Man, 75, Plays Rugby AND Cricket At Headingley Stadium

A 75-year-old has completed a sporting double that many lifelong Yorkshire sports fans could only dream of: playing both cricket and rugby league at Headingley Stadium.

Last September, Dave Elliott represented Ilkley & District u3a in the Yorkshire u3a Walking Cricket Festival.

Stepping onto the famous cricket ground was memorable enough.

Less than 12 months later, however, he found himself on the other side of the stadium, wearing the colours of Guiseley Rangers Masters Rugby League team.

On Friday, July 31, Guiseley played Leeds Old Dogs in an exhibition match before Leeds Rhinos’ Super League fixture against Toulouse Olympique.

At 75, Dave was the only player over 70 on the pitch.

Masters Rugby League is open to veteran players, with modified rules and levels of contact determined by age. While younger participants can play a more physical game, the over-60s version is closer to tag rugby, allowing older players to continue enjoying the sport safely.

Last September, Dave Elliott represented Ilkley & District u3a in the Yorkshire u3a Walking Cricket Festival.
Stepping onto the famous cricket ground was memorable enough.
Less than 12 months later, however, he found himself on the other side of the stadium, wearing the colours of Guiseley Rangers Masters Rugby League team. — Pic credit: Dave Elliott

For Dave, a lifelong supporter of Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Leeds Rhinos, the two appearances were particularly special.

“Being a lifelong supporter of both clubs, it has been pretty special for me,” he said.

“I doubt many other people in their seventies can say they have played both cricket and rugby league on the respective pitches at Headingley.”

Ilkley & District u3a brings together retired and semi-retired people across Ilkley, Addingham, Menston, Silsden, Otley, and Guiseley to share hobbies, learn new skills, and socialise. Operating as a volunteer-led charity, it offers over 100 interest groups, regular coffee mornings, digital drop-ins, and group outings with zero-pressure learning

A spokesperson for the organisation said: “Dave’s story demonstrates that retirement need not mean stepping back from sport, friendship or new experiences.

“Ilkley & District u3a’s walking cricket group welcomes members of different ages and abilities.

“There is no running, the emphasis is on enjoyment and teamwork, and players often stay for a sociable drink afterwards.

“Dave may have achieved a rare Headingley double, but his wider message could inspire anyone: you are never too old to stay active, try something different – or even walk onto the field at one of Yorkshire’s most famous sporting venues.”

Source: https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/26480825.75-year-old-daves-amazing-sporting-double-headingley/

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