The Leeds Rhinos Foundation is proud to launch its new Checkatrade Community Club Takeover Nights, an exciting initiative to support rugby league community clubs across Leeds.
As part of the Foundation’s Rugby League Development Plan, the Checkatrade Community Club Takeover Nights will provide a programme of support and engagement for local clubs.
Each participating club will benefit from a dedicated takeover evening featuring a rugby league taster session, a primary and secondary CPD session, a girls’ session where applicable, educational workshops such as respect and volunteering, a visit from Ronnie the Rhino and a player appearance, all delivered by the Foundation’s Rugby League Development staff and supported by Leeds Rhinos legend, Danny McGuire.
The initiative is designed to strengthen the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting 20 community clubs across the city, helping to upskill players and coaches whilst creating positive environments for young people.
This initiative will play a key role in expanding the impact of grassroots rugby league in Leeds. By supporting these takeover nights, Checkatrade will help the Foundation connect with more clubs and inspire greater participation amongst children and young players.
Sam Horner, Rugby League Development Manager at Leeds Rhinos Foundation commented on the impact of the partnership:
“We are so grateful for the support from Checkatrade which will help us continue our great work in the city.
“Our Rugby League Development Plan is so important to keep players and coaches engaged with our game.
“It is a great opportunity for the clubs involved to make the most of our educational offers and gain insight into our delivery techniques, which they can build on and incorporate into their own coaching at community club level.”
Paul McManus, VP of Trade at Checkatrade, added: “At Checkatrade, we know how important it is to invest in young people and open doors to future opportunities.
“Initiatives like the Community Club Takeover Nights don’t just support grassroots sport – they help build confidence, develop skills, and inspire ambition. Such work is integral to encouraging the next generation to explore the many pathways available to them. This includes careers in the trades, which are facing an intense skills crisis and requiring 350,000 additional apprentices in order for the UK to meet consumer demand and government targets in the next decade.
“We’re proud to be working alongside the Leeds Rhinos Foundation, in a partnership which is about changing lives through sport and skilled trades.”
Throughout the year, clubs across Leeds will have the opportunity to host a Checkatrade Community Club Takeover Night, working closely with Leeds Rhinos Foundation development staff. Clubs will be contacted directly by their designated officer to arrange these sessions.
The first of the evenings will take place on Wednesday 1st April at Stanningley SARLC from 6-7pm.