Leeds Rhinos Foundation is proud to announce a new partnership with Sovereign Homes, a leading property development company operating across the UK.
This collaboration will see Sovereign Homes become official sponsor of our Rhinos Talent Pathway programme for 2025-2026, helping to develop the next generation of Rugby League stars.
The partnership was officially welcomed by Rhinos legend, Jamie Jones-Buchanan, who introduced Sovereign Homes Director, Lewis Minnock, to the work of the Foundation both on and off the pitch.
Passionate about giving back to his hometown, Lewis was inspired to support the Foundation’s mission of creating opportunities and positively impacting the local community.
As part of this partnership, Sovereign Homes will directly support the Rhinos Talent Pathway – a programme designed to nurture talented rugby league players through player development opportunities.
The programme offers aspiring players a pathway from grassroots rugby into Scholarship, Academy rugby and beyond, while also providing valuable development opportunities for local community club coaches.
Rugby League Development Manager, Darren Higgins, commented on the partnership: “We are extremely grateful to Sovereign Holmes for their support.
“The game of Rugby League in Leeds sees several benefits from the Rhinos Talent Pathway Programme, including players accessing high quality player development and pathway opportunities.
“In the case of players at Y10 and 11 age groups, this also helps with retaining players in the game. Further to this, we currently have 12 volunteer coaches from the community game delivering on the programme and developing their coaching skills, which will in turn benefit their community clubs.”
Jessica Mayho, Business Development Manager at Leeds Rhinos Foundation, added:
“We’re delighted to welcome Sovereign Homes as the official sponsor of the Rhinos Talent Pathway programme for the next 12 months.
“Their support will play a vital role in developing the next generation of talent and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate and thrive in rugby league.
“We truly appreciate Lewis and the team at Sovereign Homes’ support and we’re excited to have them on board!”
The partnership further strengthens our commitment to growing the game in the city of Leeds as part of our Rugby League Development Plan, whilst making a meaningful difference in the community.
Director of Sovereign Homes, Lewis Minnock, said: “I am proud to support the Leeds Rhinos Foundation and the incredible work they do in our local community. Their dedication to using the power of sport to change lives is truly inspiring, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to their efforts.
“It’s fantastic to see the positive impact they have on people of all ages, and I look forward to continuing to support their important work in the future.
“Helping one person might not change the whole world, but it could change the world for one person.”
The support from Sovereign Homes will not only enhance player development but also offer community coaches valuable insights and growth opportunities within a professional sporting environment.
For more information about the Rhinos Talent Pathway or how to get involved, please contact darren.higgins@leedsrhinosfoundation.org.