The chance to become part of the Rugby League family happens on Sunday 27 March for any adults or children with a physical disability interested in playing the game.
Physical Disability Rugby League (PDRL) is hosting a ‘Come N Try Day’ as part of Harmony Week, with the event to start at 9.30am at Cabramatta Rugby League’s New Era Stadium.
Officials and current PDRL players will be on hand to show how much fun Rugby League can be for people of all ages and levels. It is aimed at giving families, who want to discover more about the sport, an opportunity to see the game in action and try it for themselves.
PDRL chair Neil Williamson said Harmony Week was the ideal setting as it celebrates not only Australia’s cultural diversity, but the inclusiveness and respect that society is generating.
“The PDRL ‘Come N Try’ event will be a fitting way to highlight the importance of Harmony Week and the inclusive nature of the sport,” he said.
“Sport and the team setting of Rugby League has a way of giving a sense of belonging for everyone.”
At present there are six teams in the NSWPDRL - South Sydney Rabbitohs, Wests Tigers, Newton Jets, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and Manly Warringah Sea Eagles. The 2022 season is due to start on 10 April.
South Sydney player and PDRL co-founder George Tonna sums up the feeling of playing with his teammates.
“For me, it’s great to return to playing Rugby League after so long,” he said.
“I can’t wait to be back on the field with my mates, as the friendships we’ve made are lifelong.
“We’re excited to support the ‘Come N Try’ day and welcome new players.”
PRDL players will display their talents and demonstrate running, catching and ball skills. Participants will also be able to take part in drills designed to build game skills and play a game of touch footy.
A BBQ will follow with players and members to learn more about the sport.
Physical Disability Rugby League is not just growing in Australia. The first PDRL World Cup, an exhibition event, will be held during the end-of-season Rugby League World Cup in the UK.
The six-team tournament will be hosted in Warrington in November and will culminate with the final at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, as the curtain-raiser to the France v Samoa Group A match, scheduled for 30 October.
The World Cup will not be the only representative opportunity for physical disability Rugby League players with a Country v City match scheduled for May.
The Country v City match last year was taken out by City 12-4.
Registrations on Sunday will open from 9.30am. Click here for further information on Physical Disability Rugby League.
