Whitehaven kick off the new-look Championship season on Sunday with a home game against Sheffield Eagles.
It’s also going to be a special occasion for the club as nine former players who gained international honours at either GB senior level, GB U21/24 or England will receive their heritage certificates.
Vince Gribbin, Mark Beckwith, Vince Fox, Robert Purdham and the families of Dick Huddart, Milton Huddart, Bill Garratt and Arnold ‘Boxer’ Walker will be in attendance and receive their certificates during the half-time interval.
Jimmy Dalton’s son Tyrone will represent the Dalton family and be presented with his own certificate at the same time.
Former GB internationals John J McKeown, Phil Kitchin and Bill Holliday were presented with their heritage certificate last season along with the family of Marc Cox who represented the GB Academy side in 1997.
The club has also sent out a special request for ball boys and girls to be involved in the game at the Ortus Rec.
There are a small number of places available for new ball boys and ball girls on match days.
The club says: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young supporters to be part of the matchday experience and play an important role in keeping the game flowing.
“What does a ball boy/girl do? Ball boys and girls help ensure the quick return of the ball to the field of play, supporting the pace and professionalism of Rugby League fixtures.
“The minimum age is 12 and they should arrive on match days no later than 2.30pm.
“The responsibilities are: Quickly retrieve balls that go out of play (remain pitch-side at all times). Keep match balls clean and ready for use. Help maintain the flow of the game with replacement balls. Show professional conduct around players and officials.”
To apply, email [email protected]
Deadline is 2pm Thursday January 15.
