THE Brain Tumour Research charity will receive a cash boost of £1,500 following the successful Pocklington Premier Touch Rugby League Charity Tournament.
The inaugural event, hosted by Pocklington AFC, arose from weekly social Touch Rugby League sessions which have burgeoned into a thriving community movement which attracts players, volunteers, sponsors and supporters from the wider York area.
Eight teams, the best part of 100 players and 200 spectators and backers were present on Sunday, August 8, primarily in memory of Cain North, who has sadly passed away at the age of 24 through a rare brain condition.
Brain Tumour Research helps support vital laboratory discovery science, national brain tissue banks, specialised clinical trials for targeted treatments and immunotherapies and the training of future scientific leaders working to find a cure.
The Rugby Football League stated: “Events such as the Pocklington charity tournament demonstrate how Premier Touch Rugby League can act as a powerful vehicle for social impact, strengthening community connections, improving physical and mental wellbeing and creating opportunities for people to form lasting friendships.
“By providing an inclusive and welcoming environment, Premier Touch Rugby League helps unite communities, celebrate shared values and use the power of sport to make a positive difference both on and off the pitch.”
The York RLFC Foundation added to the entertainment by fetching an inflatable rugby field, while Cain’s All Stars donated £325 and York Masters £250.
Meanwhile the number of Touch Rugby League players at Pocklington has more than tripled from an initial 28 to more than 90. Pocklington entered four teams.
Plans are now in hand for an expanded tournament in 2027 – and for the launch of a competitive Pocklington Touch team to play on a more regular basis for charitable causes.
Potential players or volunteers should email pocktouchrl@gmail.com, while anyone planning a Premier Touch Rugby League Charity Event should email Bradley.Kelk@rfl.co.uk.