Hunslet RLFC proudly welcomed the British Asian Rugby Association (BARA) and its Beyond the Try Line – Celebrating Community Heritage in Rugby exhibition to the South Leeds Stadium on Sunday as part of the club’s home fixture against London Broncos.
The exhibition, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, celebrates 20 years of BARA and highlights the contributions of South Asian players, volunteers, coaches, officials and communities to rugby league and rugby union.
Throughout the day, supporters and guests engaged with the exhibition, exploring the stories, achievements and experiences of individuals who have helped shape the game while breaking down barriers and opening doors for future generations.
As part of the day’s activities, BARA Founder Dr Ikram Butt and rugby pioneer Gurdeep “Gurdi” Ryatt were invited to address a packed hospitality suite of more than 150 guests. The audience included former players, club officials, community representatives, sporting personalities and rugby league legends from across the game, including two-time featherweight world boxing champion Josh Warrington.
Dr Butt spoke about the importance of preserving sporting heritage, increasing representation and ensuring that future generations understand the contributions made by diverse communities to rugby. He also highlighted the impact of the Beyond the Try Line project and thanked The National Lottery Heritage Fund for its support.
The occasion held additional significance as Hunslet’s Superhero Day provided a fitting opportunity to celebrate Gurdeep Ryatt, recognised as the first British Sikh professional rugby league player and a true pioneer of the game. His achievements continue to inspire people both within and beyond rugby and remain an important part of Hunslet’s rich history
Both Gurdeep Ryatt and Dr Ikram Butt share a strong connection with Hunslet RLFC, having represented the club during their playing careers. During the event, both were presented with Heritage Certificates in recognition of their contributions to the game, their association with Hunslet RLFC and their role in helping preserve and promote rugby’s rich heritage.
Throughout the afternoon, BARA representatives engaged with supporters, sharing stories from the organisation’s 20-year journey and discussing the importance of heritage, inclusion and opportunity within rugby. The exhibition generated considerable interest and provided an opportunity for supporters to learn more about the role South Asian communities have played in the development of the sport.
Dr Ikram Butt said: “It was a privilege to bring the exhibition to Hunslet RLFC and engage with so many passionate supporters, former players and guests. Having the opportunity to address a packed hospitality suite and share the story behind the Beyond the Try Line project was particularly special. The response was overwhelmingly positive and demonstrated the appetite people have for learning more about the history of our game and the individuals who helped shape it. We are grateful to Hunslet RLFC for their warm welcome and support in helping us share these important stories.”
Hunslet RLFC Chief Executive Neil Hampshire said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the British Asian Rugby Association and the Beyond the Try Line exhibition to Hunslet RLFC. The exhibition provided a fascinating insight into an important part of rugby’s history and was extremely well received by our supporters and guests. We were particularly proud to recognise Gurdeep Ryatt’s pioneering contribution to the game and to provide a platform for these stories to be shared. Events such as this help celebrate the diversity, heritage and community spirit that are at the heart of rugby league.”
BARA would like to thank Hunslet RLFC, its Board, staff, volunteers and supporters for their outstanding hospitality and commitment to celebrating rugby’s diverse heritage. The collaboration between BARA and Hunslet RLFC proved highly successful, with strong engagement from supporters throughout the day, and both organisations look forward to building on this relationship through future heritage, community and inclusion initiatives.
The Beyond the Try Line exhibition continues BARA’s work to preserve, celebrate and share the stories of those who have helped make rugby a game for everyone. As BARA marks its 20th anniversary, the project provides an important opportunity to ensure that the contributions of past and present generations are recognised, celebrated and remembered for years to come.
