Rugby League has developed TACKLE IT – our game’s own anti-racism, anti-discrimination action plan. The plan sets out how Rugby League will extend its reach and appeal, diversify its talent pool, improve its culture, and actively deal with all forms of discrimination with a specific focus on areas in need of most attention at this time – racial discrimination and inequality.
As demonstrated by the whole-game approach to developing the TACKLE IT action plan and the setting up of a new Inclusion Board, there is widespread support for building on last season. This includes having the same 13-second window at all league and cup games (Men’s, Women’s and Wheelchair RL), commencing this Friday.
In common with other sports, match officials will ask teams to line up on the 20m line facing their own dug outs either side of the halfway line (or as per SL club venue plan) e.g. similar procedure to a silence etc.
As with last season, it will be entirely up to players themselves how they choose to approach this 13-second window. It is important that this is player-led, and for players to be informed, respected and comfortable. Broadcasters (including Our League commentators) and journalists are being briefed to this effect.
Rugby League’s stance on player-led line-up activity is consistent with other leading team sports and these arrangements will remain in place until further notice.
Increasing inclusion and diversity whilst tackling all forms of discrimination, including racism, is key to the growth and success of Rugby League. The TACKLE IT action plan is sport-wide and sets out specific measures which the sport is taking together to deliver real change.
We at Hunslet are playing our part in delivering the TACKLE IT commitments to make a positive, lasting difference. We are doing so because Black Lives Matter and Rugby League stands in solidarity with players, coaches, match officials, fans, volunteers, staff, and supporters in the struggle against racism and discrimination in sport and in society.
