Leeds Rhinos Foundation Checkatrade Takeover Nights Launch Leeds 2026

Key Points

• Leeds Rhinos Foundation announces partnership with Checkatrade to launch Checkatrade Community Club Takeover Nights for rugby league community clubs across Leeds.
• Initiative forms part of the Foundation’s Rugby League Development Plan, providing support and engagement for local clubs.
• Each takeover night includes a rugby league taster session, primary and secondary CPD sessions, girls’ sessions where applicable, educational workshops on respect and volunteering, a visit from Ronnie the Rhino, and a player appearance.
• All elements delivered by the Foundation’s Rugby League Development staff, supported by Leeds Rhinos legend Danny McGuire.
• Aims to support 20 community clubs in Leeds, upskilling players and coaches while creating positive environments for young people.
• Checkatrade’s involvement expands grassroots rugby league impact, inspiring greater participation among children and young players.
• Sam Horner, Rugby League Development Manager at Leeds Rhinos Foundation, welcomes the support and highlights the benefits for clubs.
• Clubs across Leeds will host events throughout the year, contacted directly by designated officers.

Leeds (The Leeds Times) April 9, 2026 – The Leeds Rhinos Foundation has launched a new partnership with Checkatrade to introduce Checkatrade Community Club Takeover Nights, targeting rugby league community clubs across Leeds.

What Are Checkatrade Community Club Takeover Nights?

The initiative delivers a structured programme of support under the Foundation’s Rugby League Development Plan. Each participating club hosts a dedicated takeover evening with multiple components.

These include a rugby league taster session to introduce skills, continuing professional development (CPD) sessions for primary and secondary levels, and a girls’ session where applicable. Educational workshops cover topics such as respect and volunteering.

Additional features comprise a visit from the club mascot, Ronnie the Rhino, and an appearance by a Leeds Rhinos player. Delivery comes from the Foundation’s Rugby League Development staff, with support from Leeds Rhinos legend Danny McGuire.

As stated in the official announcement from Leeds Rhinos Foundation, the programme strengthens commitment to 20 community clubs citywide. It focuses on upskilling players and coaches, while fostering positive environments for young people.

How Does This Partnership Support Grassroots Rugby League in Leeds?

Checkatrade’s role centres on funding and enabling these takeover nights. The partnership expands the Foundation’s reach, connecting with more clubs to boost participation among children and young players.

Sam Horner, Rugby League Development Manager at Leeds Rhinos Foundation, provided insight into the collaboration. He commented: “We are so grateful for the support from Checkatrade, which will help us continue our great work in the city. Our Rugby League Development Plan is so important to keep players and coaches engaged with our game. It is a great opportunity for the clubs involved to make the most of our educational offers and gain insight into our delivery techniques, which they can build on and incorporate into their own coaching at the community club level.”

Clubs receive direct contact from designated Foundation officers to schedule sessions. Events roll out throughout the year across Leeds.

Which Clubs Will Participate and When?

The programme targets 20 community rugby league clubs in Leeds. Specific names remain undisclosed in the initial announcement, with participating clubs notified individually by their designated officer.

Sessions occur as takeover nights hosted by the clubs themselves, in coordination with Foundation staff. No fixed calendar dates appear in the release; arrangements proceed on a club-by-club basis throughout the year.

What Role Does Danny McGuire Play in the Initiative?

Leeds Rhinos legend Danny McGuire supports the delivery of takeover nights. His involvement aids the Rugby League Development staff in running taster sessions, CPD, and player appearances.

The Foundation’s announcement positions McGuire as a key figure in enhancing the events’ appeal and expertise.

Why Is the Rugby League Development Plan Important?

The plan underpins the takeover nights, aiming to sustain engagement in rugby league at the community level. It addresses player and coach development, incorporating educational elements like respect and volunteering workshops.

Horner emphasised its value in maintaining involvement in the sport locally.

How Will Checkatrade Benefit from the Partnership?

Checkatrade supports the initiative to promote grassroots rugby league growth in Leeds. The announcement notes this expands impact, helping the Foundation inspire more young participants.

No further details on Checkatrade’s specific contributions, such as funding levels, appear in the release.

What Feedback Exists from Similar Foundation Initiatives?

The announcement does not reference prior programmes directly. However, Horner’s comments indicate the Development Plan’s established role in citywide efforts, suggesting continuity with ongoing work.

Background of the Development

The Leeds Rhinos Foundation operates as the charitable arm of the Leeds Rhinos rugby league club, focusing on community development through sport. Established to promote rugby league and related education, it runs various programmes including coaching development and youth engagement across Leeds.

Checkatrade, a UK-based platform connecting homeowners with vetted tradespeople, engages in community partnerships. This collaboration aligns with its support for local sports initiatives, building on previous sponsorships in rugby and other areas.

The Rugby League Development Plan forms a core strategy for the Foundation, targeting grassroots sustainability. It addresses challenges like coach retention and youth participation in Leeds, where rugby league holds strong cultural roots via the professional Leeds Rhinos team.

This partnership emerges amid efforts to bolster community sports post-pandemic, with foundations like Leeds Rhinos expanding outreach. The takeover nights build on existing models, integrating mascot visits, player interactions, and CPD to enhance club capacities.

Predictions: Impact on Leeds Community Rugby League Clubs and Young Players

This development provides Leeds community rugby league clubs with free access to professional resources, including CPD and taster sessions. Clubs gain tools to improve coaching, potentially increasing player retention and skill levels among their members.

For young players, particularly children and girls, where sessions apply, the events offer entry points via tasters and mascot visits. Player appearances by figures like Danny McGuire may heighten interest, leading to higher participation rates in local rugby league.

Educational workshops on respect and volunteering equip participants with life skills alongside sport. Over the year, 20 clubs hosting events could amplify reach, creating more positive environments that encourage sustained involvement.

Checkatrade’s backing ensures delivery without cost to clubs, allowing focus on implementation. Direct officer contact streamlines uptake, potentially setting a model for future partnerships.