A new West Cumbrian disability rugby team has held its first training session.
Workington Storm RLFC was set up by 17-year-old Jayden Blair, who said there was a lack of opportunities for people with disabilities to play sport in the area.
It held its first training session yesterday, Thursday March 27, at the Den on Mossbay Road.
Jayden said: “We are very proud to say how successful our first ever training session was.
“We had 14 players down in our first ever training night in awful conditions but everyone just adapted to it and enjoyed it for what it was.
“Training was very successful last night and the weather certainly didn’t dampen the moment as we all found it very fitting that Workington Storm RLFC’s first ever training session was played in storm-like conditions with strong winds and rain.
“I’m very proud of everyone who came down as all 14 lads just seemed to click together and all got on very well was amazing to see and if anyone watched our training last night they would assume we’ve been playing together for years.
“Everyone got involved and had a great laugh together.
“A huge thanks has to go to Workington Diamonds FC and more specifically Andy and Nichola Rush who have played a huge part and without them training last night would not have been possible.”
Jayden said the club was planning to enter teams into the LDRL (learning disability) league and PDRL (physical disability) league.
He added: “There is also a strong mental health side to all this as statistics show people with disabilities are more likely to struggle with mental illness and confidence.
“I want to help people grow their confidence together as a team and make new mates at the same time.
“Rugby league is often referred to as the people’s game and credited as the community game so I knew this step was essential in making rugby league available to everyone.”
For more information, visit the Workington Storm Facebook page.
Training sessions are held at The Den, on Mossbay Road, on Thursdays, from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.
