Rugby League Cares links up with Men United

Correspondent

The charity Rugby League Cares has confirmed that it is linking up with Prostate Cancer UK for an initiative known as Men United.

The aim of the programme is to increase awareness of prostate cancer, and to mobilise rugby league fans to take action against the disease.

All 12 Super League clubs are also backing the three-year link-up between Rugby League Cares and Prostate Cancer UK.

A host of projects and events at every level of the sport is set to take place over that three-year period.

Men United will also be highly visible at the Magic Weekend at Newcastle in May, with a whole host of events planned for that weekend.

There will also be a series of charity roadshows between May and July with community clubs hosting Men United quizzes and raising money through collections, raffles and auctions.

Rugby League Cares General Manager Chris Rostron said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Prostate Cancer UK on a partnership that will allow both parties to meet their objectives.

“The health and wellbeing of our communities is something Rugby League Cares proudly supports for everyone in the sport. Our exciting partnership with Prostate Cancer UK provides a platform to raise awareness of a disease that each year affects thousands of men, many of whom will have a connection to rugby league.

“Prostate Cancer UK have made a great start in rugby league already through their partnership with Widnes Vikings: our partnership now opens up the campaign to everyone in rugby league, from grassroots to the professional game. There are some marvellous opportunities for everyone to get involved, have fun and help this great cause.”

Chief Executive at Prostate Cancer UK, Owen Sharp, added: “This exciting partnership with Rugby League Cares represents another major milestone in our continuing work within rugby league.

“Our fledgling steps in the game have showcased its rich community heritage and we look forward to working with an organisation – and its member clubs – who clearly want to make a difference to men’s health.

“It struck a chord earlier this year when the RFL launched their era, declaring ‘every minute matters’. One man dies every hour from prostate cancer, so that slogan is equally powerful – and pertinent – to us.

“Through club activities from the top of the game to grass roots level, to the wonderful opportunities that Magic Weekend will present us in Newcastle in May, we look forging a powerful friendship that really makes a difference.”

Funds raised throughout the partnership will be split equally between the two charities.

Fans can win one of two pairs of Magic Weekend Day Pass tickets generously donated by Super League and Rugby League Cares by completing a short survey on behalf of Prostate Cancer UK here.

As part of the national partnership Rugby League Cares and Prostate Cancer UK will be aiming to raise awareness of a disease that kills one man ever hour in the UK.

By completing the survey fans can show their knowledge at the start of the partnership, and share their friendship stories in tandem with the club’s new campaign promoting mates getting together to do something great to beat prostate cancer.