Members of Hull FC’s LDRL squad have been presented with their first ever match jerseys ahead of their opening fixture this weekend.
Launched at the start of 2020, the Black & Whites’ Learning Disability Rugby League side have been forced to wait over 18 months for their first competitive fixture due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but kick off their campaign with thrilling derby fixture against Hull Kingston Rovers on Sunday.
The 15-player squad were presented with their playing jerseys by coaches Brad Sugden and Matthew Kirby earlier this week, in front of proud parents and guardians.
The square features a range of players from various background and of different ages, including some players who are completely new to Rugby League, as well as some familiar names including ‘The Geddes Boys – Daniel and Martin Geddes, proud sponsors of Jamie Shaul.
The first Learning Disability Super League ‘Derby’ between Hull FC and Hull KR is this coming Sunday 11th July, 11:00 kick off, on the Rugby 4G Pitch at the University of Hull.
A full squad list can be found below, alongside their squad and heritage numbers:
1 – Aaron Fairhead
2 – Daniel Geddes
3 – Martin Geddes
4 – Joshua Gooch
5 – John Spencer
6 – Paul Spencer
7 – Shane Stoneley
8 – James Nixon
9 – Robert Livingstone
10 – Nikita Borrill
11 – Ben Whiteman
12 – Jason Hunter
13 – Hannah White
14 – Jacob East
15 – Declan Fletcher
About Learning Disability Rugby League
Learning Disability Rugby League (LDRL) is an adaption of the sport developed to allow those with learning disabilities to enjoy the game of Rugby League.
The LDRL activity is part of a wider strategic partnership between Community Integrated Care, the Betfred Super League and the RFL, which aims to develop and enhance the community programmes provided by the sport to people with care and support needs.
As the official social care partner of the sport, Community Integrated Care will be leading the development of a range of programmes that will use Rugby League to transform the lives of people who require care and support.
The emphasis in LDRL is on inclusion and enjoyment. It was conceived to provide a team-sport experience to those who would previously would not have had such an opportunity.
LDRL is played on a quarter-pitch with seven-a-side teams. The games are non-contact and follow Tag Rugby League rules.
Teams are allowed two able-bodied players who will play as facilitators, to ensure the match is both free-flowing and well-balanced. Typically the able-bodied roles are taken up by current and/or former professional Rugby League players.
LDRL activities are delivered with a view to developing the participants skills and confidence while providing new challenges and opportunities.
Interested in joining?
The Hull FC LDRL team is entirely inclusive and welcomes all players, regardless of skill or experience.
To get involved, make lots of new friends and keep fit & healthy, please contact bradley.sugden@hullfc.com and come along to our weekly Tuesday night sessions, 5.30pm-6.30pm, starting next Tuesday 12th November at the club’s Centre of Excellence facility on Pickering Road.
A full gallery from our shirt presentation event can be found below:
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