A successful partnership between Leeds Rhinos Foundation and ENGIE Supply UK is transforming access to sport across Leeds, creating life-changing opportunities for people with physical and learning difficulties while inspiring thousands of young people through unforgettable matchday experiences.
In 2025, thanks to ENGIE’s support, Leeds Rhinos Foundation worked with a record number of participants across its Inclusion Programme, helping more people than ever experience the social, physical and emotional benefits of Rugby League.
More than 100 participants took part in Wheelchair Rugby League, Learning Disability Rugby League (LDRL) and Physical Disability Rugby League (PDRL) programmes during the year, giving players the opportunity to be part of a team, develop new skills and enjoy regular competitive sport in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
The partnership also enhanced the Leeds Rhinos matchday experience for young people across the city. Over 4,500 children from community clubs and local schools were invited to take part in Super League fixtures, enjoying once-in-a-lifetime opportunities such as half-time mini games, forming the guard of honour as teams ran out and participating in pitch parades.
ENGIE’s commitment extended beyond funding, with employees actively volunteering to support Leeds Rhinos Foundation’s work. Twenty ENGIE staff took part in the annual Big Sleep fundraising event, while seven employees completed the Rob Burrow Marathon and Leeds 10k in support of the charity.
In 2025, Leeds Rhinos Foundation also launched the RL Tryz initiative, providing young people with physical disabilities the chance to play Rugby League for the first time. Players in the Learning Disability Rugby League programme trained weekly and competed in regular festivals, including the opportunity to play at St James’ Park during the 2025 Magic Weekend.
The programme has also supported personal development beyond the pitch, with one Learning Disability Rugby League player completing their RFL Level 1 Coaching qualification with support from Leeds Rhinos Foundation.
The Physical Disability Rugby League team enjoyed success on the field, being crowned Grand Final winners, while also giving back to the community by volunteering to support and inspire participants in the RL Tryz programme. There were a number of players who were recognised at international level, with 12 Rhinos competing in the Medequip Cup for Yorkshire and eight players earning selection for the 2026 PDRL World Cup squad.
Wheelchair Rugby League continued to go from strength to strength, with over 100 hours of delivery to 39 participants in 2025. The programme supports players from beginner level through to Super League, with two players making their Super League debuts during the season. Leeds Rhinos Wheelchair player Nathan Collins also impressed on the international stage, being named Player of the Series for England during their Ashes series against the Wheelaroos.
In addition, Leeds Rhinos Foundation introduced Wheelchair Rugby League to the next generation, engaging 669 schoolchildren through sessions delivered in educational settings across Leeds.
Together, Leeds Rhinos Foundation and ENGIE Supply UK are demonstrating the power of partnership to break down barriers, promote inclusion and ensure Rugby League is a sport for everyone.