New figures have revealed how the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC2021) – with two of the finals hosted in Trafford – had a hugely positive impact on the borough that will be felt forever.
Pioneering a unique delivery model for social impact, UK Sport has hailed RLWC2021 as an exemplar social impact programme that will set the standard for future sporting events.
The report, commissioned by RLWC2021 and delivered by The Sports Consultancy and Substance, found that RLWC2021 and its social impact programmes have “demonstrated meaningful impacts for those that watched, engaged, attended and took part”. Because of the geographic footprint, and impact of the tournament’s social impact programmes, 96% of the public believe that hosting RLWC benefitted the North of England.
Led by £30 million of investment, the tournament achieved its ambition of making a positive difference in communities, in grassroots rugby league clubs, and in the lives of people living across the country, especially in the most deprived areas of England. It helped create strong communities, grew the game, stimulated physical activity, improved mental wellbeing and boosted the economy.
The Swinton Lions have revealed that in Trafford alone, the Rugby League World Cup delivered a robust primary schools inclusion tag rugby program with over 350 new participants to RL in Trafford
They also hosted multiple community festivals with over 600 new young people engaged in RL and supported the formation of one new community club and provided assistance to six teams in the Trafford area as well as delivering a robust and sustainable pan disability program which to date has engaged over 100 participants in Trafford.
Cllr Tom Ross, Leader of Trafford Council, said: “We were so proud for Trafford to host the men’s and women’s Rugby League World Cup – a massive honour for our borough and residents. And to now learn that the tournament had such a hugely positive affect on Trafford is brilliant news. The tournament has created a legacy that will last forever and will benefit thousands.
“Thank you so much to everyone who took part and helped set up this incredible sporting event.”
Damian Ridpath, Director of Development, Swinton Lions RLFC, said: “Swinton Lions and the club’s foundation are delighted with the impact that the RFL World cup helped in the borough of Trafford. We have seen more participants from ever before take part in a form of rugby league and we have also witnessed more spectators from the borough attending Lions games at Heywood Road than ever before.”
