Diploma (Level 3) in Sports Coaching and
Development. The students will also have
access to work experience opportunities
which could lead to future employment.
Rachel Gay is the Foundation Manger at
Hull FC and her role is to oversee projects
like this one run by the club.
“The funding we’ve received has enabled
us to make a real difference to young
people’s lives in our community through
the deliverance of programmes like this
one. There’s a varying range of students
and their levels of ability. A lot of them
have been referred from youth hostels and
have been disengaged from education for
a while. We start slowly to get them up to
speed with the level one and two, then by
the time they’re up to level three there’s a
massive change in them.
“A perfect example of the success of this
course is a young man called Jordan. He
came to us from a difficult background
and after excelling on his initial
assessment in maths, we have been
able to get him work experience in the
accounts department at Hull FC two days
a week. Had he not joined this course,
that opportunity would never have come
along and it could lead to a permanent job
further down the line.” Jordan Hickson,
who is 18, and is in the final year of the
course said: “I wasn’t really doing much
with myself and I was in a bit of a slump.
Then I found out about this course at a
youth-club project meeting from one of
Hull FC’s coaches. It’s changed my life,
I’m ready for the next step after this which
will be to use this qualification and go
onto University to gain a degree.
Hull FC is one of the clubs who are
currently involved in the scheme and the
project is run from the clubs’ state-of-theart Youth Performance and Community
Centre, where students have access to all
the facilities.
Anthony Thackeray, a former Hull FC and
current Dewsbury player, is one of the
tutors who deliver the course. He said:
“The kids we get here have not come
from the best educational backgrounds.
However, through the power of sport we
have been able to change their attitudes
towards learning and building a better
future for themselves.
“We cover all aspects of sport through
theory and practical assignments. From
coaching to philosophy, the course covers
an assortment of different modules and
the students will get a great qualification
at the end of it.
“The other rewarding factor is that these
kids are learning important life skills
and values while being here. From their
appearance, to the way they respect
others, to see the change as they go
through the levels is unbelievable.”
Rachel Gay with some of the students on the programme
BRITISH LIONS’ REUNION
Once again the time has come to celebrate
our great British Lions with a luncheon.
The Benevolent Fund will be hosting
The British Lions’ Reunion at the Cedar
Court Hotel Bradford on Sunday 25th
January and you are all welcome!
Tickets cost only £30
To book or inquire:
Please contact Lyndsey Spencer
[email protected]
0113 237 5512
HERITAGE
The safeguarding of Mike Stephenson’s
museum collection
present and future of Rugby League is
second to none. It was shortly after he
retired from playing that Stevo had the
idea of a creating the first ever Rugby
League museum.
Mike with Pete Stephenson
Through the funding of the Heritage
Lottery Fund, RL Cares has secured
the safeguarding of Mike Stephenson’s
Rugby League museum collection that
celebrates the diverse and rich history
of the sport.
The collection was originally on display at
the George Hotel in Huddersfield, where
Rugby League was born on August 29,
1895. However, due to the hotels closure
last year, the collections future was
uncertain until now.
With funding from the Heritage Lottery
Fund the collection will go on tour to at
least ten different locations around the
country this year. The process has also
been assisted by additional funding from
the University of Huddersfield, who have
contributed towards the position of a
Heritage Manager to oversee the collection
in the first year.
It is then hoped with the collection secure,
a new permanent home will be found.
Mike Stephenson is best known for his
punditry on Sky Sports’ coverage of the
Super League. Previous to his years as
a leading broadcaster, Stevo can boast
a playing career that has seen him lead
his hometown club of Dewsbury to the
Championship in 1972/73 and he was a
member of the victorious Great Britain
World Cup winning side that same year.
After finishing his illustrious playing
career with the Penrith Panthers, ‘Down
Under’, Stevo settled in Australia to live.
His passion and enthusiasm for the past,
He explains: “Since I was 15 years old,
I have accumulated a vast amount of
Rugby League memorabilia. At first, it
started when I would take my collection
around the Leagues clubs and shopping
malls in Australia to showcase my
exhibition. Up until that point, remarkably,
there had never been anything like this
and there was huge appetite for a display
of this kind.
“The exhibition grew and grew to the
point when in 1987, with the help of
sponsorship, I was able to split a train
and have five carriages dedicated to
my collection. For 22 weeks in the first
year, and 25 weeks in the second year,
we toured the train around New South
Wales taking the museum to many, many
different towns, where people would flock
to see it free of charge. It was a wonderful
exhibition and something I’m extremely
proud of.
“It then got to the stage when I thought
there should be a museum dedicated
to Rugby League in England. I’d always
dreamed of one day taking my collection
back home and having it on display at the
George Hotel.
“I was so passionate about having the
museum there I arranged a detailed
presentation that took me days to put
together to show the hotels manager
Umesh Umutt. I told him about what I
wanted to do and before I had a chance
to open my laptop he had agreed and I’ll
be internally grateful to Mr Umutt.
Six months later the museum was
appropriately opened by three legends
of the game in Neil Fox, Billy Boston and
Mick Sullivan.
“Through a lot of hard work, with the help
of my sponsors, particularly Gillette, and
many volunteers, I was able to make my
dream become a reality and for nine years
my collection had been on display where
the game I love began, the George Hotel.
“To name but a few, volunteers like Sam
Morton, Keith Burhouse and Simon
Foster were completely dedicated to the
running of the museum. Again, I wanted
it to be totally free of charge because this
has never been about making money,
showcasing our sports history to the
public matters much more to me.
“To see kids come in and be lifted up by
their Grandparents to view a picture from
1948 and say “is that you Grandfather?”
is priceless and rewarding enough.
The game’s been good to me and I
wanted to be good to the game and
this was the best way that I could give
something back.
“When the George Hotel sadly went into
decline last year, I had no option but
to take everything out and place into
storage. I was getting plenty of interest
from people here in England, Australia and
France about buying certain collectors
pieces, but I turned them all down
because I wanted to find a solution and
keep the collection here in Huddersfield,
where it belongs. I see the museum as
my legacy, and I hold it in a higher regard
than anything else I’ve achieved during
my Rugby League career.
“Thanks to Stephen Ball, Tony Collins
and Chris Rostron from RL Cares they
acquired the funding to ensure the
safeguarding of my collection and its
future. I have the peace of mind that my
collection will be in safe hands long after
I’m gone.
“I have a lot of people to thank for their
support of this project over many, many
years. With their help we have managed
to ensure the history of our sport can
be celebrated and used as a focal point
to inspire future generations. We should
never forget our sports history because
it’s the foundations of the greatest game
of all… Rugby League.”
Look out for further details and
announcements regarding this project
soon at www.rugbyleaguecares.org
Rugby League Cares Heritage
on Tour Hits the Road
Some of the items on display as part of the heritage tour - Image copyright Gavin Slater
Rugby League Cares recently won
grant funding from the Heritage
Lottery Fund to save the Rugby
League Heritage Centre collection
that was previously housed at
the George Hotel in Huddersfield.
Working in collaboration with the
University of Huddersfield and
Kirklees Council, the grant has
ensured that Rugby League Cares
has secured the collection for the
benefit of the sport and the
wider public.
Using items from the collection and
from the existing Rugby Football League
Archive, Victoria Dawson, Rugby League
Cares’ Heritage Manager, and Professor
Tony Collins, a trustee of the charity, have
curated a touring exhibition that will tour
the country from October.
As well as historic memorabilia, including
a player’s shirt from the first-ever rugby
league test match and the ball from the
famous 1954 Challenge Cup final replay,
the exhibition tells the story of the game’s
split from rugby union, the first World Cup,
the banning of league in World War Two
France and much, much more.
Victoria said: “This exhibition is different
from other exhibitions that have gone
before it because this tells not just the story
of players and things that have happened
on the pitch. As important as that is, rugby
league is about more than just the product
on the field. Rugby league’s history is the
history of the people and this exhibition
draws together the stories from the social
and cultural history of the sport and
incorporates brand new research, so even
the most ardent rugby league fan will learn
something new. The fantastic thing about a
touring exhibition is that it means more of
the rugby league family get to share in the
history of our beloved sport.”
The first venue to welcome the exhibition
is Hull History Centre, where it will remain
until October 23rd. The official opening
saw 110 people from across the city
celebrate the visit, including the leader of
Hull City Council, Cllr Steve Brady, plus
representatives from the University of Hull,
various arts and cultural organisations, plus
Hull and District Amateur Rugby League
Council and both professional clubs. Hull
Image copyright David Morris
was chosen to host the exhibition during
Black History Month because it presented
an opportunity to celebrate the city’s
pioneers, Roy Francis and Clive Sullivan in
the home of abolitionist campaigner and
MP, William Wilberforce. On Saturday 18th
October, a talk on Roy Francis will take
place, followed by discussion with players
who played under him in the great Hull side
of the 1950s, including Colin Hutton and
Johnny Whiteley.
On November 10th the exhibition travels
west to Workington’s Helena Thompson
Museum, with future dates and venues
to be confirmed. Commenting on the
award, Professor Tony Collins, the Rugby
League Cares trustee with responsibility
for heritage, said: “We are thrilled to have
received the support of the Heritage
Lottery Fund. Their backing and that of our
partners at the University of Huddersfield
and Kirklees Council will ensure that Rugby
League’s great heritage will not only be
seen by the widest possible audience
but that hundreds of people will have the
opportunity to volunteer and be part of
collecting, conserving and displaying our
sport’s wonderful history.”
Hull celebrates the opening of the new RLCares touring exhibition - Image copyright David Morris
HERITAGE
Two legends inducted
in to Hall of Fame
Two more of the sport’s legends were
inducted into the sport’s pantheon in
October when Rugby League Cares
hosted the Rugby League Hall of Fame
dinner at the John Smith’s Stadium
in Huddersfield.
The Hall of Fame features the greatest
players ever to have graced a Rugby
League pitch and on Friday October 17
its ranks were swelled to 23 with the
induction of Malcolm Reilly OBE and
Willie Horne.
Malcolm and Willie’s wife Bessie were
on hand at the dinner to be formally
welcomed to the Hall of Fame by a host
of current inductees, including Garry
Schofield OBE, Roger Millward MBE, Billy
Boston MBE, Neil Fox MBE and Tom Van
Vollenhoven, who travelled from his home
in South Africa to attend the ceremony.
Rugby League Cares Chairman Terry
Flanagan said: “Organising and hosting
the Rugby League Hall of Fame dinner is
an exciting fixture in our calendar.
Chief Executive Nigel Wood believes it
is important continue to celebrate the
exploits and talents of Rugby League’s
ultimate heroes.
“We are extremely proud to the have
the opportunity to celebrate our sport’s
former players and the contribution they
have made to the great game.
“These two outstanding players will join
the existing 21 greats within the Rugby
League Hall of Fame,” said Wood.
“The event has proved extremely
popular and everyone involved was
privileged to be joined such a glittering
array of Rugby League talent from the
Hall of Fame members.”
The two new inductees were granted
Hall of Fame status by a selection panel
comprising experienced journalists,
broadcasters and administrators.
“As we approach an exciting new era
with a new league structure for 2015, it is
important to celebrate our heritage and to
recognise the players who have enriched
our game through the years.
“The Hall of Fame dinner is always a
fantastic occasion and we are grateful to
Rugby League Cares for their continued
support of this important initiative.”
Following last year’s induction of
Lewis Jones, Martin Offiah MBE, Garry
Schofield OBE and Mick Sullivan, RFL
The 23 members of the Rugby League Hall of Fame are as follows:
1988 INDUCTEES
1989 INDUCTEE
-
Douglas Clark MM
2014 INDUCTEES
-
Billy Batten
-
-
Ellery Hanley MBE
-
Willie Horne
-
Brian Bevan
-
Martin Hodgson
-
Malcolm Reilly OBE
-
Billy Boston MBE
2000 INDUCTEES
-
Alex Murphy OBE
-
Vince Karalius
2013 INDUCTEES
-
Jonty Parkin
-
Tom Von Vollenhoven
-
Lewis Jones
-
Gus Risman
-
Roger Millward MBE
-
Martin Offiah MBE
-
Albert Rosenfeld
-
Garry Schofield OBE
-
Jim Sullivan
2005 INDUCTEES
-
Mick Sullivan
-
Harold Wagstaff
-
Neil Fox MBE
Eric Ashton MBE
MALCOLM REILLY OBE
In the month when Sam Burgess and
James Graham were poster-boys for the
South Sydney-Canterbury Bulldogs NRL
grand final and Castleford swept the
board at the Man of Steel ceremony, it is
timely that Malcolm Reilly earns his place
in rugby league’s Hall of Fame.
As a trailblazing Briton dominating
the Australian competition and an
inspirational leader of the perennial West
Yorkshire underdogs, Reilly is without
peer. And there has been no forward of
greater influence in rugby league’s post
limited-tackles era.
Malcolm Reilly did it all on both sides
of the world - as a player and coach.
He remains the only Englishman to win
Challenge Cup finals and Australian grand
finals in both capacities.
As a dynamic loose-forward with all the
skills and a ruthless streak, he was the
Malcolm Reilly OBE
lynchpin of the last Great Britain team
to win an Ashes series, terrorising the
Australian and New Zealand forwards
on the near-flawless 1970 tour of the
Southern Hemisphere.
The impression made on that tour
had poker-machine rich Sydney clubs
clamouring for his signature. He duly
joined Manly within a matter of months
and it proved a shrewd choice as he
propelled the Sea Eagles to the first two
premiership triumphs in their history.
Reilly had famously eschewed soccer for
rugby league, signing for Castleford in
1967, winning a debut season first honour
as they completed a hat-trick of Floodlit
Trophy triumphs and proving the driving
force as the club emerged from the
wilderness to become a fearsome trophywinning force.
In 1968-69, with Reilly part of a dream
midfield axis alongside Alan Hardisty and
Keith Hepworth, Castleford came within
an ace the ‘double’. He took the Lance
Todd Trophy for his majestic Wembley
display in the defeat of Salford and the
club went closer than ever to winning
the Championship, going down a late
converted try in the decider against
Leeds. In 1970, the Challenge Cup was
retained against Wigan.
When he lost in the infamous World Cup
Final of 1970 against Australia, it was his
9th cap in a year. A long and illustrious
international career beckoned. Instead, it
was his last appearance for Great Britain.
The move to Manly brought wealth,
adulation and back-to-back premierships
but also a premature end to a potentially
great test career.
the-wall series win in New Zealand in
1990 and agonised as they lost 2-1 to
Australia on home soil, later that year.
His team completed a record 33-10 win
with a stunning display in Melbourne in
1992 but they edged out in the Brisbane
decider, just as they were in the armwrestle of the World Cup Final, before a
record Wembley audience, later that year.
On his return to Castleford in the mid1970s, player-coach, Reilly put together
a team that lived up to the club’s
‘classy’ image and they won sponsored
tournaments in the Yorkshire Cup, for
the first time in their history, the Floodlit
Trophy and their first John Player
Trophy success.
Reilly quit his Great Britain role on the
eve of the 1994 Ashes series to take
up the personal challenge of winning
a premiership as coach, in a truly
professional environment, with
the fledgling, success-starved
Newcastle Knights.
After retiring as a player, having agonised
as Castleford were denied Wembley
visits three times in four seasons Hull,
Reilly steered them to another againstthe-odds Cup triumph over the Hull KR
side coached by his great friend, Roger
Millward, in 1986.
Typically, he moulded a combination that,
fired by the mercurial Andrew Johns,
would secure the Knights’ maiden title.
And the never-say-die qualities of his
team were embodied by Darren Albert
scoring the winning try just 7 seconds
from full time to settle the epic 1997
grand final defeat of… Manly.
That triumph made his 1987 appointment
as Great Britain coaching successor
to Maurice Bamford a formality and he
would enjoy a remarkable seven-year
period at the helm.
He halted Great Britain’s 10-year, win-less
drought against Australia in 1988, guided
the under-strength Lions to a backs-to-
His playing career with Castleford
incorporated 316 appearances, including
nine finals, over a 19-year period and
two spells. He scored 68 tries, 9 goals
and 4 drop-goals but if ever a playing
career amounted to much more than bald
statistics it was that of Malcolm Reilly.
Willie Horne
WILLIE HORNE
Willie Horne was an iconic figure in the immediate postwar era when crowds flocked to rugby league during the
greatest boom period in the game’s history. And at his
zenith he was regarded as the greatest player in the world.
A pioneer of the ‘round-the-corner’ goal-kicking style and a
genial, maverick stand-off, Horne was among those unlucky
players whose career was delayed by the Second World War.
He was almost 21 when he made his debut yet played more
than 500 games and amassed over 2,000 points at club and
representative level.
Horne broke Barrow’s club records for goals and points in a
career, at that time, but he was much more than a remorseless
points-gatherer.
He was the talisman for a wonderful Barrow team during the
greatest period in their history and few players have ever been
more synonymous with one club, allowing for the fact that he
played 2 trial games for Oldham prior to signing on at
Craven Park.
He was worshipped in the town where he was born in 1922,
leading Barrow out in three Wembley finals between 1951 and
1957 and kicking six goals when captaining them to their solitary
Challenge Cup win against Workington Town in the ‘NorthWest final’ of 1955 having, earlier that season, lifted their first
Lancashire Cup following the triumph over Oldham.
Like Brian Bevan, opponents were often lured into a false sense
of security because of Horne’s slender, wiry frame, unaware that
here was a man of rare durability and limitless courage as well as
possessing unmatched evasive skills.
Horne had to remain adept at avoiding trouble in an often brutal
era because Barrow were not the same team without him.
Morally courageous and supremely confident in his own ability,
he was never afraid to attempt the unorthodox in the quest for
glorious victory.
He captained Great Britain when they regained the Ashes against
Clive Churchill’s Kangaroos in 1952 and that was something of
a personal crusade. Willie had suffered a career-threatening torn
Achilles on the 1950 tour and been denied an appearance in
the series that saw Australia end their 28-year wait to defeat the
Lions.
His eight caps for Great Britain were scant reward for a player
of such supreme talent and they came in the six year period
between 1946 and 1952. Horne was outstanding when the
‘Indomitables’ remained unbeaten in the first post-war, three-test
Ashes series.
Seven of those caps came in Anglo-Australian test football and
but for injury on that 1950 tour he would have featured in the
first four post-war Ashes series at a time when there was fierce
competition for the number six jersey. And there was huge
controversy when the selectors omitted Horne and denied him a
third tour with the Lions in 1954.
Horne made his Barrow debut against St Helens in March 1943
and the final appearance exactly sixteen years later against
Swinton. He made 462 appearances, scoring a then-record
1,818 points from 112 tries and 741 goals.
He made a further 55 appearances in representative football
for Great Britain, 14 caps for England, 14 appearances for
Lancashire and Lions tour games in 1946 and 1950.
By the time he succumbed to cancer at the age of 79, in 2001,
the incomparable Willie Horne had been made a freeman of the
borough, there was a street named after him and Barrow one of
the Craven Park stands after the greatest player in their history.
2015 RFL
PRESIDENT’S
BALL
Rugby League Cares is delighted to announce
the President’s Ball will take place at the Queen’s
Hotel, Leeds, on Saturday 10th January 2015.
Proceeds from the President’s Ball support the
Benevolent Fund.
Tickets are £65 or £60 for RLCares members.
Everyone is welcome!
For bookings and inquiries, please
contact Katie Irwin on 07540 636515 or
[email protected]
Rooms cost only £69 - a special rate for
President’s Ball guests. Please book directly with
the hotel.
This is a special night, so black tie and posh
frocks please.
Those of us who watch Rugby League in awe of the sheer guts and determination of the players
owe it to those players who are injured in the cause of our enjoyment to help, as far as we can, to
look after them as best we can.
I would urge anyone who enjoys watching Rugby League to get behind Rugby League Cares
and support The President’s Ball at the Queen’s Hotel on Saturday 10th January 2015 where all
monies raised will go to the RFL Benevolent Fund.
Andrew Farrow, RFL President
BENEVOLENT FUND
Matt King christmas cards
The RFL Benevolent Fund is delighted to announce this
year’s Christmas cards, designed and painted by Matt
King OBE, are officially on sale NOW!
Matt’s cards have been a huge success and have raised thousands
of pounds for the charity which supports seriously injured Rugby
League players.
The Rugby Football League Benevolent Fund was formed in 2005
to give lifelong support to amateur and professional rugby league
players who have suffered a serious life changing injury.
The support we give is towards rehabilitation and enhancing the
players’ quality of life. This includes physiotherapy, educational
grants, adaptations to houses and assistance towards mobility.
Matt was seriously injured playing rugby league in 2004 during his
first game for the London Broncos Academy. Since his injury he
went on to achieve a First class honours degree in Law and has
gained employment as a solicitor.
His inspirational character has led him to be a fundraiser for the
RFL Benevolent Fund and spinal injuries charities. Matt was a
torchbearer for the London 2012 Olympics and was awarded an
OBE for his fundraising achievements in the Queen’s Birthday
Honours List.
This will be the fourth consecutive year that Matt has used his
unique artistic talents to paint the card by using only a mouth piece.
After the previous picturesque snowy landscape designs, this
year, Matt has chosen a portrait of children’s favourite Christmas
grouch… The Grinch!
Due to the increasing demand for the cards we’re urging people to
get their orders in as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
A pack of 10 cards will cost just £12, or you can buy them individually
at a cost of £1. The postage fee is £1.95, even for bulk orders.
For more information or to place an order please contact Katie Irwin
on [email protected] - 07540 636515
Danny Fielding’s story
Since its inception in 2005, the Benevolent Fund has
striven to support people and their families who have
been affected by serious injury whilst playing Rugby
League. £1 million plus funds has been distributed to
many acute cases that involve a lifelong commitment.
There are also around 50 individual cases per year were players
have needed some form of help and support after an injury has
affected their day-to-day lives.
Some players are unaware that this support is available to
them, but that doesn’t stop the Benevolent Fund finding them,
wherever they are, and offering their help.
Danny Fielding’s story is a typical example of the Benevolent
Fund’s work and how they tailor support to each individual’s
specific needs.
“
I was playing for Milford Marlins in our first game of the
help you. It meant the world to me to know that there were
season against East Leeds, when I had my injury. I was
people out there from the Rugby League community that
getting up from a tackle when one of the lads fell onto my
wanted to help me, and that I hadn’t been forgotten about,
leg, with both of his knees, which ended up shattering my
even though I live way down here in Devon
entire shin.
I ended up having further complications in hospital and
it was thought that my leg would have to be amputated.
Thankfully, they managed to save the leg but it has left me
with walking difficulties and other issues.
Before the accident, I was in the Marines for 11-years and
I’d been living in Devon with my wife and kids. After coming
out of the services, I had come back up to Leeds for work
Thanks to the Fund we have been able to get a new
adjustable bed that has improved my sleeping because I’m
able to put my leg in better positions and things like that.
Also, the Fund has got me an iPad which is easier for me
to use than a laptop, because I can’t have anything resting
on my legs when I’m forced to be laid up in bed sometimes
due to the injury.
and was staying with my mum at the time. Obviously, after
The other aspect in which the Fund has helped me is
the accident, I came back down to Devon to be with my
socially. Steve invited me and the wife down to Wembley for
family because the injury means that I’m not working now.
the Tetley’s Challenge Cup Final and we had had a brilliant
I didn’t approach the Benevolent Fund, it was them who
weekend. It was nice to share stories with some of the
found me, and I can’t thank them enough that they did
other beneficiaries and have some camaraderie with them,
because their support has been fantastic. Stephen Ball
which is something I miss the most about not playing. The
(General Manager) drove all the way down here to visit me
Benevolent Fund has made me feel part of something again
and basically explained that the Benevolent Fund is here to
and I’m massively grateful for that and all they have done.
You can make difference to seriously injured Rugby Players just like Danny by joining the RL Cares Membership
Scheme for only £20.00 per year or £2.00 per month. Become a member today at www.rugbyleaguecares.org
“
BENEVOLENT FUND
Matt King: spinal cord injury
association awards
Matt King
As part of the Spinal Injuries Association’s 40th
anniversary celebrations, a glittering awards ceremony
was held this summer which saw Matt King OBE collect
two of their most prestigious awards.
The ‘Rebuilding Lives after a Spinal Cord Injury Awards’ celebrates
the outstanding achievements of people in the SCI community.
Matt, who was paralysed from the neck down in a tackle during his
first game for the London Broncos Academy in 2004 at the age of
17, was the man of the night, being commended twice during the
evening, as a positive role model for spinal cord injured people and
for this charitable work.
A host of celebrity guests helped announce the winners of the 16
awards which included actors Steven Mangan, Oliver Phelps and
Ben Owen Jones, presenters Gary Lineker and Lucy Alexander, and
Paralympians Steve Brown and Josie Pearson.
Matt’s first accolade of the evening was the Inspirational
Achievement Award for Adults, which he shared with Lucy
Robinson. King then went onto claim the main honour of the night
when he collected the Stephen Bradshaw Award for Rebuilding
Lives after a SCI - Overall Winner.
Matt’s latest richly deserved achievements comes two years after
he was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in
2012, but he remains modest and pays tribute to those who have
helped him battle adversity and overcome a life changing injury.
A delighted Matt said: “When I went up to collect my awards, I was
genuinely lost for words, and almost slightly embarrassed because I
don’t consider what I’ve done to be anything other than making the
best out of what happened.
“The joint award was very special, it was incredible to be named
alongside a wonderful girl who was involved in a car crash and
had suffered a spinal cord injury. She has been out in Bangladesh
pioneering for treatment as well as being involved in building
rehab centres for the people out there.
“To collect the main award was quite overwhelming, there were
people who had made some remarkable achievements since their
injuries, and it was very humbling.
“However, when it sunk in, it was quite emotional because it
brought home to me how far I’d actually come on the journey
I’ve been on and how fortunate I am to be in the position that I
am today.
“To receive the OBE was a great honour, but to be recognised by
the Spinal Injuries Association is much more personal because it’s
almost like being recognised by your peers, which makes it that
more meaningful.
“If you had of told me in the hospital, 10-years ago, that I would be
where I am today, back working and leading a relatively normal life,
I wouldn’t have believed you.
“Obviously, I wouldn’t have been able to do any of it without the
amazing support that I’ve received from my family, friends, medical
team and of course the Benevolent Fund and the Rugby League
community in general.
“To know that when you’re having a bad day, and you’re struggling,
that there’s a support network behind you who you can turn to for
whatever reason is what helps you overcome the difficult situations
that we face.
“I feel very grateful to the Benevolent Fund, had this charity
not been put in place years ago I certainly wouldn’t be where
I am today.”
Matt’s inspirational achievements during the decade after
sustaining his spinal cord injury have included going back to
school and finishing his A-Levels, before going onto the University
of Herefordshire where he studied law and got First-Class
Honours Degree.
Now 27-years-old, Matt is currently in his final year of a legal training
contract with Stewarts Law in London where he is working towards
being a fully qualified solicitor.
Giving something back to the charities who have supported
him has always been high on the agenda and King has raised
thousands of pounds and awareness having been the first
quadriplegic to complete the New York Marathon using only his
chin to control his motor-powered wheelchair.
Matt continues to apply his artistic talents, using a mouth piece,
to design and paint Christmas cards to sell in aid of the Benevolent
Fund which have been extremely popular and have sold out
each year.
A split second changed Matt’s life forever, but that hasn’t stopped
him striving towards being the best that he can be and there’s no
signs of him slowing down anytime soon.
Matt added: “I am still hopeful that I can win my ongoing battle to
compete in the London Marathon and I want to be on the starting
line next year should the organisers permit me to do so.
“I’m also in the process of writing a book and I’m currently about
half way through having wrote, up to now, just over 65.000 words.
“It’s been a difficult experience, the one thing I did want to make
sure on when deciding on writing the book was that it was done
properly, and I was open and honest about everything.
“That has included me having to go into detail about some very
personal issues that people who haven’t had a spinal cord injury
wouldn’t even contemplate.
“I suppose it’s a warts and all story, it has to be and it would be
wrong not to include things because they’re embarrassing or
difficult to talk about.
“It’s a very long process fitting it in around work, but we’re hoping
to have it out by Christmas 2015.
“Work is going great, I’m in my final year of my legal training
contract with Stewarts Law where I have been working for the last
three years. After this placement, I’ll be a fully qualified solicitor.
“Everything is ticking along nicely at the moment, life isn’t hard
anymore, and I’ve grown to accept that this is my life, I don’t
compare to how it was before and I’m happy getting on with it. I’ve
just recently got engaged and we’re looking forward to the future.”
Matt continues to be an inspiration to all and we are very pleased
that the Benevolent Fund has been able to support Matt and his
family whenever we can. Added Tim Adams (Chairman of the RFL
Benevolent Fund).
Hit me Wagga - one more time!
Cares is thrilled to be involved with Rugby
AM and its commitment to promoting the
sport of Rugby League and generating
much needed funds for the 3 chosen
charities. It’s an exciting partnership
especially for the RL Cares Dance
Programme ‘Join the Momentum’ - we
are looking forward to having some of our
young people brushing shoulders with their
favourite RL stars performing to the Dance
track. We’d like to encourage anyone with a
passion for Rugby League to download the
track and get dancing.
This will be a fantastic way to reach new
people who would not normally engage
with Rugby League, there will be over 40
professional players and legends dancing
in the video that will be filmed in early
December.
Wayne “Wagga” Godwin
Wayne “Wagga” Godwin and 40
professional Rugby League player to
star in a music video to raise money
for the Steve Prescott Foundation, St
Gemma’s hospice and RL Cares.
The Team behind Rugby Leagues TV show
Rugby AM which is currently aired freeview
on Premier Sports TV (Sky channel 428 and
Virgin channel 551) are planning an assault
on the pop charts to help launch the game
of Rugby League to a wider audience and
raise some money for charities connected
to the game.
Rugby AM has risen to prominence
gathering a cult following since its
conception in July 2012 progressing from
a weekly radio show onto TV; Rugby AM
was the brainchild of nightclub DJ Alex
Simmons and Leeds Rhinos players Keith
Senior and Jamie Jones Buchanan.
Rugby AM showcases the personalities
within the sport, raising profiles of the
players and allowing the fans to get to know
the lads off the field.
Alex Simmons the show’s creator said,
“All we want to do is raise the profile of
the game, Rugby AM is made by the
commitment off the players who give up
their time for free and share our vision
of improving the reach of the game and
engagement with fans” “Releasing this
single has always been a plan of mine and
the fact I get to raise some cash for great
Rugby League charities is a huge bonus, I
genuinely believe we can make the top
10 in the charts”.
The track “Katie” by Alex Simmons is used
as the theme tune to Rugby AM. “On our
first TV show I never knew we had to own
the music we put on TV so I went into my
back catalogue of unreleased originals and
every song you hear on Rugby AM I have
written and produced”. “It’s nice to hear
the song on TV and I will be made up if my
passion for music can help grow the great
game of Rugby League”
The first showing of the video will be on
the Rugby AM TV Christmas special that is
broadcasted on Premier Sports TV.
The single is set for release mid January
2015 - Further details will be announce
via Rugby League Cares website
www.rugbyleaguecares.org
The idea to release the single came form
a meeting on the golf course at Super
Leagues best golfer tournament between
Alex and Richard Mathers.
“At Super League’s Best Golfer we raised
a great amount for 2 great charities, St
Gemmas which is close to my heart & The
Steve Prescott Foundation which is all close
to our hearts within the game. I’ve been
friends with Alex for 15 years and always
followed his music, the idea came to blend
the 2 ideas of music & charity together on
the golf course. Over a series of meetings
we have decided to go for it and get one
of Alex’s tracks in the charts with a video
showcasing all the dancing skills of the
games players, all to raise as much money
as possible for charity while promoting our
great game & stars to a national audience”
Richard Mathers.
Sarah Elston - Project Manager for the
Cares Dance programme is looking forward
to seeing the dance talents of some of
Rugby Leagues biggest personalities - RL
Wayne “Wagga” Godwin
Teachers Rugby League
Rugby League
Cares is eager
to expand its
work within
the community
game. Teachers
Rugby League
(TRL) has been
chosen as one of
our first test cases. We hope to assist
TRL in raising its profile to increase
uptake and finding sponsorship.
It is now a group of qualified teachers who
play or have played Rugby League. The
aim is to develop and improve the tier of
rep rugby and eventually to spread the
game to new and developing nations.
“The TRL started as a chance conversation
between 3 PE teachers at a RL festival in
St Helens. The TRL founder, Tony Fretwell,
then teaching at The Heath in Runcorn,
set up the Facebook group we use today.
He then got another job and forgot about
the page! Upon returning to it he found
over 200 had joined! It started with the aim
of one friendly against the British Asian
Rugby Association and has grown since
then, entering the 2011 Steeden Cup and
forming a women’s team in 2012.
TRL Women’s Team
TRL Men’s Team
preparation and selection for this
huge event.
In February 2014, Tony Fretwell handed
over the reins of the Teachers Rugby
League to myself, Scott Burns.
At present the Great Britain TRL have no
set base and rely on help from local clubs
to donate pitches to facilitate our training
sessions. As a not for profit organisation
you can imagine the struggle to find
locations, equipment and kit.
I have been a part of the TRL from the very
first game and has been working tirelessly
behind the scenes to take them to the
next level!
Our recent partnership with Rugby League
Cares is hopefully a turning point in our
financial situation with help from the
Community Raffle and Memberships.
At present I run both a Men’s and Women’s
Great Britain Teachers teams with the
introduction of the Great Britain TRL
Masters team in September 2014.
We are continuously looking for sponsors
and funds to give our players the
International representative rugby league
we have fought so hard to establish.
We now compete in the RFL Associations
Cup every year with a view to entering the
Challenge Cup from 2015.
Great Britain Teachers Rugby League are
also proudly competing in the World Cup
2017 in Australia and all our games and
tournaments are geared to be used as
If you are interested in playing or can offer
any assistance to Great Britain Teachers
Rugby League please contact Scott
Burns, Head of Teachers Rugby League
at sburnsteachersrugbyleague@hotmail.
com.” Scott Burns
David Houghton
Houghton said: “Obviously Rugby League was all I wanted to do
but I did feel it was essential to get some sort of trade behind
me just in case. I can’t emphasise enough just how important
that decision was and I’d strongly advise any youngster to learn
another skill whilst playing the game because an injury could
happen anyone, at any time.
“I struggled to come to terms with having to retire, it was hard
to take and hard to deal with. I don’t think it matters what level
you’re playing at, it’s not just about the money, it’s also the
other aspects that playing Rugby League, or any sport for that
matter, brings.
“However, over time, it has been made easier, I’ve turned a
corner and I have a new direction now. I’ve recently set up my
own business that we’re looking to grow it in my home town of St
Helens and across the surrounding areas of the North West.”
After rising through the ranks at the Vikings, Houghton, was a
regular first-team member during the 2010 season but limited
opportunities the year after saw him move to Cumbria and link up
with Whitehaven where he became a firm fans’ favourite.
Retiring from Rugby League can be a difficult time for any
player, at any level, to come to terms with and even more
so if a career is brought to an abrupt end due to injury.
It was during Whitehaven’s match against Leigh Centurions
when Houghton tore his anterior cruciate knee ligament and after
further complications throughout his rehabilitation he was told he
For David Houghton, a serious knee injury sustained in 2013
wouldn’t be able to play anymore.
forced the former Widnes and Whitehaven prop-forward to hang
He added: “I still very much want to be involved in the game, it
up his boots prematurely at the young age of just 23.
was hard to watch at first but having played Rugby League since
Houghton, had been a Rugby League fanatic all his life and was a
I was six-years-old It wasn’t long before I wanted to be a part of it
product of the famous St Helens amateur club Blackbrook before
again in some capacity.
signing professionally with the Widnes Vikings as a 16-year-old.
“I’ve looked into starting my coaching badges and Barry
Like many young-men of his age, playing the sport he loved was all
Richardson, the CEO of Whitehaven, who has been great with me
Houghton wanted to do and injuries was the furthest thing from his
throughout this time, has said they could be an opportunity up
mind. However, Houghton had the common sense to make sure he
there further down the line.
had a trade behind him and served an apprenticeship as a Painter
“I think I’ve got a lot to offer and even if it’s just coaching the
and Decorator, which he combined with playing Rugby League.
youngsters down at Haydock and passing on what I’ve learned to
Although his playing days are unfortunately over, Houghton has
them is something that I’m definitely looking to pursue in
another career to fall back on and has recently established his
the future.”
own painting and decorating business which he now hopes to
expand across the North-West.
Terry Flanagan awarded Mike Gregory
Spirit of Rugby League Award
Rugby League Cares Chairman, Terry Flanagan was
awarded the Mike Gregory Spirit of Rugby League award
in front of a packed house at the First Utility Super
League Man of Steel Awards dinner.
Sky broadcaster Eddie Hemmings introduced the award on
the night and commented about Rugby League Cares “Rugby
League Cares is an organisation which continues to make a
positive impact on the lives of so many people involved in the
sport. Terry’s passion and commitment knows no bounds”.
The Mike Gregory Spirit of Rugby League award recognises
and acknowledges individuals whose career in the game has
consistently reflected the core values of the sport over an
extended period of time and who have made a significant
and positive contribution to Rugby League in this way. It is
named in memory of Mike Gregory, the former Great Britain and
Warrington captain who sadly passed away in 2007.
Terry Flanagan commenting on receiving the award “I’m
delighted to receive the award, it’s totally out of the blue” To
be in such esteemed company as the previous winners is a
great honour and I am very humbled. Rugby League Cares has
come a long way in short space of time, and it’s a pleasure to
work with such great people delivering our work throughout
the game. Before we started on RL Cares there was lots of
great work going on, but now everything is joined up we are
achieving so much more. There is more to do, our heritage
work is developing really well and our role supporting current
and former players welfare is now providing much needed
assistance to those that need help.
The inaugural award was made posthumously to the former
Great Britain and Warrington captain Mike Gregory who passed
away in 2007. Both players and non-players are eligible to
receive the award, which is judged by a panel from the sports’
governing body, the RFL. Previous winners include:
-
-
-
-
-
-
2008 Mike Gregory
2009 Steve Prescott MBE
2010 Ray French MBE
2011 Harry Jepson OBE
2012 Jamie Peacock MBE
2013 Martin Coyd
Terry a former Oldham and Great Britain player is one of the
principle driving forces behind Rugby League Cares, acting as
Chairman of the organisation since its formation in 2012.
Rugby League Cares is involved in a great many projects across
the whole of Rugby League, from player welfare all the way
through to preserving the sports great heritage and celebrating
our heroes via the Hall of Fame.
“Anyone can get involved in Cares, we need more members.
The more members we have, it will increase volunteering and
our funds to deliver projects and help more people throughout
the game” We’ve had a great response from the sport so far, but
we need more, please join” appealed Terry.
Terry Flanagan and Eddie Hemmings