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A Rugby League Lion is any player or official who has participated in an international tournament or series involving Great Britain, England or Wales (in the 1975 World Cup).
Founded in 1946, the RL Lions Association convenes every year for its annual luncheon when some of the greatest stars in the sport’s firmament come together for a celebration of international rugby league.
The luncheon, which takes place on the last Saturday in January and is sponsored by Ellis Rugby, is free to Lions Association members and a limited number of places are made available to the general public, who have the opportunity to rub shoulders with rugby league all-time greats.
Since the 2017 luncheon, certificates have been presented to attending Lions detailing their unique Lions heritage numbers: family members of Lions who are no longer with us often receive certificates on their behalf.
Another tradition feature of the luncheon is the playing of a tribute video to the Lions who have sadly passed away in the previous 12 months.
All the proceeds from the luncheon are donated to the RL Benevolent Fund – in 2023, the Lions raised almost £10,000 for this important charity which supports rugby players and their families in their darkest hours.
