Inaugural Wheelchair Rugby League National Carnival to be played in Queensland
WHEELCHAIR Rugby League Australia (WRLA) will host its inaugural National Carnival on November 29-30 at the Sunshine Coast as part of the game’s celebration of International Day of People with Disability.
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Inclusive Rugby League flyer - Celebrating International Day of People with a Disability
The competition, the first of its kind for the sport, will bring together players from Sydney, regional NSW and across Queensland to compete for the title of best Wheelchair Rugby League team in Australia.
Chairman of WRLA Laurie Lawira said as preparations for the World Cup and future state-v-state competitions continue, a national tournament opens the talent pool for future representative players.
“We are always on the lookout for new players in our sport,” Lawira said. “Some enjoy getting involved, others learn about the potential to represent their country.
“We are hoping to draw both types of athletes and get the message out there that Wheelchair Rugby League is an inclusive sport for everyone.”
Wheelchair Rugby League is affiliated with the National Rugby League and has their support for this event.
“Using International of People with Disability, which is celebrated annually on December 3, we are showcasing the best of rugby league; that everyone can play, whether you have a disability or not, there is a place for you,” Lawira said.
Wheelchair Rugby League is not only for those with a disability – able-bodied athletes can and frequently do participate. Males and females, young and old are all welcome to play the sport.
“It’s a great opportunity for brothers, fathers, best mates to play alongside each other,” Lawira said.
“There’s some unlikely pairings who never thought they would be able to play a sport together, because of an injury or because they were born differently. We give them that chance.”
The round-robin competition includes a coaching clinic as part of its program, and is open to those who have never played the sport before.
Registrations are now open online at www.wrlaustralia.com.au/register (registrations are for individuals only and participants will be assigned teams).
For more details on the tournament, contact Laurie Lawira on Laurie@wrlaustralia.com.au
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Wheelchair Rugby League - Fact Sheet
For more information – visit the Wheelchair Rugby League Australia website or follow-up on the latest news via the Wheelchair Rugby League Australia Facebook page.
