Leeds Rhinos Foundation are celebrating a record-breaking summer of activity after welcoming 1,300 young people to its multi-sport and drama camps across the city and overseas.
Children were able to enjoy a packed programme of activities including rugby, football, dodgeball, rounders, cricket, netball, and basketball, as well as creative drama sessions. Over 1,100 unique participants took part in camps in Leeds, each attending an average of four days per week, with a further 200 young people joining camps in Holland, Germany, and Gibraltar.
Leeds Rhinos women’s stars Keara Bennett, Bella Sykes, Mel Howard, and Izzy Northrop made special appearances across the camps, while fan favourite Ronnie the Rhino delighted children at every venue.
Leeds Rhinos Foundation also provided employment opportunities for nearly 20 young people aged 16–18, supporting them to gain valuable work experience before moving on to sixth form or university.
Gareth Cook, Head of Community and Engagement at Leeds Rhinos Foundation said:
“This Summer has been the biggest ever camp provision we have delivered across the city, with 1,300 young people attending multi-sport and drama camps.
“Thanks to invaluable support from local ward councillors, we were able to offer camps at a significantly reduced rate to help families with affordable activities over the long summer break.”
“We would like to express our thanks to Alwoodley Ward Council, Alwoodley Parish Council, Harewood Parish Council, Outer East Committee, and Wetherby Ward Council for their vital backing. Overseas camps were made possible through partnerships with The British School (Holland), MOD Germany, and local partners in Gibraltar.
“Thanks must also go to the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Dan Cohen who attended the Moortown multi-sports and drama camps to greet the children and hand out special camp t-shirts.”
Looking ahead, families can look forward to more opportunities later this year, with new Wetherby camps planned for October.
See the highlights from the Moortown RUFC and Allerton Church Of England Primary School camps: