Thirty military veterans proudly took to the field at Halifax RUFC on Saturday 7th November for the annual Veterans Masters Rugby League Remembrance Festival, an occasion that once again demonstrated the powerful bond between rugby league, military service, friendship and remembrance.
The event brought together former members of the Armed Forces, united by their shared experiences, their love of rugby league and, most importantly, their commitment to honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
This year’s festival raised £712 for Halifax Armed Forces Veterans Association, taking the total raised for military charities since the fixture was established to an incredible £6,860.83.
A Time to Remember
The most poignant moment of the afternoon came before kick-off, when players, officials, families and supporters stood shoulder to shoulder for a moving Remembrance ceremony.
The laying of wreaths, a Remembrance poem, the Last Post and the National Anthem provided a fitting tribute to those who served and those who never returned.
For many of the veterans present, the occasion was deeply personal, offering an opportunity to remember former colleagues, friends and comrades.
We Will Remember Them.
More Than Just Rugby League
While the rugby provided plenty of enjoyment, friendship and familiar military banter, the true value of the festival extended far beyond the playing field.
Masters Rugby League continues to provide former servicemen with an opportunity to remain active, reconnect with fellow veterans and maintain the unique camaraderie developed during their military careers.
For many, pulling on a rugby shirt alongside their military brothers brings back the teamwork, respect and sense of belonging that defined their time in uniform.
Almost £7,000 Raised for Military Charities
Since its establishment, the Veterans Masters Remembrance fixture has continued to combine the spirit of rugby league with a commitment to supporting the wider Armed Forces community.
With £712 raised at this year’s event, the cumulative fundraising total has now reached £6,860.83, all in support of military charities.
The achievement reflects the generosity of players, sponsors, volunteers, families and supporters who have contributed to the event over the years.
Beyond the financial contribution, the festival continues to raise awareness of the importance of supporting veterans and maintaining the friendships and connections that can make such a difference after military service.
A Message from one of the Organiser
Carl Abraham, Veterans Masters lead, said:
“Having served myself, I know first hand how important the friendships and bonds formed during military service are.
"This event has never been just about rugby league. It’s about bringing veterans together, supporting one another and ensuring we never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
"To see 30 veterans take to the field, representing different military backgrounds and generations, was something incredibly special.
"The respect shown during our Remembrance ceremony was a powerful reminder of why we organise this event every year.
"Once the formalities were over, the rugby started, the banter returned and, for a few hours, we were all back amongst our military brothers.
"That’s what makes Veterans Masters so special.
"To raise another £712 this year, taking our total charitable fundraising to £6,860.83 since we established the fixture, is something I’m immensely proud of.
"That money has gone towards supporting military charities and the fantastic work they do for those who have served.
"We may no longer wear the same uniforms, but the friendships, respect and values we shared during our service will always remain.
"Most importantly, we must never forget those who are no longer with us.
"We Will Remember Them.”
Thank You to Everyone Involved
The organisers would like to express their sincere appreciation to Halifax RUFC for once again hosting the festival and providing a fantastic welcome to everyone involved.
Special thanks also go to the event sponsors, match officials, volunteers, supporters and everyone who contributed towards the £712 raised.
Above all, recognition must go to the 30 veterans who proudly took to the field, many travelling considerable distances, to be part of this special occasion.
Their commitment, friendship and respect for one another continue to make this event a highlight of the Veterans Masters calendar.
Looking Ahead
The ambition is to continue developing the Veterans Masters Remembrance Festival, bringing more former servicemen together through rugby league while promoting friendship, physical and mental wellbeing, and continued support for the Armed Forces community.
With almost £7,000 already raised for military charities, the organisers hope to build on that achievement in the years ahead.
Because some bonds are never broken, some friendships last a lifetime, and some sacrifices must never be forgotten.
LEST WE FORGET.
More Than Just Rugby. United in Service. United in Remembrance.
