The New Zealand Rugby League Museum has unveiled a new cabinet celebrating Physical Disability Rugby League New Zealand (PDRLNZ) and their contribution to the game.

As an associate member of NZRL, PDRLNZ has provided our players with a platform to develop, succeed and grow through rugby league, no matter the barrier. This cabinet showcases PDRLNZ’s contribution to the game on and off the field, as they continue to bridge the gap between disabled and non-disabled athletes, break down social stigmas and effect change within our communities.

Since its launch in 2015, PDRLNZ has worked tirelessly to provide a platform for our disabled athletes to showcase their skills domestically and internationally. In 2017, PDRLNZ hosted the inaugural International tournament – the Auckland PDRL Nines. Following this, the PDRLNZ team went to the 2018 Commonwealth Championships in Brisbane, with the New Zealand squad playing a world first PDRL international Tri-test series against Australia and the Commonwealth All Stars. And just recently, PDRLNZ sent a Kiwis team to the 2018 Rugby League Emerging Nations World Championships in Sydney.

Sandra Hickey, Founder and Chair of PDRLNZ says “We are thrilled to have our journey displayed here at NZRL museum alongside the rest of our Rugby League family. This is a proud moment for all of us here at Physical Disability Rugby League New Zealand as history has been made.”

Greg Peters, CEO of NZRL says “PDRLNZ is a perfect example of how we use rugby league to unite communities of people from all tribes and walks of life – which of course, is the Kiwi Way. Their athletes champion the Kiwi Way every single day, embodying values such as diversity, inclusiveness and courage – to name a few.

“PDRLNZ, it’s players, staff, volunteers and all associated, epitomise our More Than A Game philosophy, they lead by example, acting as role-models to all in our league communities from up and down the country. We want to thank them, not only for their work towards growing the game on the field but for effecting important change off the field as well.” Greg concluded.

Looking ahead, NZRL and PDRLNZ are hoping to have PDRL games as test curtain raisers, providing more opportunities for our athletes to play on the international stage.