LDSL, a partnership between Community Integrated Care and rugby league clubs, offers a dynamic and engaging variant of the traditional rugby league game. This exciting version is tailored to individuals with learning disabilities, providing them with an opportunity to play rugby league in a non-competitive, safe and modified environment. Rather than physical contact, LDSL uses tags, allowing players to enjoy the sport without fear of injury.
Our weekly training sessions are held on Mondays from 6-7 pm at Golborne Parkside. The sessions are designed to develop core skills, such as agility, balance, and coordination, as well as specific rugby league skills, such as passing, catching and tactical awareness. Our training sessions provide a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages players to socialize and build friendships, creating a sense of camaraderie and belonging within the team.
Players enrolled in our program have the opportunity to attend festivals and play games against other LDSL teams throughout the season. This provides a fantastic opportunity for players to showcase their skills and engage in friendly competition, while also building self-esteem and confidence.
All of our training sessions and games are led by highly qualified staff with extensive experience within disability sport. Our staff are passionate about creating a safe and inclusive environment where all players can thrive and reach their full potential.
Overall, LDSL offers a unique and exciting opportunity for individuals with learning disabilities to engage in a sport they love, develop valuable skills, and build lasting friendships.
PDRL is a thrilling and action-packed variation of Rugby League that is designed to be inclusive and accessible to anyone with a physical disability or acquired brain injury. Despite the modifications, PDRL retains the excitement and energy of the Super League, with big hits and spectacular tries that are sure to thrill spectators.
Unlike traditional Rugby League, PDRL is played with nine players on each side, on a modified pitch. Each team comprises five full-contact disabled players, two disabled tag players, and two “able-bodied” players. This format enables individuals with physical disabilities or acquired brain injuries to fully participate in the sport, regardless of their level of ability.
The Leigh Leopards have recognized the potential of PDRL and are committed to providing opportunities for disabled players to develop their skills and compete at a high level. In 2023, the team will be running a development side, which will offer training and playing opportunities to disabled players who are interested in playing PDRL. This initiative aims to provide a pathway for players to progress and potentially form a full team in the following year.
The Leigh Leopards PDRL program provides a supportive and inclusive environment for disabled players to enjoy rugby league and develop valuable skills, such as teamwork, communication, and physical fitness. The program also offers a chance to build social connections and form lasting friendships with fellow players and coaches.
Overall, PDRL is an exciting and accessible variation of Rugby League that provides opportunities for disabled individuals to participate in a highly competitive and physically challenging sport. The Leigh Leopards’ commitment to the development of a PDRL team demonstrates their dedication to providing inclusive and accessible opportunities for all players, regardless of ability.
