Rugby League Cares is launching a new event that will allow newly-retired professional players to walk off into the sunset together – literally!
The Warriors Walk will foster the camaraderie that players have enjoyed throughout their playing careers and involves a two-day, two-night adventure taking in the ascent of the Yorkshire three peaks, Whernside, Pen-y-ghent and Ingleborough in under 12 hours.
The fully-supported walk is only open to Super League, Championship, League One and Women’s Super League players and match officials retiring this year or who have retired in the last three years and sets out to create a fun, fulfilling physical challenge for participants as they prepare to make their transition into new careers.
The Warriors Walk will also provide an opportunity to rekindle old friendships, be part of a team and for players to share with each other their own experiences of preparing for life after rugby.
Twelve players have already signed up to the inaugural Warriors Walk and RL Cares is inviting all players who have recently retired to move quickly to take up the few remaining places.
RL Cares Transition Manager Francis Stephenson said: “The Warriors Walk promises to be a fantastic celebration of the career of every player who takes part and will create memories we hope will last a long time.
“I know from experience that making the transition out of sport at the end of your playing career can feel a little bit of an anti-climax.
“One day you’re part of a close-knit group and the next you feel like you’re on your own. It doesn’t have to be like that and the Warriors Walk is our way of giving players the chance to sign off in style.
“We hope to make this an annual event with a different location and challenge every year: for the inaugural walk we’re going to be based in Malham in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales.
“There’s no fee for taking part but this generation of players recognise the tremendous work RL Cares does in the field of player welfare and are all keen to fundraise for the charity.”
The 2021 Warriors Walk takes place on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th of September, with the walk itself on the Saturday led by Carnegie Great Outdoors. There will be a guest speaker on the Friday night and an awards ceremony on Saturday night to recognise the various achievements of the day.
All meals and refreshments are provided, as are a commemorative Warriors Walk T-shirt.
Half of the 25 places on the 2021 Warriors Walk have already been taken: the remaining places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis.
To book your place, or for more information, please contact Francis Stephenson on francis.stephenson@rlcares.org.uk or 07769 714992
