Leeds Rugby Foundation hosted their third Ambassador Festival of Rugby on Sunday at Leeds Rugby Academy, Kirkstall, which saw 40 teams from 18 community clubs’ from across Leeds take part in what was the biggest Junior Rugby League Festival in Yorkshire.
Sunday’s event which was supported by Leeds 17 and the family of Dick Gibson, saw the real power of community clubs come together with approximately 2,000 people flocking through the gates.
The event saw full-contact Rugby League tournaments ran from ages 7 to 11 on the Leeds Rhinos training pitches as well as an over 35's Masters Rugby League tournament.
There were some fantastic skills on show and congratulations to all who took part.
There were also a host of stalls and games including, guessing the middle name of Ronnie the Rhino, as well as a number of raffles. Well done to all the winners.
Rugby League World Cup trophy was enjoyed by all who attended and a special thanks must go to Leeds 17 who fed every child free of charge.
Leeds Rugby Foundation’s Sam Horner who made the event possible commented: “It really was a great day.
“Thanks to everyone who made the day possible and to all the kids and community clubs who showed what can be achieved when we all work together. Without community clubs in Leeds, Rugby League in this area would not exist.”
Councillor Lucinda Yeadon, Executive board member for learning and skills in Leeds said:
"In the year of Rugby League World Cup 2013, it’s great to see so many of our community clubs coming together to celebrate grass roots Rugby League in the city.
"This event is a great example of the fantastic work of Leeds Rugby Foundation to get more people of all ages engaging with and playing Rugby League."
Leeds 17 owner Richard Gibson commented: “At the Leeds Seventeen restaurant, we believe firmly in the values of Leeds Rugby Foundation.
“It’s close to our hearts’ with my father Dick Gibson having been so involved in the game. He would have loved the event at the Academy, all it stands for and would have loved nothing better than seeing all the children playing the sport.
“We wanted to support the tournament to continue the tremendous work that everyone who’s involved at the Foundation is doing.”