A series of inclusive walking rugby sessions is helping participants stay active, make new friends and feel more connected to their community.
One of the key initiatives is Sheffield Eagles Walking Rugby, which aims to improve physical and mental well-being.
This funding supports the Sheffield Eagles Walking Rugby sessions, promoting inclusivity and participation.
Through initiatives like Sheffield Eagles Walking Rugby, the foundation fosters a sense of community and belonging.
The Eagles Foundation received a £1,000 grant through Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park’s Sheffield Legacy Fund to continue delivering its popular walking rugby programme.
Managed by South Yorkshire’s Community Foundation (SYCF), Sheffield Legacy Fund awards grants of up to £1,000 to grassroots community organisations within a three-mile radius of Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park.
The Eagles Foundation, which is the charitable arm of the Sheffield Eagles professional rugby league team, promotes disability and inclusion alongside community outreach initiatives.
Established in 2023, the Eagles walking rugby programme, alongside a mental health awareness scheme, creates a safe, inclusive space for people to exercise and build friendships, helping to reduce social isolation.
Walking rugby is lower impact and less physically strenuous than the regular game, making it accessible to older players and those with health conditions.
Sheffield Eagles Walking Rugby
Andrea Dobson, development manager for the foundation, said: “We’ve had many positive messages about how walking rugby has supported people’s mental health. Having the opportunity to regularly get outside, exercise and build friendships is vital in reducing social isolation.”
Funding from Sheffield Legacy Fund helped launch the programme, covering resources, social inclusion activities and start-up costs. The weekly sessions, now held at Sheffield Hallam University City Athletics Stadium, on Woodbourn Road, have grown into a supportive and inclusive community.
- Embrace the health & social benefits of Walking Rugby with our “Walking Rugby – Is My Therapy” design perfect for players, supporters, & anyone who believes in the therapeutic magic of this socially inclusive, low-impact sport that gifts it players.
Last update on 2026-08-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API. Walking Football Limited is also an Amazon Associate and earns a commission from qualifying purchases
Since the programme began, 30 people have taken part, with a core group of around 20 participants attending regularly. The sessions bring together men, women and even young participants under 18.
Claire Fretwell, operations manager at Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park, said: “We are thrilled to have supported the launch and growth of this fantastic walking rugby project. People are travelling from across South Yorkshire to take part, with sessions open to all abilities and backgrounds.”
SYCF is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026. Over the past four decades, the Community Foundation has awarded £40 million to thousands of groups across South Yorkshire.
Jess O’Neill, grants and partnerships manager for SYCF, said: “A huge well done to The Eagles Foundation for their vision and commitment. The sessions not only promote physical activity but also boost mental health by helping participants form connections, gain confidence, and enjoy a break from everyday stress.”
The walking rugby sessions will run every Wednesday, from 6-7pm, up until November.
For more information visit Sheffield Eagles Walking Rugby Team: https://heritage.sheffieldeagles.com/stories/sheffield-eagles-walking-rugby-team
For more information or to apply for SYCF funding visit https://www.sycf.org.uk/apply/search-our-grants/sheffield-legacy-fund
#walkingrugby #walkingsports #walkingsport
GET MORE WALKING RUGBY NEWS HERE: https://www.walkingsports.com/category/walking-rugby-news
