Huddersfield Giants last night (Tuesday 26 March) became the latest professional Rugby League club – and the first in Super League – to hold a community iftar to mark the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
During Ramadan practising Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, breaking the fast at sunset with the iftar which involves eating dates then adjourning for prayers before the main meal is served.
Following similar events at Bradford Bulls (the second iftar at Odsal Stadium) and Sheffield Eagles (the first iftar at a Rugby League match) in recent days, Huddersfield Giants hosted guests from within Rugby League, including Salford Red Devils' Nene MacDonald and David Nofoaluma, and from across the local community.
RFL senior EDI partner, Ben Abberstein says: “With similar events taking place across Bradford, Huddersfield and Sheffield, those clubs are signalling their determination to connect with local communities more than ever. Rugby League clubs have always been at the heart of their local communities and this is building on that tradition.”
Former England Rugby League international Ikram Butt, Executive Director of the British Asian Rugby Association who was involved in organising the events at Bradford and Huddersfield, adds: “Clubs are embracing the beauty of diversity and experiencing the transformative power of Rugby League. Diverse audiences are coming together to learn, to foster understanding and to celebrate our shared values. Through the partnership between the clubs and the British Asian Rugby Association, we aim to amplify the voices of inclusivity and compassion, setting a powerful example for our community and beyond the try line.”
Huddersfield Giants club ambassador, Cllr Masood Ahmed, said: “As a proud ambassador of Huddersfield Giants, it is both an honour and a privilege to be involved in such a momentous occasion at our home. The iftar event, in collaboration with the British Asian Rugby Association, symbolises the power of unity and inclusivity. It’s a remarkable opportunity to bring together diverse communities in celebration of Ramadan.”
As part of the Huddersfield Giants’ event, Nene Macdonald and David Nofoaluma joined the Giants’ Esan Marsters for an audience Q&A session, during which they were asked about their individual starts to the season and the challenges professional athletes face during Ramadan. Muslim players have received Ramadan packs to support them through the holy month from Nujum Sports, set up in 2020 with the vision to see a world where Muslim athletes flourish and fulfil their potential.
