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Masters Rugby League returns to Blackpool to celebrate National Festival

Last Saturday (6 September), Blackpool Stanley Park played hosts to the 2025 Masters National Festival – which was another great success.

A total of 565 players (444 men and 121 women) descended upon Stanley Park at the weekend, including nine new faces who were trying out the sport for their very first time!

This fantastic event saw 49 clubs from across the country play across seven pitches, with plenty of comradery to show for it, including 18 players guesting for other teams in true Masters spirit!

To truly celebrate Masters Rugby League, this meant that there were numerous awards up for grabs on the day, including Men’s player and Women’s player, as well as Club, Ref and Moment of the Day – to recognise people for their exceptional efforts.

Men’s Player of the Day: Dave Livesley (Barrow)

Women’s Player of the Day: Amy Barrow (Thatto Heath Crusaders)

Club of the Day: Munster Stags

In total 22 referees (18 men & four women) took to the field to cover the games - and in recognition of their commitment, a roll honour of each ref:

Steve Allen, Andy Charlesworth (Boothtown), Paul Clarke (Catterick Crusaders/North East), Joanne Coates (Heysham Atoms), Allan Dunham (Hull Warriors), Dave Farrell (West Cumbria), Martin Fisher (Rebels/Wigan St Judes), Paul Foster (Chester Gladiators), Geoff Grieves Hogan (Carlisle), Craig Farnworth (Leyland Warriors), Fidelma Holland (Blackpool) Mark Jones (Chester Gladiators), Shaun McPoland (Barrow), Jason Myers (Leeds), Barry Nathan (Castleford), Simon Robinshaw (Doncaster Toll Bar), Matt Tenniswood (Guiseley), Martin Turner (Chester Gladiators), Paul Welham (Blackpool Scorpions), Victoria Winestein (Farnley Falcons), Ian Winstanley (Rylands), Louise Worswick (Golborne)

Ref of the Day (Cliff Tamou Award): Martin Fisher

Moment of the Day: Balazs Zsikai’s for his full length of the field interception try

WATCH how the full day unfolded HERE.

With special thanks from the RFL Development team to all the sponsors, external providers, charities and volunteers: