LDSL returns to Magic Weekend

We’re extremely proud to announce that the Community Integrated Care Learning Disability Super League returns to Magic Weekend in 2022. Fans attending the festival of Rugby League will have the privilege of watching and supporting a truly inspirational adapted version of the sport. Following two years of Covid-19 restrictions and precautions, everyone involved is excited to have all players back participating at Major events in 2022. The exhibition fixtures will be played during half time of Game 2 on both Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 July at St James’ Park, Newcastle.

Since making a debut appearance at the 2019 Magic Weekend in Anfield, this pioneering inclusive sports programme has gathered huge momentum. In three years, the Learning Disability Super League has received immense national attention and numerous prestigious awards, including being named as the ‘Best Innovation’ at the Great British Care Awards.

The programme now includes over 230 players from 16 Super League and Championship clubs.

Super League and Community Integrated Care will also be partnering to change lives off the field too at the event too. People supported by us will also be attending the event to enjoy aspirational volunteering roles. During the 2021 Magic Weekend we saw 30 volunteers with learning disabilities enjoy exciting opportunities such as matchday photography, media and journalism duties, catering for Sky Sports Broadcast team, hosting hospitality suites, and even DJing the Fan Zone with a 5 song set.

John Hughes, Director of Partnerships and Communities for Community Integrated Care says:

“The Learning Disability Super League has changed the lives of so many people, giving them the chance to live their dreams and represent the clubs that they love. We are thrilled that the players will once again enjoy the unforgettable experience of playing at Magic Weekend.

This weekend is being made even more special by the sport enabling the people we support at Community Integrated Care to develop new skills by volunteering in their dream jobs at the event. Our thanks go to our partners at Betfred Super League, as well as the RFL and Foundations, for sharing our commitment to making a difference through Rugby League.”

Timings and Teams

Saturday 9^th July:

Teams: Wakefield Trinity, St Helens, Wigan Warriors, Leeds Rhinos, Castleford Tigers, Widnes Vikings, Leigh Centurions, Barrow Raiders, & Sheffield Eagles.

Half-Time Game: 5.30pm (St Helens vs Wigan Warriors Betfred Super League fixture)

Sunday 10^th July:

Teams: Salford Red Devils, Warrington Wolves, Hull Kingston Rovers, Hull FC, Featherstone Rovers, Newcastle Thunder, & Halifax Panthers.

Half-Time Game: 4.00pm (Catalans Dragons vs Warrington Wolves Betfred Super League fixture)