Over the past four months, Campbelltown Harlequins Rugby Football Club has partnered with CLASS (Community Living and Support Solutions) to deliver a groundbreaking All-Abilities Rugby Program, bringing movement, teamwork, and sportsmanship to local participants.
Held fortnightly on Fridays, the sessions focus on introducing fundamental motor skills, coordination, and accessible spatial movement in a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment.
The program has quickly become a highlight for CLASS clients and club volunteers alike, earning widespread praise for its positive impact on physical well-being and social connection.
International Inspiration: Joining Forces with the NZ PDRL Squad
The program hit a new high last Friday when participants were joined by an elite contingent: the New Zealand Physically Disabled Rugby League (NZ PDRL) World Cup squad.
Fresh off a grueling World Cup fixture against Australia, the visiting Kiwi international squad spent their recovery day on the pitch with the Harlequins and CLASS participants.
The joint session featured shared skill drills, modified games, and dynamic movement workshops.
The day was an overwhelming success, sparking enthusiastic praise from the New Zealand contingent.
Impressed by the grassroots framework established at Campbelltown Showground, members of the NZ group expressed keen interest in taking the program’s concept back across the Tasman to launch similar all-abilities frameworks throughout New Zealand.
Following the overwhelming success of the pilot program, Campbelltown Harlequins RFC and CLASS are already laying the groundwork to expand the initiative.
Plans are under way to open registration to additional disability service providers, community groups, and individual participants early in the new year.
“Seeing the smiles on the field and the genuine camaraderie built over these last four months shows the power of grassroots sport,’’ said a Harlequins club spokesperson.
“Hosting the NZ PDRL squad was an incredible validation of what we are building here. We look forward to welcoming even more participants to the Harlequins family in the new year.’’
