Preston celebrates 100 day countdown to Rugby League World Cup
The Rugby League World Cup begins its 100-day countdown today in the run-up to the tournament’s opening game on 15th October when the men’s England and Samoa teams face each other at St James’ Park in Newcastle.
Preston will play its part in the tournament as it will host the Welsh rugby league team, one of the World Cup’s strongest sides.
The Wales Rugby League Team features players in its elite squad that play in teams in the North West, including high-profile Super League sides. While the team is based in Preston, players will be training at the University of Central Lancashire’s (UCLan) Sports Arena and participating in community-based events.
As part of the tournament build-up, host partners Preston City Council and UCLan will launch a Spot the Ball competition for people to win tickets to the games hosted in the North West. The details of the competition will be launched week commencing 18th July. There will also be opportunities for community groups and sports clubs to get involved.
Councillor Jennifer Mein, Cabinet member for health and wellbeing, commented on the tournament countdown. She said, “We’re excited to host the Wales Rugby League Team in partnerships with UCLan and bring an element of the tournament to Preston. Our city has a great sporting history, and it was only natural that we should play our part in the Rugby League World Cup and welcome the Welsh team.
“Sport is such an important vehicle in helping people remain active and is vital in supporting mental health. It also helps build social cohesion and plays a role in boosting the economy. It’s one of the reasons why we wanted to be involved in the tournament and create a legacy that builds participation in the game.”
Dr Adrian Ibbetson, Director of Sport at UCLan, added, “We are delighted to be part of the Rugby League World Cup and to host the Welsh team at the University and in the city. We are proud to be involved in one of the most inclusive World Cup tournaments with the Men’s, Women’s and Wheelchair tournament all being delivered together.
Hosting the Welsh team has given us the opportunity to establish a pathway for talented students from Wales to come and study at the University as part of our scholarship programme.’
Full details of the tournament can be found at www.rlwc2021.com