Rugby League Fact file

Rugby League Fact File (Resource 6)

INDEX

1 General Equality and Diversity: 2 - 1.1 Definitions - 1.2 Important Rugby League programmes - RESPECT &Tackle IT! - 1.3 interview with Steve McNamara Rugby League coach - 1.4 Interview with Nigel Wood, RFL CEO - 1.5 Did you know? 2. Gender: - 2.1 Definitions - 2.2 Women’s participation in Rugby League - 2.3 Interview with Sarah Bennison – Match Official - 2.4 Interview with Martina – Rugby League fan - 2.5 Did you know? 3. Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) - 3.1 Definitions - 3.2 BME participation in Rugby League - 3.3 Interview with Anthony Sullivan – Rugby League legend and former player and coach - 3.4 Did you know? 4. Disability - 4.1 Definitions - 4.2 Disability participation in Rugby League - 4.3 Interview with Ryan Owen – Rugby League player - 4.4 Interview with Gina Smallbridge, England League team - 4.5 Did you know? 5. Religion and Faith - 5.1 Definitions and possible barriers to participation - 5.2 Religion, faith and Rugby League activities - 5.3 Interview with David Solomona - 5.4 Did you know? 6. Age - 6.1 Definitions - 6.2 Rugby League for all ages - 6.3 Interview with Ramsden family – 3 generations of fans - 6.4 Interview with Phil Bentham – Match Official - 6.5 Did you know? 7. Sexual Orientation - 7.1 Definitions - 7.2 Lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) initiatives in Rugby League - 7.3 Interview with Mitch Stringer – Player Sheffield Eagles - 7.4 Did you know?

1. GENERAL

1.1 Definitions: Diversity

Recognising, valuing and respecting the uniqueness of each individual. Diversity includes both visible and non-visible differences i.e. gender, race and sexual orientation protected by anti-discrimination legislation. It also includes difference based on size, intellect, class etc. not covered by legislation.

Equal Opportunities

It is about the law and how it is applied in addressing barriers which individuals might face in accessing training, employment and access to services. Ensuring training, employment practices and access to services are fair and free from discrimination and harassment.

Equality

Is the state of being equal – treating individuals equally, which does not necessarily mean treating them the same. In some cases the need for equality may require unequal effort to ensure the principle of equality is achieved.

Direct Discrimination

To treat one particular group of people less or more favourably than others because of one or more characteristic; gender, gender identity, race, disability, sexual orientation, age, faith, pregnancy, maternity or other visible or non-visible difference.

Prejudice

Pre-judging someone. Usually based on negative, irrational feelings and attitudes and opinions that some people have about `others’.

Stereotyping

Grouping or labelling people because they are members of a particular visible group and assuming that they have particular traits that are considered to be characteristic of that group.

1.2 Important Rugby League programmes In order to ensure we live up to the values of our game: passionate, inclusive, uncompromising family game Rugby League has developed and promotes two key programmes:

• 1.2 i) RESPECT

Code of conduct for the that upholds the values of our sport and ensures that high standards of behaviour are maintained at all times from the entire Rugby League family. In order to uphold these values participants in the game – players, parents, coaches, match officials other volunteers or administrators of all ages should: • Discourage unsportsmanlike behaviour, foul or illegal play or acts of violence both on or off the field • Respect the rights dignity and worth of every person whatever their gender, race, age, disability, religious beliefs, sexual orientation or other visible or non-visible difference • Accept the moral and legal responsibility to implement procedures to provide a duty of care to children and vulnerable adults, safeguard their wellbeing and protect from abuse and poor practice • Condemn the use of recreational and performance enhancing drugs and doping practices as they compromise health of players and are contrary to fair play. Breaches of the code of practice may result in penalties up to an including fine, loss of team match points and suspension.

For more information visit the website http://www.therfl.co.uk/~therflc/clientdocs/Respect%20Brochure.pdf

Before every game the following RESPECT message is played:

“Rugby League is a family game. Please respect everyone involved including match officials, coaches, players and spectators. Bad language harassment or aggressive behaviour will not be tolerated”

• 1.2 ii) Tackle IT!

A comprehensive national programme to tackle discrimination, prejudice and abuse throughout the game across the six main equality strands: gender, race, disability, faith, age and sexual orientation. In addition Tackle IT! celebrates the diversity within our sport. The programme will be fully launched for the 2013 season and comprises the following:

 Match day text line service at all professional clubs in Super League, Championship and Championship One. If anyone hears or sees any unacceptable language or behaviour they can text the information directly to the Ground Safety Officer who will then be able to determine the best response  Suite of posters celebrating the diversity within our sport  DVD highlighting the Tackle IT! message  Tackle IT! Educational resources pack for clubs and schools  Series of guidance for clubs, the first being: ‘Guidance for Rugby League Clubs – Tackling Anti-Gay (homophobic) Abuse and Behaviour’. The second guidance for clubs which will be available in 2013 is around disability inclusion  Series of research projects providing insights and recommendations regarding overcoming barriers to participation. To date this includes Asian Muslim young people and LGBT young people.

To access more information and to download the Tackle IT! DVD and posters visit; http://www.therfl.co.uk/equitydiversity/tackle-it

Other General Equality initiatives:

• RFL has achieved the intermediate level of the Sport England ‘Equality Standard – a Framework for Sport’ and RFL is widely acknowledged as a leading Governing body and sport in terms of equality and diversity. • Mandatory one day equality and diversity training for all RFL staff with free places available to club staff and others involved in the game. Training has also been provided for the Ground Safety Officers, Match Commissioners and there are plans to introduce player and club training courses. • Annual free Equality and Diversity Conference for club staff offering key note speakers and interactive workshops featuring examples of good practice across the game. • Equality and Diversity resources and information on the RFL website which are widely available to download. • Quarterly In League Together newsletter featuring and celebrating Equality and Diversity initiatives across the game.

1.3 Interview with RFL England Coach Steve McNamara

Why is it important for a successful team to be inclusive and welcoming to all?

I think outstanding teams regardless of whether they are the England Rugby League team, a community team or members of the Red Hall staff require teams of outstanding individuals. To be the very best we can be in all aspects of Rugby League we need to not only attract the best people but also retain the best people. For that to happen we need a positive working environment.

What do you mean by positive working environment?

People are at the heart and soul of our game and whatever role they play they deserve a safe, respectful and positive environment so we can fully enjoy all the fruits that our sport brings to everybody.

What do you think are the key messages of the Tackle IT! programme?

Tackle IT! is a great project, it’s got three main aims; the first one is zero tolerance to any abuse and discrimination, the second one is to report an unacceptable language or behaviour in whatever environment you are working in and the third is to really celebrate the diversity which we have within the ranks of Rugby League

1.4 Interview with RFL CEO Nigel Wood

Q Why is it important to Rugby League to be welcoming to everybody?

Rugby League has a long and proud history of being inclusive to all sections of society and we place no apology for ensuring our game is free from abuse and free from discrimination. We would urge everyone to support that stance and report anyone they hear engaging in antisocial behaviour or abusive behaviour and not tolerate it.

Why is it important to have this zero tolerance approach?

Because we want the sport to be as welcoming as it possibly can be, we’ve got a great spectacle on the field and in the main our terraces and stands are very welcoming for all sections of society and we are determined to keep it that way.

How can the fans and people watching the game go about reporting this behaviour?

Nobody should accept abuse or discriminatory behaviour of any regard whatsoever whether it is reporting matters to stewards at stadium or using the Tackle IT! text they should not hesitate to ensure this kind of behaviour is stamped out.

1.5 Did you know?

1895 - On 29th August 1895, Rugby League was formed when 21 clubs based in the north of England broke away from English ’s governing body and formed their own competition. The breakaway was caused by the northern clubs desire to pay players which was outlawed at the time in Rugby Union.

1906 - Thirteen-a-side introduced alongside the game’s distinctive play-the-ball movement.

1954 - Rugby League stages its first ever World Cup tournament.

1972 - Introduction of the six tackle rule plus timekeepers with hooter / siren at the end of the game.

1974 – First sport to allow shirt sponsorship.

1996 - Super League is introduced. The sport moves to a summer season. 1998 - The first sport to introduce salary caps.

2009 - The first sport to introduce Licences instead of an annual promotion and relegation.

2. Gender 2.1 Definitions:

Sex - Biological or physiological characteristics that define men or women

Gender – Socially constructed roles, behaviours and activities and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for men and women. These will vary across history, society, race and class hence we know that gender is not entirely a biological matter but influenced by societies expectations

Sexism: The systematic discrimination against one sex (usually by the other)

Transgender- Is a very broad term to include all sorts of trans people. It includes cross dressers, people with no or dual gender identity, transvestites, drag queens and kings and transsexual people

Transsexual: Transsexual people generally identify as a member of the opposite sex from a very early age. When young they may describe this as being `born in the wrong body’. At some time in their life, depending on personal and social circumstances, family support and their own determination, with medical support, they will begin living permanently in their preferred gender

Gender reassignment – process of changing or transitioning from one gender to another

Transphobia: The irrational fear and or hatred of transsexual / transgender people or people who do not conform to gender norms.

2.2 Women’s participation in Rugby League

 RFL staff women at the RFL feature at a senior level; Claire Morrow is an RFL Non- Executive Director, Sue Allan Financial Director, Sally Bolton, Director Special Projects and Emma Rosewarne Operations Director. • Opportunities to play The Women’s Rugby League Conference League consists of 28 Teams with over 550 players registered There are 34 teams playing in the Age Group of 12-16 with over 500 players registered. Over 200 girls teams participated in the 2010 Champion Schools Competition with 3000 girls from year 7 – 11 participating nationwide in the competition. • Girls summer rugby was launched at Giants on march 4th 2012 as part of the clubs International Women’s day event.  rugby The Number of women playing League For All Touch and Tag age 16+ is in excess of 3500 and increasing monthly with over 100 registered to play wheelchair . Women only (FTUK) is also available in many areas including Huddersfield, and Calderdale.  Women only coaching courses – in order to increase the number of women coaches in our game we are running women only coaching courses, the last women only course achieved exceptional results with a 100% pass rate and the majority scoring highly.  Playing – England squad – England women squad is coached by name of coach and the squad that won the two test series against France in July 2011 features women from the following clubs: , , Bradford Thunderbirds, Nottingham Outlaws, Copeland Wildcats and Hunslet Hawks. The women world cup will also be held in the UK in 2013  Cheerleading and dance –cheerleading is a major feature of Rugby League match days, many teams have both the performance squad on match day as well as a rapidly growing community dance programme.  International women’s day web based resource – we are developing a web based resource highlighting the roles women play across our sport; there are players, coaches, match officials, Senior RFL staff, club CEO’s, Ground safety officer, Rugby League presenter and volunteers to name but a few. The RFL website features their photos as well as a biography of their career and experiences of Rugby League. http://www.therfl.co.uk/equitydiversity/international_womens_day  RFL Transsexual and Transgender policy was adopted by the RFL in November 2011. RFL is also working to engage with the trans community and to produce a guidance for the RFL and clubs to ensure that trans people are welcomed in our sport and transphobia is tackled effectively.

2.3 Interview with Sarah Bennison - Match Official

Sarah Bennison is not just the first female to referee a Championship game she was also the first female to referee a full international game

This isn’t the usual route for women in Rugby League. Do you feel under double scrutiny being a woman and being a referee?

I have come across people who don’t like female referees in the game, people stuck in the old ways where they prefer a man in a man’s game but apart from that I don’t think for the majority, me being a women, is a problem they look at me as a referee and not anything else.

So which was the most important game you have refereed?

Up until recently the most important game was when I did my first Championship touchline judge then a few months ago the referee in charge of the game became ill during so at half time I had to go on and referee a championship game, so I was thrown in at the deep end and got round the game mostly on adrenalin. Then in July 2012 I became the first women to referee an international, Norway versus Germany.

How is it being a female referee in Rugby League?

One of the main things is that when I go out to referee a game and it’s the first time any of the guys have seen a female referee they look at me and say what do we call you? cos they’re used to calling the referee Sir, throughout the game. I tell them you can call me Sarah or you can call me ref but throughout the game they probably call me Sir and I’m not going to get offended by that. The majority of the players are really good, they respect me and listen to what I say and won’t argue but I must admit you do sometimes have heated games which almost come to a fight but I think being a woman referee does sometime help to calm things down.

What about the fans?

The reaction varies I think, I must admit during a game I don’t hear what the fans say but I have been told stories and there are some fans who will abuse me just because I am a female referee but when it is reported the club and RFL deal with them.

Do you see yourself as a role model and a pioneer for women in Rugby League?

I have spoken to some of the women and girls coming through from the amateur game and they have said they see me as a role model so I guess I am, but I am still an up and coming referee myself and not there yet. I want to get as high as I can in refereeing so it might be a few years down the line cos I’m only young but hopefully one day I can be a referee in Super League. I guess as there are only a few of us in the game at the moment I am a role model.

2.4 Interview with Martina – Rugby League fan

What are the main barriers for the trans community participating in sport?

I think the main concern the trans community has about participating in sport or attending matches is whether it’s going to be a safe environment. In terms of playing and spectating the main concerns are around issues of changing rooms and also using toilet facilities at matches and in the clubs. If people are more aware of these issues it can help a trans person participate or attend a match.

Can you tell us about your experiences of Rugby League?

I’ve always had a passion for Rugby League and since I transitioned I have been to a few games at the KC stadium with my partner who is a big Hull FC fan. My partner suggested a couple of years ago that we should go to the final at Wembley and I’ve got to admit I did have reservations about attending, I’ve been to Hull games with average attendances of 12, 000 people and there would be at least 70,000 people at Wembley but I needn’t have worried as it was a fantastic environment to be in. The people around us were so friendly it was a great day for both of us and a great shared memory. Needless to say we’ve already booked our tickets for next year’s Challenge Cup final and I just can’t wait. Why do you think the Tackle IT! programme is important?

Going to Rugby League matches was something I didn’t think I would be able to carry on doing when I started transitioning, that’s why the Tackle IT! programme is so important it’s about educating people about the transgendered community and about transphobia and how to Tackle IT!, it’s about making the game of Rugby League truly inclusive and a welcoming environment whether you are going to be a supporter or a participant, player or official.

What would you say to other trans people who are thinking about getting involved in Rugby League?

I would urge anyone from the transgendered community and would like to go to a game but who have concerns, to give it a try. I’ve done it, I had those fears about going too but I found it a very supportive environment. If you do encounter any issues or problems, you can report it to a steward at a match, use the Tackle IT! lines or report it to the RFL who are taking this issue seriously and will take steps to deal with any transphobia . Please give it a go I did and I will never regret doing this it’ been a fantastic experience and helped me with my confidence in general.

2.4 Did you know?

i. Barbara Close of Fulham was appointed a female Chairperson of a professional sports club in 1984. ii. Kath Hetherington became the first female president of a professional sport National Governing Body in 1995.

iii. Vivienne Gleave was the first female physio at a professional sports club in the 1980s.

iv. At present there are 149 qualified female coaches within the game and 57 active female match officials within the game.

v. In 2012 of the 34 Super league, and Championship clubs, three have women Chief Executive including Widnes Vikings who in 2012 were promoted to the Super League.

vi. In October 2011 Gina Smallwood became the first women player to represent England in international against France, which they won34-32.

3. Race 3.1 Definitions:

Race - Refers to a group of people defined by their race, colour, nationality (including citizenship) ethnic or national origins

Ethnicity - An ethnic group is a community of people who share cultural and/or physical characteristics including one or more of the following: history, political system, religion, language, geographical origin, traditions, myths, behaviours, foods, genetic similarities and physical features. Recently it has been used to describe people who are often a minority in the country in which they live.

Racism – The total effect of racial discrimination caused deliberately by individuals, groups or organisations. A belief that race accounts for differences in human character and ability and that a particular race is superior to others. 3.2 Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) participation in Rugby League

• BME coaching initiative

In May 2009 the RFL implemented a positive action initiative to address the significant underrepresentation of BME coaches by providing a BME coaching course, following the previously successful women only coaching courses. One of the participants, Starr Zaman has since gone on to complete his level two coaching course, to deliver Rugby League sessions at Mosque, to working with in their Connecting Communities initiative and is also now a qualified RFL Coach educator. A second course, partly funded by Sporting Equals, an organisation promoting sporting and fitness opportunities to BME communities, was delivered in 2010 and there is additional funding to provide a BME level two course once there is sufficient demand

• BME action research project

30 Asian Muslim young people from Leeds, Bradford, Huddersfield and took part in this project to gain a better understanding of their perceptions and experiences of Rugby League and to develop some recommendations for our sport on how to reach and engage with Asian Muslim communities more effectively. The young people attended a workshop then experienced the World Club Challenge Match at Elland Road (Leeds Rhinos vs ) this was followed by a feedback session and Rugby League skills taster session in separate male and female groups.

Some of the recommendations that emerged from the research were:

• Identify and target schools with a high BME population, especially those near Rugby League stadia that may not have previously been offered opportunities to get involved in Rugby League • Bring Rugby League to the local communities and attend events such as Mela’s and Eid celebrations • Encourage BME communities to use stadia facilities for community meetings, exercise classes, parties, weddings and festivals, use of gym facilities not just about coming to watch a game • Promote the variety of opportunities to get involved in Rugby League either in a paid or volunteering role for the national Governing body or for clubs, playing, coaching ,officiating, hospitality, media, event management, IT and websites, commercial and marketing and security • Identify and promote more BME role models at all levels of the game, not just Super League.

3.4 Interview with Anthony Sullivan – Former player and coach

Your dad was one of the first black players to represent a British team and the first captain. How proud was he to have achieved that and what did it mean for you growing up?

For my father it was one of the highlights of his career he was a proud British man and proud to captain his country and take them on to that success. I am not sure he was aware at the time of the impact of being the first black captain of a British sporting team but it been something I’ve picked up on and am really proud of that fact.

Did you ever encounter any racism in your career as a black athlete?

Not really I think you experience the odd comment and that generally from someone who is very ignorant but one of the heartening things about that is that you also hear the comments from other people in the crowd telling them to be quiet and to shut up. I have had far more positive experiences as an athlete in general as ones that have impacted because of our colour.

Why do you think it’s important that Rugby League is open to people of all backgrounds?

I think its hugely important for our sport, to access and reach potential players from all backgrounds particularly in a sport that is uncompromising in the way it’s played on the field. You also see how inclusive Rugby League has been in the past and continues to be with all types of people playing, the sport is available to everyone so come along and enjoy.

3.5 Did you know:

 1912 - Lucius Banks, an African-American GI, signs as the first black professional rugby player in Britain, for Hunslet RL, scoring a try on his debut.

 1935 - stand-off George Bennett represents Wales, becoming the first Black British international RL player. Bennett scored over 100 tries in 232 games for Wigan.

 1937 - Jimmy Cumberbatch, from the Manchester club Broughton Rangers, becomes the first Black player to represent England, scoring 2 tries on debut against France.

 1947 - Barrow's Welsh playmaker Roy Francis becomes the first Black Briton to play for the Great Britain team.

 1951 - Leeds-born Cec Thompson becomes first Black Englishman to play for Great Britain.

 1954 – Billy Boston becomes the first black Great Britain player selected for an overseas tour.

 1954 - Roy Francis becomes Coach at Hull - the first Black Briton to coach a professional sports team in the UK and in 1956 Francis coaches Hull to become League Champions.

 1972 - becomes the first black Captain of a British field sports team when he is appointed to lead Great Britain in the World Cup. His son Anthony also represented Great Britain in the 1990s.

 1987 - becomes Great Britain Captain, a position he held until his retirement from international rugby in 1992. His career includes 34 Great Britain caps, and made a career total of 516 appearances, scoring 416 tries.

 1992 - -born winger Martin Offiah scores 10 tries in a match for Wigan against Leeds.

 1995 - Ellery Hanley becomes the GB Coach - the first black Manager of a British international team in any major sport.

 1995 - Ikram Butt, a Yorkshire-born Muslim of Pakistani ancestry, becomes the first British Asian to represent England in a major field sport (and is still the only British Asian to have represented England in a footballing code).

 2009 - Jaroslaw 'Jerry' Obuchowski becomes the first 'new Accession' Polish-born player to sign professional when he joins London Skolars.

4. Disability 4.1 Definitions of disability – medical v social model of disability

The medical model of disability views disability as a ‘problem’ that belongs to the disabled individual. It is not seen as an issue to concern anyone other than the individual affected. For example, if a wheelchair using supporter is unable to get to the viewing area because of some steps, the medical model would suggest that this is because of the wheelchair, rather than the steps.

The social model of disability, in contrast, would see the steps as the disabling barrier. This model draws on the idea that it is society that disables people, through designing everything to meet the needs of the majority of people who are not disabled. There is a recognition within the social model that there is a great deal that society can do to reduce, and ultimately remove, some of these disabling barriers, and that this task is the responsibility of society, rather than the disabled person.

4.2 Disability participation in Rugby League

• Wheelchair Rugby League - Developed in France back in 2000, Wheelchair Rugby League was introduced to our shores back in 2005.The game 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 all players compete on level playing field which is created by the use of wheelchairs and some slight adaptations of the rules of Rugby League. A brief overview of the game includes:

 There are five players on each side  The object of the game is to score tries  Conversions are scored by punching the ball over the mini-posts from a tee  Tackles are made in the same way as Tag Rugby by pulling off the attached tag  Five tackles are followed by the handing over of possession  Offside, knock-on and in-touch apply just like in the full version of the game

England Wheelchair Rugby League were been crowned World Champions after defeating hosts 44-12 in the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup Final today (Monday 17 November) at Mount Druitt, Sydney. In 2011 In October 2011 Gina Smallwood became the first women wheelchair Rugby League player to represent England in international against France, which they won34-32. The England squad will be defending their title during the 2013 World Cup which will be held in the UK

• Audio commentary – RFL matches and increasingly at clubs

Since 2009 the RFL has offered audio commentary/ audio description for blind and visually impaired spectators at all our centrally organized matches. With the support of Harvey Wiles (pictured above at Wembley) and the RNIB the RFL trained 12 volunteers to become audio commentators as well as purchasing the equipment and headphones that allows spectators to listen to the commentary anywhere in the stadium. • In partnership between the Facilities Trust, RFL and Level Playing Field we have embarked on an ambitious project to undertake a full access audit of all our Super League, Championship and Championship One clubs beginning in 2013. The audit will include a full facilities audit, a match day assessment, the development of an action plan to address any issues identified in the report and disability awareness training for club staff. • RFL coaching team has worked with disabled individuals to ensure they achieve their ambition of becoming a Rugby League coach, by adapting the course and assessment process to meet their needs and enable them to reach their full potential. Notable examples to date include; Lee Curry from Gateshead Thunder a deaf candidate who attended a BSL supported course, Ben Noble a blind candidate who now coaches in schools with the Sheffield Eagles coach and Luke Bryant, a wheelchair user following a rugby accident who completed his level 1 in 2011 • Gateshead Thunder employed a community coach who is profoundly deaf in 2011 and since then the club has undergone a transformation becoming the first club to sign up to the National Deaf Children’s Society deaf awareness `me2 project’. They have seen a range of positive changes as a result of this commitment; a significant rise in deaf participants, both adult and child, a volunteer disabled supporters liaison officer, who as a signer, is able to welcome and support deaf spectators, Gateshead Thunder staff have undertaken BSL courses, they have made various adaptations to ensure the facilities meet the needs of their deaf employee and led a workshop on deaf awareness as the 2012 Club Equality and Diversity Conference. • ‘Disability Guidance for Clubs’ will be available as an online resource in early 2013. The guidance comprises seven chapters; blind and partially sighted, deaf and hard of hearing, mobility needs, learning disabilities, learning needs, mental health, chronic and long term illness. Each section features disability specific information, adapting playing and coaching, club support, a Rugby League case study and where to go for further information.

4.3 Interview with Ryan Owens – former player and now touch rugby player

Q As a deaf coach what does it mean to you to be involved in Rugby League?

It has meant a lot to me getting involved with kids and learning new skills and sharing my experiences with young kids? Most of all it’s about getting new people involved in the sport.

Q The Tackle IT! programme is all about making everyone welcome how did you feel when you got involved in the sport?

I was nervous when I first got involved in Rugby League but everyone made me very welcome and accepted my disability. It gave me a chance to meet new people, make new friends and they all helped me get through. Rugby League welcomes everyone into the game because it’s like a big family.

What are your ambitions for Rugby League?

Getting involved coaching Rugby League, and getting more children and adults with a disability into the game by sharing my experiences with them, I want them all to have the opportunities I had in Rugby League.

4.4 Interview with Gina Smallbridge - England Wheelchair Rugby League team

What do you enjoy about wheelchair Rugby League?

The main thing for me is that I used to play Rugby League when I was younger so to be able to get involved in the sport now as a disabled athlete now gives me a sense of achievement. I like playing the game, the fitness side of it and a sense of achievement to be able to carry on playing as a disabled athlete.

As a disabled athlete how important is it for you to be able to compete in sports?

Absolutely essential really, I wouldn’t like to be a person who is disabled and be told no I can’t play a sport, I’ve always loved to play sports even as an able bodied person and to be able to continue playing sports is absolutely essential. If someone told me you can’t play I would be quite upset, sport is part of me, part of who I am.

How important is it for sport to make them as available to people from all backgrounds as possible?

There shouldn’t be any barriers whether you are disabled or able bodied, everyone should have a chance to play sports if that’s what they want to do.

How proud were you to be the first female to represent England (wheelchair Rugby League)

Very proud, as the first female ever to play wheelchair Rugby League I’ve made history, it’s something I can take away with me, something that no-one can take away from me. It gave me a great sense of achievement, and I was so proud of that and so were my family. I have put everything into sport and to get something out of it in the end is nice and it’s great to be a female involved in a man’s sport as well!

4.5 Did you know?

 In 2011 and 12 all Super League clubs dedicated one round of the season raising awareness about mental health difficulties, how to recognise the signs and what to do if you or a friend or colleague needs help. The also coincided with the RFL providing specialist support, counselling and training as part of their player welfare programme.  Great Britain Wheelchair Tag Rugby League team are the current World Cup holders having defeated Australia, the world cup hosts, 44-12 in the 2008 final. They will defend their title at the 2013 Wheelchair World Cup  Try Assist is the Rugby League Benevolent Fund which supports players whose lives are affected by serious injuries sustained while playing the game.  Barry McDermott played professional Rugby League despite the fact that he had lost an eye following an accident.  In 2011Matt King, who was paralysed from the neck down playing for Academy in 2004, has painted a second Christmas card using just a mouth stick to raise money for the RFL Benevolent Fund  Ben Noble became the RFL first blind coach when he qualified with his level 1 coaching award in 2011  RFL provide an annual BSL supported level 1 coaching course for deaf or hard of hearing candidates  Every year in September Leeds City Council hosts the national disability tag rugby festival with over 250 junior and young players with learning difficulties and other disabilities playing a festival and competition at Headingley stadium

5 Religion & Faith

5.1 Definition and overview of possible barriers to participation in sport

(Further information on each faith can be accessed from the Sporting Equals website: www.sportingequls.co.uk)

There are many definitions of religion in common usage;

"Religion is any specific system of belief about deity, often involving rituals, a code of ethics, and a philosophy of life." faith and religion applies to people who are practicing their religion.

Christian: 71%

• Participation on a Sunday, may cause difficulty to some Christians, as will events and games around the major Christian festivals at Christmas and Easter • Food at Games: Some Christians may not eat meat on Fridays and will give up some foods over Lent. Muslim: 3% • People who follow Islam will need to respect the issues of modesty which will reflect in a need for single sex provision and modest dress • Ramadan may cause difficulties in participation due to lower energy levels whilst fasting • Food at games: There are strict dietary requirements and food preparation restrictions i.e. Halal • Events and games around important festival dates i.e. Eid may cause difficulty.

Hinduism 1.14%

• Some Hindus may prefer the options for single sex provision, especially in sports where there may be physical contact • Food at games: most practicing Hindus will be strict vegetarians and the cow is a sacred animal • Games and events around important festivals such as Diwali. Judaism 0.53%

• Participation on the Sabbath may be difficult for Jewish people • Some Orthodox Jews may require single sex sessions to be made available • Food at games: Jews have strict guidelines concerning some aspects of their diet, particularly in relation to the consumption of meat and dairy products. Acceptable food is called kosher. Food that is not acceptable includes horses and pigs, shellfish and eels. Food must have been butchered and prepared in a kosher way • Games and events around important festivals such as Passover, Hanukah, Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah.

Sikh 0.68%

• May be difficult to play or attend matches on Sunday • People need to be aware of the sensitivity of removing religious clothing and accessories in order to play sport; Kesh (uncut hair and turban), Kangha (wooden comb), Katchera (cotton underwear), Kara (steel bracelet), and Kirpan (sword) • Food at games: Sikhs do not eat beef, but some will eat other meat. Eggs and fish may also be excluded • Games or events around festivals such as Diwali and Vaisakhi.

Buddhist 0.29% • Food at games: many Buddhists are vegetarian • Games or events around Buddhist festivals.

4.2 Religion, Faith and Rugby League

 At all RFL organised matches we provide a prayer / quiet room for hospitality staff that require the facility. In addition at all events we offer a vegetarian option which caters for the needs of both vegetarians and people from all faiths.

 Engaging with the Pakistani Muslim Communities in Huddersfield – in an effort to bring Rugby League to the Asian Muslim communities the RFL worked with the Pakistani Youth Forum to understand the barriers to participation. Young people from PYF took part in the research project and as a result experienced a match and a rugby skills taster session. This generated some interest in the sport and a couple of young people decided to undertake their level 1 coaching course and then deliver some Rugby League coaching sessions to children from their community. In addition the young women took part in a female only taster sessions run by a female coach from the Giants. This work culminated in over 100 members of the local community attending the game at the Galpharm stadium.

 Perceptions and Experiences of Rugby League: Young Asian Muslims – a research project involving young Asian Muslims from Bradford, Huddersfield, Oldham and Dewsbury. The first workshop was designed to understand their experiences of sport and of Rugby League this was followed by a question and answer session with a player as well as a guide to the rules of the game. A couple of weeks later the group attended a match, competed a match day questionnaire and then attended a follow up session to discuss their experiences at the game and look at how RFL can reach Asian Muslim people more effectively. The results and recommendations were written up in association with Sporting Equals and the finished document distributed throughout the game.

 As part of his work with Connecting Communities Starr Zaman has and continues to deliver Rugby League coaching sessions at Dewsbury Mosque alongside Dewsbury Celtic RLFC as an initiative to try to introduce Rugby League into the significant Asian Muslim community in Dewsbury. Starr also took part in the first RFL BME level 1 coaching course and is now an RFL coach educator.

 The BBC multi faith calendar is featured on the RFL website to assist RFL and club staff when planning activities or when trying to engage with faith communities. To access the calendar visit: http://www.bbc.co.uk/religion/tools/calendar/

4.3 Profile of David Solomona – former player

Is your faith important to you? My faith is really important to me because it’s an integral part of who I am, it’s the make-up of who I am, it’s the way my family has brought me up and it’s the way I want to portray myself to other people as well. I would say it’s probably the most important part of my life

Do you find it hard to maintain your faith in a professional sport, with issues such as playing on Sunday? There are difficulties in all life and all decisions we make but in saying that I believe that being a Christian in sport is no different than being a Christian in any other job

How do your team mates react to your faith? My team mates react to my faith differently some people are quite curious and some people are quite sceptical, everyone is different, such is life. A lot of people questions things that other people do so I am happy to answer any questions that some guys have about my faith. Why do you think it’s important that people from all backgrounds and faiths are welcomed into Rugby League? I think it’s really important everyone is welcomed into Rugby League regardless of their faith, religion, their skin colour, or other difference as it shows Rugby League embraces all aspects of life and all different people and all ages. I want every single person out there to be able to enjoy Rugby League, enjoy the atmosphere and environment. Rugby League has opened up a lot of doors to a lot of different people. I think these days we are starting to see all types of people playing the game a bit more and I think it’s thrilling to see.

Did you know?

1 Rugby League was the first to have a British Asian represent their country in any code when Ikram Butt played for England against Wales in 1995

2 Rugby League was first played professionally on a Sunday in 1966

3 Wilf Rosenberg a South African Jewish sporting hero scored a post-war record for Leeds when he scored 44 tries during the 1960-61 season, which culminated in an historic 25-10 triumph over Warrington in the Championship final at Bradford’s Odsal Stadium, on May 20, 1961

4 In 2009 -10 only 2% of the 760 tribunal cases concerning religion and belief were unsuccessful

5 Research shows that Muslims report and experience discrimination of a greater frequency and seriousness than any other religious groups

6 Jamie Jones Buchanan, Leeds Rhinos player is a committed Christian

7 Hull signed Cory Patterson an Australian Muslim who will be playing in the 2013 Super League

6. Age 6.1 Definitions

Ageism - prejudice or discrimination against, or in favour, of an age group. It is the process of systematic stereotyping and discrimination against people because of their age. This can apply to both older and young people.

6.2 Rugby League initiatives to involve people of all ages  Junior, youth and senior leagues - males and females can play youth and junior Rugby League, in fact from under sevens up to the under 11 age group teams are of mixed gender. The age groups at clubs run from under seven all the way up to under 18 and at present there are around 500 clubs offering the chance for young people to play the game.  Champion schools - The Carnegie Champion Schools tournament is the world’s biggest Rugby League knockout competition and is open to every secondary school in England, Wales and Scotland – the tournament was re-launched back in 2002 by the RFL and the English Schools Rugby League. The number of players per team is 9 aside (unlimited substitutions can be made) and they play on a pitch that is approximately half the size. In 2010 the Carnegie Champion Schools involved over 500 schools across the UK, including 1,572 boys’ teams and 216 girls’ teams. The year 7 boys final is played as the curtain raiser before the Challenge Cup final at Wembley.  Student Rugby League - organises all aspects of the game within Further and Higher Education. There are over one hundred College and University teams playing across the whole of the UK. Student Rugby League is a vital component of the RFL.  Touch rugby - Fast moving, evasive and involving minimal contact, Touch Rugby is a game played all over the world by men and women of all ages and skills levels. It is a simple but exciting game, Touch promotes the fundamental skills of running, handling and support play, whilst developing the basic principles of attack and defence without the fear of getting hurt!  Masters is strictly a social version of the sport and the rules are slightly modified to cater for the older player (over 35’s). There are no winners, no champions and no cup finals. Masters is about is the spirit of the game. In a team there can be players wearing different coloured shorts. Each colour represents as different age group and shows everyone how they can be tackled.

Short Colour Tackle

White & Black Players to tackle each other normally Shorts

Players must be physically stopped and held. On defence, red short players must make a Red Shorts definite two handed hold on the attacker

Gold Shorts Players to tackle or be tackled need to just touch, ie. No tackling

6.3 Profile of the Ramsden family – lifelong Bradford Bulls Fan (Interviewed at the England v Australia final in 2011)

Q How long have you all been Rugby League fans?

Grandchildren - 11 years 11 years, 7, 3 years

Father; since I was ten, Mother; since I was fourteen Grandfather - 33 years!

Q That’s an awful long time to be a fan of Rugby League what is it about the sport that you all enjoy so much?

Father - It’s an exciting sport it’s an honest sport it’s just something the kids enjoy there’s always a lot happening so they really enjoy it.

Grandfather - it’s a really fast and all the kids are encouraged to go along and watch it.

Q What is it about Rugby League that makes it so family friendly?

Mother - There’s never any bad atmosphere in the crowd it’s all friendly rivalry you feel completely safe to bring the kids.

Granddaughter – I just love it when they score and everyone jumps up and cheers (children all laughing.)

Q Have you ever been to any other sporting games as a family?

Children: No, not that we all go to - we prefer Rugby League. Father; I like other sports as well to be fair like football but it’s just Rugby League the kids tend to enjoy because there is a lot happening and it feels safer bringing them to Rugby League. I enjoy bringing the kids to live events.

Q How excited are you all at being at the England v Australia Four Nations Final?

Really excited – (laughing…) come on England!

Phil Bentham – Super League Match Official

Q Referees have an important role in challenging unacceptable behaviour and language on the pitch what do you do if you see or hear anything during a game?

We have a number of options during a game, if we hear someone swearing we would initially ask them to calm down, if it became abusive and directed at the referee we have the option of a penalty, sin bin or even a dismissal. What level of problem is there of unacceptable language by players on the pitch?

I think we have it pretty good in our sport, players know the limits and they know sometimes if they get a bit frustrated they might swear and so we will have a quiet word with them, but on the whole players in our sport are usually pretty good.

What do you think is the greatest problem around offensive language at a game if it’s not actually the players?

During the game obviously there are announcements to the crowds, but whilst I am refereeing the game I’m almost oblivious to what is going on in the crowd and what is being said. It’s the downtime when you are coming away from the game at half time or at the end of the match that you become aware of personal comments. I’ve been chased across the car park and some referees have had a pint thrown over them or been spat on when they go through the tunnel that to me is crossing the line! Fortunately these things don’t happen very often, they are isolated incidents but anything like that is totally unacceptable and it’s something we should look to dealing with better from club to club.

We want to increase the number of young referees coming into the game do you think the level of abuse of referees puts them off in both the community and professional game?

Yes we undoubtedly lose referees because of referee abuse. I was 27 when I started refereeing but to see young kids of 13 or 14, to have the bottle to go out there and referee a game, it’s unbelievable. We’ve got to make sure they are looked after, to educate the people watching that this is a child, they wouldn’t accept that level of abuse aimed at their child and just because he has the referees shirt on doesn’t mean you can say whatever you like to the referees. Education of these people is the way to go forward and also some sanctions, if people are found doing this and are banned from games, and are therefore not able to attend it affects their life style as well they will see their actions have consequences to them.

Did you know? 1. Overall 27,537 students took to the field which is up by 2,911 from last year and a staggering growth of 22,369 since 2002 2. Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 girls from Castleford High School won every age group in the 2010 champion schools competition 3. , at 39, will be the oldest player in Super League next season (2013) 4. 62 year old George Hunton became the oldest player to represent Great Britain against Australia in an international masters Rugby League competition

7. Sexual orientation 7.1 Definitions:

Sexual orientation - is defined by the gender of the person an individual is attracted to. Someone who is attracted exclusively or primarily to someone of the opposite gender is characterized as heterosexual or straight, someone who has a strong attraction to people of both gender is characterized as bisexual and someone primarily attracted to someone of the same gender is characterized as gay ; gay man or lesbian

Homophobia - an irrational hatred, intolerance, and fear of lesbian, gay and bisexual people and their culture

Heterosexism – It is the assumption that everyone is heterosexual and the belief that heterosexuality is "normal" and therefore that other sexual orientations are abnormal or deviant.

7.2 Lesbian, gay, bisexual (LGB) initiatives in Rugby League

• RFL were the first National Governing Body of sport to join the Stonewall Diversity Champions programme and are the only sports body to have been listed in the Stonewall top 100 employers for the three years (2010-12). In 2012 RFL were awarded the Stonewall Sport Award in recognition of the work we have undertaken around tackling homophobia and encouraging LGB inclusion in Rugby League. • Rainbow Forum is an e group set up to provide a forum to offer support, information and sharing experiences for LGBT people and straight allies involved with Rugby League. This includes RFL staff, players, coaches, match officials, club staff and volunteers and other support staff. http://www.therfl.co.uk/equitydiversity/support_networks • In March 2011 Sheffield Eagles became the first UK mainstream sports team to dedicate a game to anti homophobia and LGBT inclusion. The team wore a shirt emblazoned with the logo `Homophobia – Tackle IT!’. Sheffield Eagles received unanimous praise for their stance and received messages of support from the Government, LGBT organisations, Sport England, and gay individuals such as Ian Roberts, (gay Australian Rugby League player who came out at the height of his playing career in the 1990’s), Gareth Thomas, the first UK professional sports person to come out, other individuals and of course Sir Elton John sent a message of support to the Eagles. In 2012 Leeds Rhinos dedicated a game to LGB inclusion and London Broncos supported the Olympics by hosting a game in support of Pride House.

• Pride Games is a national LGBT sporting event that is held in Manchester every summer. Pride Games offers a range of sporting opportunities from competitions to try it sessions for a range of sports. Rugby League has had a significant presence and involvement over the past three years. • Pride events – various clubs have been involved in their local Pride events Oldham RLFC regularly gets involved with the kick homophobia out of Oldham events, Leeds Rhinos have taken part in the Leeds Pride March, Halifax RLFC ran a Rugby League taster session, Hull FC and KR have donated prizes to the Hull Pride events and Sheffield Eagles, in partnership with the RFL and Pride Sports, entered a Rugby League float at Manchester Pride. In 2012 RFL secured the support of 9 other NGB’s and LGBT sports groups to work together to enter a float at London World Pride.

• In Partnership with Pride Sport and Rugby League Ground Safety Officer the RFL produced `Guidance for Rugby League Clubs – Challenging Anti gay (homophobic) Abuse and Behaviour’. http://www.therfl.co.uk/equitydiversity/ilt_resources • In 2011 the RFL, Sheffield Eagles and all the UK Super League clubs signed up to the Government’s anti- homophobia and transphobia charter and in recognition for this ground-breaking commitment RFL and Super League CEO’s were invited to the Prime Ministers annual LGBT reception at Downing Street. http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/equalities/lgbt/sports-charter/

7.3 Profile on Mitch Stringer – Sheffield Eagles player

What did you think about the Sheffield Eagles anti-homophobia match? I was quite excited because I do a lot of work in schools and it gave me a chance to talk to them about these things, the other players were really excited too. In our division, we play in division 1, we don’t get much media attention so doing this was really good for our team and our players got so much attention and messages of support from people like Sir Elton john, Gareth Thomas and Ian Roberts. Look North, Calendar and Sky came down so it was really, really good.

Why do you think the decision to wear the kit was so ground-breaking? Because Rugby League was the first sport team to do something like this and so many people got involved and got excited about it, it went down really well, We were the first, hopefully more teams will get in the back of it, I know quite a few teams are going to take this on, it will be the Super League team Leeds Rhinos in 2012. I think it’s really good that we started it and everyone will remember and talk about when Sheffield Eagles wore the homophobia Tackle IT! shirt

Why are you so passionate about this issue and are an ambassador for the anti-homophobia message? I feel strongly about it because I believe in equal opportunities for everybody and it’s a strong message to give out to schools. In the schools the kids kind of look up to me a bit because I play rugby and the first question they ask about doing this sort of thing is: “are you gay?” and I say “no I am not gay” and they say “so why are you doing something like this?” then and I say “I believe in equal opportunities for everybody no matter what colour, creed or your beliefs”.

Why is it important that Rugby League is open to everyone? I think a sport like Rugby League needs all the help we can get at the minute we need as many people playing and supporting and the more people get involved the better it is and the stronger we get as a game.

7.4 Did you know?

i) The RFL is the only sports organisation in the 100 of the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index and we have been placed for the last three years!

ii) Sheffield Eagles were the first mainstream UK sports team to undertake a high visibility campaign to tackle homophobia in Rugby League and they received a message of support from Sir Elton John among others.

iii) In 1995 Ian Roberts an Australian Rugby League player came out whilst still playing professional Rugby League.

iv) Gareth Thomas was only the second professional UK sports person to “come out” as gay whilst still playing, the first being Justin Fashanu, who tragically committed suicide.

v) In 2012 Australian Matt Cecchin became the first top flight referee in Rugby League to `come out’ and he refereed the 2011 Four Nations Final at Elland Road between England and Australia.

vi) According to Stonewall research, 6 out of 10 lesbian and gay schoolchildren experience homophobic bullying.