Players from Super League Champions Leeds Rhinos have given their support to the national Anti-Bullying Week campaign by embracing this year’s theme of all different but equal.
Young Rhinos stars Jack Walker, Josh Jordan-Roberts and Mikolaj Oledzki all wore odd socks to give their backing to the Odd Socks Day on Monday 13th November to kick start the week long anti-bullying campaign.
Walker, who was part of the Grand Final winning squad in October, said: “We are pleased to support Anti-Bullying Week and encourage children to celebrate what makes them, and others, unique.
“In our squad we have players with different talents and personalities and that is definitely something that has helped make us successful. As rugby players we are taught the values of team work and respect and there is no place for bullying in our squad. Being different isn’t something be ashamed of; it is important we value each other’s individuality and treat everyone equally.”
Alongside the players’ support for the campaign the club’s official charity, Leeds Rhinos Foundation, will be delivering anti-bullying assemblies in schools throughout the week, which will include a video starring club mascot Ronnie the Rhino.
Gareth Cook, Community Manager at Leeds Rhinos Foundation said: “We are privileged to be able to work in over 90 primary schools in Leeds and to have the opportunity to teach children about the important messages of respect and self-confidence as well as celebrating what makes us all unique.
“The video we use in our assembly stars the popular mascot Ronnie the Rhino, which we have found to be a really effective way to engage with the children and we hope it encourages all children to feel valued and comfortable in being themselves.
“If children are being bullied it is important that they talk to someone and not to keep it bottled up. Teachers and parents are there to help or there are places online to get advice such as the anti-bullying alliance website.”
For more information on anti-bullying week visit www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk or for more information on Leeds Rhinos Foundation’s work in schools email gareth.cook@leedsrhinosfoundation.org