Leeds Metropolitan University
International
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Rugby in league with community
The cream of British Asian rugby league playing talent tackled more than just the opposition when they took on the England Lionhearts
at South Leeds Stadium on Sunday (2nd July 2006 3pm kick-off).
The match between a BARA (British Asian Rugby Association) select thirteen and the Lionhearts, a national representative side selected from the best
amateur players within summer rugby league, also provided a showcase of the sporting developments within the South Leeds and wider West Yorkshire
communities affected by the 7/7 bombing tragedy.
BARA was established by former Leeds and GB youth international Ikram Butt to encourage development and foster interest within the British Asian communities of both rugby league and rugby union. BARA aims to provide positive role models, break down cultural & religious barriers, promote community integration, personal development, healthy living and encouraging
participation in sport with a focus on rugby.
Butt explained: The tragic events of a year ago were borne out of the social problems associated with division, prejudice and a lack of mutual understanding. Through both codes of rugby and a number of other sports we
are
bringing people together and there was examples of the work undertaken with young people on the pitch in the two hours before the match kicked off at
3pm.
The match was a good competitive centrepiece between two exciting
sides and the whole occasion wouldnt have been possible without the support of Leeds City Council, Leeds Metropolitan University, the Youth Charter and
the RFL's Tackle It anti racism campaign.
Another vital partner has been the Hamara Healthy Living Centre in
Beeston just a touch kick away from the match venue. Hamara was the place where a number of the 7/7 bombers plotted their atrocities and they have played a leading role in building bridges over the past twelve months, added
Butt.
Geoff Thompson MBE, Executive Chairman of the Youth Charter, commented: This match has an added significance given the events of a year ago and its proximity to one of the locations associated with the attacks but it, more importantly, showed how sport can lead the way in setting examples of
teamwork across divides to create a more coherent and progressive community. The entertainment began at 12.30pm with everyone invited to join in the
fun both on the pitch and on the sidelines. Entry is £3 for adults with
children admitted free of charge.
Nick Evans, England Lionhearts Manager, said: We fully support the aims of BARA but it was a cracking showpiece match in the magnificent setting of the John Charles South Leeds Stadium. It was great to see the local communities in general and Rugby League fans everywhere turning out to support two excellent and developing teams.
For more information on BARA please visit www.bararugby.com. For more information on the Youth Charter please visit www.youthcharter.co.uk
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