Leigh Leopards’ LDRL Team: Making Rugby League inclusive for all

Leigh Leopards’ LDRL Team: Making Rugby League inclusive for all

In Leigh, community is everything. Located in the heart of the North West, the town has a rich industrial history and a deep-rooted culture of togetherness, resilience and local pride. At the centre of this community spirit is Rugby League, a sport that has been part of the town’s identity for generations.

For many in Leigh, Rugby League is more than just a game – it is something that brings the whole town together. The local professional team, the Leigh Leopards, is a symbol of this. Whether people are cheering from the stands or playing at grassroots level, rugby is a powerful force for inclusion and belonging.

It’s this same belief in bringing people together that led to the creation of the Learning Disability Rugby League (LDRL) team - an initiative that gives individuals with learning disabilities the chance to experience the joy of rugby in a safe, supportive and inclusive way.

What is Learning Disability Rugby League (LDRL)?

LDRL is a specially adapted, non-contact version of Rugby League designed for people with learning disabilities. Unlike professional rugby, there’s no tackling - instead, players wear tags that can be pulled off by an opponent to stop the play.

Other key adaptations include:

• On-field support: Coaches and facilitators can be on the field to assist players when needed.

• Flexible scoring: Players simply need to cross the try line to score, making it accessible for those with different physical abilities.

• Simplified gameplay: The focus is on having fun rather than competition, so no official scores are kept.

The goal of LDRL isn’t just about playing rugby – it is about building confidence, making friends and feeling part of a team.

Creating opportunities for all

Leigh Leopards launched their LDRL team as part of their commitment to inclusivity. The club already runs programmes like the A Team Hub, which supports children and families with neurodevelopmental conditions, so forming an LDRL team was a natural next step. Today, the team has grown into two squads – a junior team of 13 players aged 8 to 16 and a senior team of 15 players aged 16+. Players train regularly, learning the skills of the game in a positive and welcoming environment. More importantly, they develop a sense of belonging.

As one parent beautifully describes:

The LDRL provides a safe space and a community for Ellie-May. The opportunities that it offers members and parents/carers are life affirming. We have been fortunate to become part of an extended family.

For 22-year-old Gareth Jones, being part of the Leigh Leopards LDRL team has been life-changing. As his mother Debbie shares, “Gareth has Down’s Syndrome and autism;

he also has severe learning difficulties, sensory processing disorder, and speech and language difficulties. However, none of his additional needs have prevented Gareth or disadvantaged him from playing a sport that he loves.”

Gareth’s passion for rugby has been an integral part of his journey. “Gareth loved every moment of the evening when he first joined. He was made to feel like a star by the coaches and players. We were both buzzing in the car going home; I was so excited for Gareth,” Debbie recalls. This excitement only grew as the team expanded, with Gareth attending training sessions regularly. “His Monday night training sessions have become an important and integral part of his life.”

A special place in the community

The LDRL team is embraced by Leopards fans and the wider community. During match days at the Leigh Sports Village, the team plays in halftime showcases, receiving enthusiastic applause from the crowd. This strong support highlights how much Leigh values inclusivity and celebrating every individual’s achievements.

Many of the players also take part in community activities beyond rugby, such as volunteering at the A Team Hub or joining the Leopards’ social touch rugby sessions— helping them stay active, meet new people, and be part of something bigger.

Unforgettable Moments

Since forming, the team has had some truly memorable experiences. From playing in their first festival at Warrington to being part of the Magic Weekend showcase in Newcastle, they have enjoyed opportunities once thought impossible.

One of the most emotional moments came at the end of last season, when the LDRL team was invited onto the pitch with Leigh Leopards’ first team and Ladies team. In front of a packed North Stand, they sang and banged the drum with the crowd—a moment of pure joy and unity that captured the heart of what rugby means in Leigh.

More than just a game

In Leigh, Rugby League isn’t just a sport—it’s part of who they are as a community. The LDRL team embodies this spirit by ensuring everyone has the chance to take part.

Through training, players develop important life skills such as:

• Physical well-being –Learning about staying active and healthy.

• Mental well-being –Workshops on mindfulness and confidence-building.

• Teamwork and social skills – Making friends and learning to work together.

Upcoming events – get involved!

For those wanting to see the team in action, there are plenty of opportunities to show support:

• April 19 – LDRL Showcase Game at Leigh Sports Village (Inclusion Round for World Autism Month)

• May 31 – Regional festival at Golborne Parkside

• June-September – Additional regional festivals

• October – National LDRL Festival

By launching their LDRL team, Leigh Leopards have made it clear that Rugby League is for everyone—and that in Leigh, everyone belongs.

This isn’t just about rugby; it’s about creating opportunities, breaking barriers, and celebrating every individual’s potential.