Master stroke
Golden oldies dust off their boots in new form of rugby league.
Last updated: 17th April 2008
Boots 'n' All went along to witness a piece of history last weekend as this country's first ever Masters of Rugby League event took place.
The tournament took place at Saddleworth Rangers' ground near Oldham on Sunday when more than 100 of the game's more mature players took part in a new style of the sport designed to keep the older generation involved.
Already a big success in Australia and New Zealand, Masters Rugby League is for those aged 35 and over who have retired from the competitive game, but still want to play the sport.
Different age groups wear different colour shorts with those aged 35-39 in white, the 40-49s in black, 50-59s in red and those over 60 in gold and there are various adjustments to the rules.
It is 13-a-side, but there is a five-metre rule, just one marker, a maximum of two in a tackle and the tackling is modified - for example you're only allowed to touch somebody if they are wearing gold shorts.
The emphasis is on participation, rather than winning and there are no champions or cup finals, although on the evidence of last weekend's event things were quite competitive.
The concept is set to go truly global this summer when the Australian Masters squad tour England. Their visit will include a clash against the British Masters at the Leigh Sporting Village on Saturday August 2.
Ray Timpson, 66, who turned out for the North-East team said: "It's a great idea and it's trying to keep old fogies like myself active. I played 10 minutes and that's not long enough for me!"
Rugby League journalist David Hadfield said: "It's been one of the weaknesses of rugby league that when players retire from competitive rugby there isn't anything else for them to do and they tend to just wander off.
"This can keep players above the players above the age of 35 and much older than that involved with the clubs, put something back into it and enjoying themselves as well.
"I think it's the blueprint for something that could be really good for the game."
To see the Masters Rugby League for yourself, click the video in the top right of your screen.
- Video
