St. Helens R.F.C. is excited to announce its participation in The Capital Challenge, featuring a match between their Reserves & Academy talent and The British Army Rugby League Team. This event reflects the club’s strong working relationship with British Army Rugby League and aims to serve as both a competitive fixture and a charitable engagement between the military and rugby league.
The match is set to take place at the historic Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) in London on Wednesday, January 29. It forms part of a double-header, which kicks off with The Royal Artillery facing The Infantry at noon, followed by St. Helens against the British Army 1st XIII at 2 PM.
Fans attending The Capital Challenge will have the opportunity to watch both matches for free, fostering community spirit and showcasing the sport of Rugby League within the capital. The evening will culminate with a Charity Dinner, which requires ticket purchase, aimed at raising funds for two significant causes: the Royal British Legion (RBL) and the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association.
The RBL is renowned as the country’s largest Armed Forces charity, providing support to serving and ex-serving personnel and their families. Meanwhile, the MND Association holds special significance within the rugby league community, thanks to the fundraising efforts led by Rob Burrow. The MNDA funds research, care improvements, and support for individuals and families affected by MND.
The Charity Dinner will feature a sumptuous three-course meal and will include exciting elements like a charitable auction, offering attendees the chance to bid on unique items. It promises to be a night filled with inspiring stories and insights from rugby legends, with Saints’ former captain Paul Sculthorpe acting as the compere. Other distinguished guests include James Roby, Jodie Cunningham, Martin Offiah, and Jamie Jones-Buchanan, who will all share anecdotes from their illustrious careers.
This gathering will not only celebrate rugby league but also allow for networking opportunities as both military and sports communities come together at one of the oldest military organizations globally. The HAC, known for its historical significance and connections to the British Army, serves as the perfect backdrop for this remarkable event.
Saints are particularly thrilled about providing their younger talents with the opportunity to partake in this exciting fixture. Competing against the British Army team will test these players against some of the best talent outside of rugby league's traditional heartlands, giving them invaluable experience and exposure.
With its commitment to community involvement and charitable initiatives, St. Helens R.F.C. is set to make The Capital Challenge not just a display of athletic prowess but also a heartfelt contribution toward two commendable causes.