Widnes Vikings' first team have announced that they will play wearing odd socks in their opening Betfred Championship fixture against Barrow Raiders on Sunday for World Down Syndrome Day.
Thursday 21 March is World Down Syndrome Day and the internationally recognised way of showing support is by wearing odd socks, with the idea that this starts conversations by people asking why, and the reply is of course, to recognise World Down Syndrome Day.
After being granted permission by the RFL, Barrow Raiders have agreed to join Widnes Vikings in this great cause and will also be wearing odd socks on Sunday, as will the RFL match officials.
Around the world, people with Down Syndrome struggle to have their voices heard. It is difficult to gain good quality education and health care, they are denied the opportunity to earn their own money, and they are not allowed to make their own decisions.
With 1 in 1000 children born with Down Syndrome, it’s important that everyone comes together to support those with Down Syndrome and help create more accessible opportunities for those with disabilities.
On the initiative, Head of Widnes' Operations Chris Hamilton said:
"This is a great way for the club to demonstrate its inclusivity and to raise awareness about Down syndrome.
“By the lads wearing odd socks in the game, will help to raise the profile of this campaign and we hope lots of fans will also come in odd socks and have conversations with each other about World Down Syndrome Day.
“We are delighted that Barrow have also agreed to do it and this is another demonstration of the great spirit that exists within the game of rugby league.
“This is a great opportunity for everybody connected with Sunday’s game to show our support and we are delighted to play a small part in this brilliant cause.”
Catherine Wills, Player-Manager of the Vikings Women’s team wanted the ladies to show their support, by also wearing odd socks in their away game at Illingworth.
Head Coach Allan Coleman added: “When Chris mentioned this to me, we were only too pleased to buy into it and to show our support as a team.
“Doing things like this enables us to show support for so many different members of the Widnes community.”
Barrow Raiders chairman Steve Neale also commented: “We are proud to be supporting such a worthy cause alongside Widnes Vikings this Sunday.
“It is important to raise awareness of the impact of Down syndrome, and we thank the RFL for allowing us to work with Widnes to ensure the message is shared as widely as possible this weekend.”
Photo Credit: Widnes Vikings
