An all-inclusive sport for people living with or without disability, Wheelchair Rugby League was firmly thrust into the sporting spotlight with the staging of the recent World Cup in the UK.
Played alongside the traditional men’s and women’s competitions, the wheelchair version of rugby league proved hugely popular amongst those associated with the sport and many not previously familiar with a game that allows athletes with disabilities to compete with and against people without disability.
And now the Sharks are throwing their support behind NRL Wheelchair with a Come n Try event to help launch a significant new sporting partnership.
To be held on February 11 at the Anzac Oval Youth and Recreation Centre in Engadine, the Come n Try event encourages people to take part or watch and appreciate what is an inclusive recreational activity, one which promotes fun, fitness and self-development while fostering good sportsmanship in a safe and positive environment.
The Come n Try day and Sharks sporting partnership with NRL Wheelchair has been made possible due to funding provided by Sharks Have Heart and Sharks at Kareela through the ClubGRANTS program.
Local Sutherland Shire resident Liam Luff is an NRL Wheelchair athlete who grew up a passionate fan of the Sharks.
A member of the Australian Skyring Wheelaroos team at last year’s World Cup, Liam and some of his teammates will be present at the Come n Try event, along with Sharks NRL squad members who will also be on hand to support the day.
This inclusive nature of the sport has proved successful internationally, where England became the eventual World Cup champions, beating France in the Final, as it offers a level playing-field for all athletes that few other sports can provide.
The vision of NRL Wheelchair is to be recognised as an inclusive sport for all communities, while providing pathways for participants to represent their respective states, contributing to making it a global sport.
For more information or to register to take part in the Come and Try Day on February 11 – CLICK HERE
