Lifelong St Helens fans enjoyed ‘dream’ matchday roles when Rugby League’s social care partner, Community Integrated Care, worked with Saints Foundation at the club’s recent inclusion fixture against Castleford Tigers.
Following a surprise visit to Community Integrated Care’s Mill Point service by charity ambassador Jodie Cunningham, 10 devoted Saints fans took part in specially designed pre-match experiences, enabling them to support the operations of the club that they love and watch every week.
Activities included a workshop with Saints’ first team media lead at the ‘Captain’s Run’, setting out training session cones, engaging with fans within stadium concourses prior to kick off and helping in the club shop alongside Alex Walmsley and Konrad Hurrell.
Described by volunteers as an ‘unforgettable experience’, this was all possible through the charity’s award-winning Inclusive Volunteering programme – synonymous with Rugby League since its inception ahead of RLWC2021.
Cheryl, who is supported at Mill Point, said:
“I’ve had the best day. It was a dream to volunteer for the club that I love. I am so proud of myself and my friends.”
Kurtis Marsh, Sports Inclusion Team Leader at Community Integrated Care, added:
“Over the years the people we support have developed brilliant life skills and confidence through the Community Integrated Care Inclusive Volunteering Programme with Rugby League. We wanted to celebrate all that they have achieved, and we’re delighted to have the support of Saints Community Foundation in activating these special experiences for their Inclusion Round fixture.
“Our charity exists to enable people to live the best life possible, and through our incredible partnership with St Helens and the sport of Rugby League, we can make this a reality for so many. A huge thank you to all at Saints!”
Following their placements, each volunteer and their support team finished the evening watching their beloved Saints from the stands. The Community Integrated Care Learning Disability Super League was in action too, with over 30 Saints players representing their club with on the pitch activity during half time.
