Learning Disability Super League captivates Magic crowd

Our Learning Disability Super League (LDSL) inspired over 50,000 fans at this years Betfred Super League Magic Weekend with an incredible showcase of social inclusion, where 400 people who access social care lived out their dreams at one of sports most iconic stadiums.

Representing over 17 clubs on the pitch through LDSL exhibition games during half time of fixtures, players were spurred on by the tremendous support and reception from all corners of Elland Road.

Organised by the Rugby Football League in association with our charity, this adapted, non-competitive version of rugby league empowers players to follow in the footsteps of their Super League idols, offering participants an accessible sport and unparalleled thrill of competing on some of the sport’s biggest stages.

Recently shortlisted as one of the best community schemes in world sport by the Sports Business Awards, this innovative programme aims to enable independence of players both on and off the field too.

With various fulfilling matchday voluntary roles across the weekend for participants to enjoy, including pitch side photography and presenting medals and asking questions live to the official Betfred Super League ‘Player of the Match’ across both days, each participant made their mark at rugby league’s showpiece summer event.

Reflecting on the weekend, John Hughes, our Director of Partnerships said, “The Learning Disability Super League is a truly one-of-a-kind initiative in world sport, that is creating countless life changing opportunities for people who access social care in their daily lives.

From making lasting memories, such as experiencing the thrill of a standing ovation from the crowd inside a packed Elland Road, to having the chance to share their skills through various volunteering roles, the Magic Weekend is a powerful spectacle of people with learning disabilities living their best lives, and an example of what people can achieve when you believe in their talents.

We’d like to thank our partners the Rugby Football League, RL Commercial, all of the participating clubs, parents, carers, supporters, the participants and people behind the scenes who make this world class initiative possible.”

Tauseef Iqbal, who is supported by our charity and featured live on Sky Sports interviewing Hull KR’s Elliot Minchella, said, “I’m really proud of my role today, and the journey I’ve been on. I would have never imagined I could achieve this before, to not only speak live on TV, but also ask a good question to the player of the match. With the support of the charity, I know I can achieve my goals and dream big, such as being part of Magic Weekend. It is good to know that my skills are valued, and I’m given the chance to show just what I can do.”

Community Integrated Care are the title sponsors and funders of the Learning Disability Super League programme, and the official social care partners of the Rugby Football League. To find out more about joining a team, please visit https://www.rugby-league.com/get-involved/play/ldrl