Rlwc 2021 Launches Legacy Programme
The Rugby League World Cup 2021 (RLWC2021) has announced its legacy programme, as well as a new partnership with Unicef UK, which becomes the official charity of the tournament.
The programme, ‘Inspired by 2021’, will comprise of three strands: volunteers, facilities and community engagement. According to organisers, the programme will look to use the tournament as a catalyst to develop the game of rugby league and engage with the widest possible audience.
England will host rugby league’s biggest international tournament in 2021 with the men’s, women’s and wheelchair World Cups staged together for first time.
The first ‘Inspired by 2021’ initiative to get underway is the International Development Programme, delivered in partnership with UK Sport and the Rugby League International Federation, a project designed to grow the game at all levels.
Jon Dutton, chief executive of the RLWC 2021 (pictured above alongside UK Sport’s Esther Britten), said: “Our ‘Inspired by 2021’ legacy programme will be far reaching as we aim to engage with people in different ways. Our aim is that the programme transcends the sport and acts as a springboard not only for rugby league but also for wider social benefit.
“The International Development Programme is an exciting first initiative to launch and I am confident it will have a great impact over the next three years and beyond.
“Our goal is to make this tournament the best ever Rugby League World Cup and this fantastic new platform is an ideal way of inspiring children and adults alike and helping to grow the sport globally.”
By working alongside the Rugby League International Federation and with the backing of UK Sport, the International Development Programme aims to build partnerships to target specific barriers to the sport’s growth in individual developing nations. A two-day workshop will then help the chosen nations to get an insight into RLWC 2021 by sharing knowledge around governance, developing the sport and building wider international relationships.
There will be a gradual roll out of each of the ‘Inspired by 2021’ programmes including the biggest volunteer workforce project the sport has ever had, and a funded community facility project, as well as cultural, heritage, public health, education and participation initiatives.
Speaking on the new partnership, Unicef UK chief operating officer Mark Devlin, added: “Sport has the unique ability to unite and inspire people, which is why our sporting partners are so important to us. They allow us to use the power of sport to shine a light on children’s rights and raise awareness about the challenges that children are facing in the UK and all around the world. We are incredibly proud to be the official charity partner of the Rugby League World Cup 2021 and looking forward to working closely with them to raise vital funds for Unicef’s work to help children right here in the UK and those in danger around the world.”
