Mixed abilities rugby team Halifax Magpies fundraising to take part in World Cup

The International Mixed Ability Rugby Tournament is the world cup for mixed ability clubs, and takes place in Cork, Ireland in 2021.

But the Halifax Magpies need around £12,000-£15,000 to pay for equipment, travel, passports, insurance, food and medical supplies for 25 players and staff.

Coach Craig Serbert-Smith, 38, who lives in Mixenden, said: “I got involved about four years ago when Stewart Hill asked for facilitators to help on match days and I loved the passion from the lads so I asked if I could help.

“That led to coaching with Stu and running it when he was unavailable, and when he left he asked if I wanted to take it on.

“I jumped at the chance to help develop some of the most passionate, fun loving chaps through rugby.

“It gives them a sense of belonging where they are welcomed for who they are and not judged.

“Some of my lads never had friends until the Magpies, where they now all meet up and enjoy each other’s company.

“Some had low confidence so bad that they could not talk and rugby has helped develop their communication skills.

“We play able and mixed abilities teams, we try to play every two weeks if possible.

“We would love to play weekly though and we train on Saturdays at Halifax RUFC. 

“We are open to anyone aged 17 or over no matter of skill, ability or disabilities.

“We aim to share our amazing sport with people who would not think it’s possible. We treat them no different than our first team.”

When asked what it would mean to the team if they could raise enough money to go to the tournament, Craig said: “It’s a chance for able and disabled players to come together in a non judgemental, safe rugby tournament where they will experience playing against teams from all over the world.

“It’s a chance for some of the players to experience something that they will never do again and be part of a team where they will feel welcomed and appreciated and a great opportunity to make life long friendships through mixed ability rugby.

“The team is a group of lads that come from all walks of life, some have disabilities such as cerebral palsy as well as many hidden disabilities.

“Some have just never played rugby before but they all have one thing in common, they want to be a part of something special and treated the same.”

To donate, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/halifax-magpies-mixed-abilities-rugby.