New wheelchair rugby league section will be for ‘all abilities’

Aber Valley Wolves are preparing to launch their new wheelchair rugby league section, set to be just the third of its kind in south Wales.

Set-up by player-coaches Mathew Morris-Parker and Paul Sargent, the club’s “totally inclusive” new section is one for all ages, and more importantly, all abilities.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer, Mathew said: “It’s been a while in planning, but we’re finally set to get things going and call on people to get involved.

“This first season will be about finding our feet, building a squad of players, improving skills, and preparing to join a league.

“People think that you have to be in a wheelchair permanently to play, but that’s not the case. As long as you’re able to move around in a wheelchair under your own power, you can play.”

The sport is going from “strength-to-strength” according to Mathew, with south Wales having just one side a few years ago and only a handful of players.

He continued: “It’s a great sport. You’ve seen parents playing alongside their kids, including Paul, who also represented Wales in 2015 during the European Championships.”

The rules of wheelchair rugby closely mirror that of running rugby. Matches last 80 minutes, and a try is scored by dabbing the ball down.

Tackles are made by tagging your opponents shoulder, while a conversion is punted over the crossbar with a closed fist. The games are also five-a-side.

Training will be at Caerphilly Leisure Centre, with the first session to be held on Sunday March 1 at 11am.

Mathew added his thanks to Helen Treherne at Aber Valley Wolves, who said their other sections are also looking for new members.

For more information and to get involved, can contact Aber Valley Wolves via social media, or email Mathew at mathew@abervalleywhrl.uk