HELP OUR YOUNG OZ-UKE PLAYERS TO THE RUGBY LEAGUE WORLD CUP

In October 2024 the Ukrainian Federation of Rugby League Men’s National team will compete in the European group of World Cup Qualifiers in France, along with France, Wales and Serbia, for a place in the 2026 Men’s Rugby League World Cup. The squad for the World Cup qualifiers will predominantly be local players from the Ukrainian Super League, with additional skill and experience provided by a number of players from Australia and England who qualify to represent Ukraine due to their Ukrainian heritage.

The Australian heritage players, chosen from across the rugby league heartland, including Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney and Canberra represent the best Ukrainian rugby league talent in the diaspora, and their passion for rugby league is matched only by their pride and desire to support the country of their parents and grandparents in a time of war, and while under threat to its entire existence. In a small but meaningful way it is how these young men can show solidarity with the people of their ancestral land and give them the knowledge that people outside of Ukraine understand their plight, recognise their courage and sacrifice and will support them in their struggle.

We are looking for donations to support the selected heritage players and lessen the financial burden of the trip, as well as provide financial aid the Ukrainian domestic players with travel costs associated with the event. Donations received through this campaign will be used to cover airfares, accommodation, domestic travel (buses, flights) and insurance costs. Your donation, however large or small, $5, $20, $50 or more will go towards allowing the Heritage and domestic players the opportunity to hopefully be part of the 2026 Men’s Rugby League World Cup in Australia and PNG.

This is a huge milestone for the selected players who are very passionate about representing their heritage in a tournament that will have worldwide exposure. It will be televised and promoted via social media platforms. Not only is this a very exciting opportunity for our young men and their families, but also for Ukrainian Rugby League as it strives to make a name for itself on the world rugby league stage.

As we all know, Ukraine is facing many challenges, and the majority of the domestic players in the national team have or are serving in the military to defend Ukraine from invasion. Any donation big or small is going to a great cause and supports the growth of international rugby league.

For more information or to send a personal message to the boys please don't hesitate to leave a personal note with your donation. We'll gladly respond to everyone who wants to get in touch.

Dates

Game 1- 18/10/2024: Ukraine vs Czech (test match)

Game 2 - 22/10/2024: Ukraine vs France

Game 3 - 26/10/2024 : Ukraine vs Serbia or Wales