The RFL’s 2026 Women’s and Junior Wheelchair international pathway programme will conclude in York on Saturday (29 August) with players from across the country coming together for the third and final event of the season.
The festival at York Sport Centre, will provide another opportunity for junior and women players to learn and develop their skills in a positive, supportive national pathway environment.
Coaches will lead a series of designed practices focused on individual skills and execution, game understanding and decision-making, communication with teammates and applying skills in realistic game situations.
The session will encourage players to challenge themselves, learn from coaches and one another, and continue their development as Wheelchair Rugby League players. The programme also gives emerging coaches, match officials and support staff valuable experience within a national pathway setting.
Saturday’s event follows the opening festival in Nottingham in May and exhibition matches staged ahead of the Betfred Wheelchair Challenge Cup Final in Wigan in July.
The 2026 programme was created in response to player feedback calling for more dedicated playing opportunities, an inclusive and supportive environment and a visible route towards future international competition. It supports the RFL’s ambition to create England representative opportunities for women and junior players.
The event will be supported by Tom Simms of Leigh Leopards, Michael Collins of Leeds Rhinos, Jess Bunyard, founder of Coaching Care Creativity, Vicky Brooks of Wakefield Trinity, Stacey Roulson of Sheffield Eagles and Sandie Cater-Wright and Richard Wright of Bradford Bulls, alongside match officials Karli Wilkinson, Karl Shepherd and Sam Scaife.
