South Tweed volunteer Mick Sullivan has outlined the huge potential for growth for All Abilities Rugby League after the success of an inaugural program held in the Northern Rivers.
Sullivan was a driving force behind the initiative in the region, which aims to introduce Rugby League to participants with disabilities.
“I approached Group 18 three years ago and was going to start it there but then COVID-19 took hold,” Sullivan said.
Sullivan turned to disability support companies to back the program in order to motivate older participants to become involved in a sport.
There have already been two sessions of the program with the final one to take place on Tuesday 29 November.
“To say it was a success is an understatement,” Sullivan said.
“The first 72 hours after the program have just been mayhem, phone calls and other people asking how they can get involved.
“Now I have one of the biggest support companies coming down to this next program and bringing along their son who has a disability as well.
“I knew it was going to go off because there is a massive need for it.”
The program will have its final session tomorrow at Dave Burns Fields, South Tweed Heads. Sullivan is planning to reconvene All Abilities in March.
“We will try and do a five to six-week block to create some interest in the new year and fit them on Saturdays between the older boys' games.
“There is a possibility we could bring a side down from the Titans as well. The growth is going to be ridiculous.”
“I didn’t think we would have this sort of response especially afterwards.”
“I said (to the guys) the other day Rugby League when there are no agendas, and we just rock up, look how much fun it is. You’ll be surprised how much you get out of it.
“Rugby League has the ability to change lives like it did on Tuesday. I think it is important and I am very passionate about it.”
