Leeds Civic Trust in association with Leeds Rugby Foundation Heritage Committee are unveiling a Blue Plaque at Headingley Carnegie Stadium on Friday morning.
Headingley Rugby Ground has been in constant use since 1890 when the first game was contested between Leeds and Manningham on 20th September.
The Plaque is to commemorate the venue’s hosting of the inaugural Challenge Cup final between Batley and St Helens in 1897 and the sport’s first Test match between the then Northern Union and the New Zealand 'All Gold’s' in 1908.
With the Kiwis over here to compete in the World Cup and playing their opening match at the venue later that night againt Papua New Guinea, the historic plaque is to be unveiled by New Zealand Team Manager,Tony Iro.
Dr Kevin Grady, Director of Leeds Civic Trust, said:
“For fans across the world, the name ‘Headingley’ is synonymous with high class, exciting sport.
“We are delighted through the unveiling of our blue plaque to help celebrate the tremendous history and tradition associated with the Ground.”
Councillor Lucinda Yeadon, Executive Member for Leisure and Skills in Leeds commented: “The blue plaque is a fantastic celebration of the strong heritage and tradition of rugby league in Leeds,”
“To see it being unveiled on the day that the reigning world champions New Zealand take on Papua New Guinea as part of RLWC2013 makes it even more special.”
Stay tuned to www.leedsrugbyfoundation.org for video coverage of the unveiling.