York RLFC wins the Wheelchair Rugby League Club of the Year Award for 2023

York RLFC launched its Wheelchair side in December, following a successful bid for CreatedBy funding, which sought to build on the legacy of 2021 Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup that was won by England.

Having seen numerous players taking part in Wheelchair Rugby League for the first time, York RLFC finished second in the North Division in their debut season, with ambitions now set on featuring in the Championship next year.

York RLFC were delighted to host a Wheelchair Rugby League Festival at our Inclusion Day in May, while we have also staged training sessions at venues such as York College, the University of York and Harrogate High School.

With over 25 registered members in our squad and a number of dedicated volunteers to the code, Wheelchair Rugby League has grown substantially in York.

Our city has also been proud to host an England training camp and open training session this year, in partnership with York Sport, while England's World Cup-winning Head Coach Tom Coyd has hosted assemblies in York schools. 

York RLFC Foundation Delivery Manager Adam Prentis said: "We were delighted to be named as the Wheelchair Rugby League Club of the Year for 2023, with this award testament to the hard work of the volunteers and players that make up our Wheelchair side!

"Through Wheelchair Rugby League, we have seen players grow and become enthused by the sport in a short space of time, many of whom thought that team sport was not possible for them, whether due to age or ability. 

"The sport is quite unique in that it offers both disabled and non-disabled players the opportunity to compete both with and against each other. No matter what gender or age players are, everyone competes on a level playing field which is created by the use of wheelchairs and some slight adaptations of the rules of rugby league.

'The support and use of facilities over at York Sport through University of York has provided a high-quality venue from which to grow our reputation. I would like to pay a special thank you to not only York Sport, but the volunteers that are so passionate to drive things forward with the club.

"Our coaching team of Ryan Innes and Steve Spruyt have led the way in so many areas and for that they also deserve a special mention.

"Combined with the support from the Rugby Football League and the England Wheelchair Team, we are delighted with the progress made so far and we are determined to continue building on this success in 2024!"

York RLFC's Wheelchair Training Sessions on Monday evening are currently paused following the conclusion of the 2023 season.For more details of Wheelchair Rugby League sessions returning, please register your interest by contacting foundation@yorkrlfc.com or call the York RLFC Office on 01904 670880 and ask for the Foundation team.