On Sunday 22 March, The RFL proudly kicked off its 2026 Disability Inclusion Season with an official launch event held at Hull FC’s MKM Stadium.
Hosted by England Wheelchair Rugby League star Freya Levy, the event celebrated an exciting year for the disability inclusion season as the England International Wheelchair squad and the Physical Disability England Community Lions begin preparations for their 2026 World Cup campaigns, held in Australia later in the year.
A particularly significant milestone also celebrated at the event was the celebration of the 10-year anniversary of social impact in Rugby League from our proud partners at Community Integrated Care who play a pivotal role in the Learning Disability Super League: enabling dreams on the game’s biggest stages.
Representatives from the Betfred Wheelchair Super League (Rob Hawkins, Halifax Panthers. Luis Domingos, Sheffield Eagles. Lewis King London Roosters), and Physical Disability Rugby League (Matt Davies & Chris Young, York Knights. Matt Jackson & Jamie Barnett Lancashire) took to the stage to share exciting updates and opportunities for the season ahead.
Amongst the highlights, the stage welcomed PDRL England Community Lions Head Coach Michelle Melling and players Corey Davies and Nick Leigh to share their aspirations for the international journey “Road to Australia” alongside fundraising efforts supporting the trip with full support from RFL President Adam Hills MBE, an advocate for physical disability. Having been a mainstay of Physical Disability Rugby League since it was launched in 2018, playing for Warrington Wolves against Leeds Rhinos and representing Australia internationally in the inaugural PDRL World Cup in 2022.
The RFL’s President Adam Hills MBE said: “The Road to Australia is an incredible opportunity for the PDRL England Community Lions, not just to compete on the international stage and defend their title, but to highlight everything that makes Rugby League as a sport so special.
“I have experienced first-hand the commitment, talent, and spirit that it takes to not only play Physical Disability Rugby League but to represent the sport on an international level. I know that the England Community Lions will undoubtedly represent England, the sport, and its communities with pride.
“I wish the PDRL Community Lions the very best of luck on their Road to Australia.”
General Manager of England Wheelchair Rugby League, Martin Coyd, also looked ahead to the upcoming World Cup, offering insight into preparations and ambitions for the prestigious tournament ahead.
Following the launch, attendees moved into the stadium to take part in the pitch parade half-time activity during the Hull FC vs Leeds Rhinos Super League fixture; extending the visibility of the inclusion Season.
The 2026 Disability Inclusion Season builds on the strong foundations of previous years, continuing to grow participation, raise awareness and ensure that Rugby League remains a sport for all.
