The Hull FC Community Foundation has received a Winter Survival Grant for 2022, supporting its Wheelchair, LDRL, Women’s and Girls Rugby League teams throughout the off-season.
The RFL’s Rugby League Survival Fund forms part of the wider Sport England support package and it is a direct response to the lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ultimately, this package supports the survival of integral community organisations, particularly Hull FC’s Wheelchair, LDRL, Women’s and Girls Rugby League teams, whose players are all drafted in from the local community.
Hull FC Wheelchair team took part in their first-ever Betfred Wheelchair Super League tournament, whilst its home venue, the Allam Sports Centre at the University of Hull, hosted the Wheelchair Challenge Cup Final between Leeds Rhinos and Catalans Dragons which was shown live on the BBC.
The Hull FC Learning Disability Super League has seen growth. After a successful launch in 2021, Hull have seen participation figure double with over 30 players registered to the team.
The LDSL team have competed in a handful of tournaments which have been held across the nation this year, whilst they also had the chance to play on the pitch at St James’ Park at this year’s Magic Weekend.
Meanwhile, huge developments have taken place with Hull FC’s Girls teams, with both the Under 14s and Under 16s winning their league titles, respectively, as the club strives to forge a development programme towards Women’s Rugby League for local girls with a passion for playing rugby league.
Head of the Hull FC Community Foundation James Price said: “This will help the club and the Community Foundation become financially stable and sustainable throughout the winter, whilst providing some vital support for our teams that harbour some of our community’s most passionate rugby league players.
“We have made some outstanding developments with our girls rugby league programme this year. Our commitment to growing the LDSL team has yielded great success, and the Wheelchair team has reached new boundaries in 2022, so the Winter Grant from the RFL is only going to help these teams get into an even stronger position for 2023.
