Kicking off the 2011/2012 season on Saturday 8 October the NSW Wheelchair Rugby League (NSWWRL) are pleased to welcome the support of the National Rugby League. Teams are sponsored by the Canberra Raiders; Canterbury Bulldogs; Newcastle Knights; Penrith Panthers; Parramatta Eels and the Sydney Roosters.

With the NRL 2011 season all over the NSWWRL season has only just begun with players putting their heart and souls into playing for their team and the goal of becoming the 2011/2012 NSWWRL Champions. After an electric start to the season we have already seen some big hits, flick passes and some buzzer beater tries to launch what will be an exciting season of Wheelchair Rugby League.

With teams full of amputees, people with a disability, wheelchair users and able bodied players all is on the same playing level when in a wheelchair. President of the NSWWRL Joseph Chidiac said “Our athletes get by on a never-give-up attitude, they fight and scrap for every inch and the opening round of our Wheelchair Rugby League Season was an example of just that. I couldn’t be more proud of our athletes and the effort they showed.

The 2011/2012 NSW Wheelchair Rugby League shapes to be a memorable one.” In its second season the NSWWRL are also pleased to announce the inclusion of ambassador former NRL superstar Mathew Head. In the gladiatorial game of rugby league, Mathew Head is a real gentleman of the code. As an ambassador Mathew will leave a lasting impression on Wheelchair rugby league, as he did whilst playing for St. George Illawarra Dragons.

New South Wales Wheelchair Rugby League is honoured to name Mathew as its ambassador. The impact of Mathew’s advocacy in developing Wheelchair Rugby League and promoting our game will no doubt be a successful one. Mathew will inspire more boys and girls from NSW and beyond to follow their dreams and take up our great game. Mathew Head said ‘When I made my NRL debut with the St George Illawarra Dragons, I always knew rugby league would be a part of me forever.

I remember how lucky I felt to be living my dream and I knew that one day I wanted to be able to give back to the game, the fans and the NRL community as a whole. To now be involved with the inspirational sport of Wheel Chair Rugby League is something I am extremely proud and honoured to be a part of.” For more information on Wheelchair Rugby League and to support the people with a disability please visit www.nswwrl.com.au or cheer on the teams on Saturdays at Kevin Betts Stadium Ralph Place Mt Druitt between 1:30 and 3:30.

Photo Source: Rev William A Stewart 2011