We were delighted to welcome The Rugby League World Cup Trophies into school on Monday 3rd October 2022. The Men’s Cup Trophy, Women’s Cup Trophy and Wheelchair Cup Trophy took centre stage in our main school hall.
Our school rugby teams had the opportunity to see the Rugby League World Cup Trophies and find out a bit more about the Rugby League World Cup 2021 (RLWC2021), which will be held in England from 15th October to 19th November 2022.
“This is very important for our pupils as it allows them to witness first hand three prestigious trophies,” said Mr Gray, Teacher of PE. “The Men’s Rugby League World Cup Trophy is the second oldest world cup trophy in the world.”
Over the past year, the trophies have crisscrossed the country on tour, even visiting Buckingham Palace! They have completed over 200 visits, stopping off at the seventeen host towns and cities of which Preston is one. Preston is hosting the Men’s Welsh Rugby Team for the Rugby League World Cup 2021.
The Rugby League World Cup 2021 will be one of the most inclusive and diverse sporting events ever hosted in England, promoting the men’s, women’s and wheelchair competitions.
“It is a privilege for pupils from Archbishop Temple Church of England High School to be involved in promoting the Rugby League World Cup,” said Mr Gray. “We are hoping to be able to watch the Men’s Welsh Rugby Team train at UCLan Sports Arena.”
“I love playing rugby,” said Charlotte, in year 7. “Seeing the trophies in school is really exciting, it makes me want to go and watch a rugby match.”
“I really enjoy playing rugby at Archbishop Temple,” said Rose, in year 7. “It is really inspirational to see the Women’s World Cup and to see women play rugby.”
Ryan Allen, Rugby League Development Officer from Preston North End Community and Education Trust, has been working with pupils, promoting rugby league in school and giving pupils opportunities to play in rugby league teams and assist with training. Preston North End Community and Education Trust has supported the formation of a new rugby league club in the city, the Preston and South Ribble Rabbitohs, which now has an under 13’s team.
Preston North End Community and Education Trust is working alongside Preston City Council, the Rugby Football League and the University of Central Lancashire to develop participation and interest in rugby league ahead of the Rugby League World Cup.
Many thanks to Ryan Allen, Candice Lancaster from Preston City Council and Mr Gray for giving our pupils this once in a lifetime opportunity.
For more information about the Rugby League World Cup 2021, go to this website.
Email ryan@pne.com to find out more about Preston North End Community and Education Trust's Rugby League delivery.
All photographs courtesy of Michael Porter Photography.
