As part of the Rugby League Development Plan for Leeds, one of Leeds Rugby Foundation’s main aims is to work closely with local community rugby clubs to raise awareness and participation of rugby.
This was evident when a range of local community Rugby League clubs attended Ryan Bailey's testimonial game last month. Birstall Victoria, Stanningley, Drighlington, Beeston Broncos, Guiseley Rangers, Bramley Buffaloes and of course, Bailey's old club, Milford Marlins all had the privilege of partaking in a short game on the famous Headingley Carnegie pitch.
The strength of community clubs in Leeds and the LRF's relationship with them is widely apparent now that all of these clubs, amongst others, have agreed to come back to Headingley Carnegie stadium for all of the Rhino's home games this season.
Throughout the duration of the Rhinos' home games in 2014, local Community clubs will be travelling to Headingley Carnegie to play on the pitch at half time, watch the games, get close to their favourite stars and experience the atmosphere of gameday in its entirety.
One of the games, that sees the Rhinos' pitted against fierce rivals Bradford Bulls on 1st August, sees 8 teams taking part in games and a brass band will also be present. This is again a great testament to the LRF's 3 Year Rugby League Development Plan in which one of the main aims is to give people the chance to watch Hunslet Hawks and the Leeds Rhinos live!
Leeds Rugby Foundation Community Club Development Officer Sam Horner, commented: "Here at the LRF we are always trying to build relationships with community clubs as together we truly have the opportunity to change lives through sport. There is no better way of doing this than at grassroots level."
If you want to find your local community club, or alternatively you want to enter your team in the upcoming Rhinos Challenge Festival (details can be found by visiting http://www.leedsrugbyfoundation.org/news/21645.php#.UvTg_tFFAdU) please email Sam.Horner@leedsrugbyfoundation.org