There was a great atmosphere at Friday’s Breakfast Club as we welcomed back former player Gurdeep Ryatt.
The visit was organised by another former player Dr Ikram Butt. Ikram commented “Gurdi made history during the 1970s as the first British Asian rugby league player in the professional game and was recognised at the time by the Yorkshire Evening Post as the first Sikh player to represent Hunslet RLFC.
The event emphasises Hunslet’s proud and diverse heritage as a club that has historically broken barriers within rugby league, including being home to Lucius Banks, recognised as the first Black professional rugby league player.
Following Gurdeep’s pioneering contribution, other British Asian players to feature at Hunslet include Amraz Hamid and myself, reflecting the continuing contribution of South Asian communities within the sport.”
At the London Broncos fixture on 31st May, Gurdeep will be presented with a special heritage certificate in recognition of his contribution to the Club and his role in inspiring future generations.
The occasion forms part of the British Asian Rugby Association’s National Lottery Heritage Fund supported project, Beyond the Tryline – Celebrating Community Heritage in Rugby, delivered in collaboration with Hunslet RLFC to help preserve, recognise and celebrate the often untold stories and contributions of South Asian communities within rugby.
Supporters attending the fixture will also have the opportunity to view the BARA Heritage Display, showcasing important stories, images and milestones connected to the history of British Asian involvement in rugby.
Club President Peter Jarvis commented “It was great to see Gurdi and the Breakfast Club continues to epitomise what rugby league is all about, community and friendships.”
