Manly Warringah Sea Eagles are pleased to throw its support behind the Sydney Northern Beaches Wheelchair Rugby League competition.
To be launched at the Northern Beaches PCYC at Dee Why on Sunday, November 11, the wheelchair-based version of rugby league caters for players of all ages, genders and abilities.
Designated player pathways, for men and women, also allow players the option of progressing to representative levels, including state and Australian teams.
Sea Eagles CEO Lyall Gorman said the Club was proud to be a supporter of the Sydney Northern Beaches Wheelchair Rugby League competition.
"This is a very worthwhile development for the Northern Beaches community and I would encourage people to attend this Sunday to see this inclusive sport in action and to get involved,'' Gorman said.
NRL Wheelchair Director Joseph Chidiac believes that the Northern Beaches launch is the next positive development in cementing the game across Australia.
"We are thrilled to be able to bring the game to the Northern Beaches. Our sport will offer all members of the community the chance to participate and experience the social and physical benefits of team sports", he said.
NSW Wheelchair Rugby League and NRL Wheelchair will be running a Come 'n' Try session and Talent Search as part of the NSW Development Program on the day. They are also calling for people who are interested in becoming players, volunteers or committee members, or just want to have a go.
The event will run from 9.30 am till midday and entry is free.
The new competition has been established with the support of a Northern Beaches Council Stronger Communities Grant that enabled the purchase of a new fleet of sports wheelchairs.
How is Wheelchair Rugby League played?
This fast-paced game is played on an indoor court, about half the size of rugby league field. It follows a five-on-five format, using a rugby league football. A kick is achieved by a clenched fist and a tackle is achieved by removing a Velcro tag from the sleeve of an attacking player. The game allows up to 2 able bodied athletes per team, meaning that members of families and mates can play alongside their siblings and friends.
Wheelchair Rugby League is an inclusive sport – a variation of the running game allowing athletes with disabilities to compete with and against able-bodied people. The emphasis is on the participation, health and well-being of individuals, personal performance, social interaction and self-esteem.
Wheelchair Rugby League aspires to provide an inclusive recreational activity and to promote fun, fitness and self-development while fostering good sportsmanship in a safe and positive environment.
New South Wales Wheelchair Rugby League currently runs seasonal competitions in Sydney and Western Sydney with plans to grow the sport across Australia.
See more here.
