NSW Wheelchair Rugby League Grand Final draws a large vocal crowd
The St George Illawarra Dragons were victorious over Minor Premiers, Wests Tigers at the NSW Wheelchair Rugby League Grand Final played Sunday, April 14 at the Menai Indoor Sports Stadium.
A big crowd of supporters was on hand to watch the Grand Final, with 2019 proving the first time that both Tier 1 and Tier 2 Wheelchair Rugby League teams took the field. The game was attended by NSW Rugby League CEO, David Trodden and Wheelchair Rugby League Australia Director, Deborah Bacon.
Member for Hughes, Craig Kelly MP, was also on hand to cheer on both teams and take part in the Official Ceremony following the game. “I was thrilled to attend tonight’s Grand Final to watch this dynamic and inclusive sport in action. I am very supportive of Wheelchair Rugby League and its role as a sport that can be played by all members of our community including abled bodied athletes and those with disability”, Mr Kelly said.
Chairman of NSW Wheelchair Rugby League Edie George commented “Congratulations to the Dragons on a well fought win. I would also like to congratulate all players who took part in the competitions and finals series. We are looking forward to seeing many of them in action at this year’s Interstate Challenge on Saturday 6th July at the Quay Centre, Olympic Park”.
Wheelchair Rugby League was recently successful in securing a Hughes Electorate Community Grant that will fund the purchase of new sports wheelchairs, helping to grow the game and provide opportunities for people with disability and their families in the Sutherland Shire and beyond.
Media Contact: Joanne Ryan,
Infodec Communications, Phone: 0421 059 866
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 selfesteem.
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.