Veterans shine on centre stage
WITH the vast amount of military veterans within the Masters community its only right that Remembrance Day is chosen as the main event in the calendar to be commemorated with a fixture.
This year was the biggest one to date when 40 military veterans from 24 clubs within the Masters community made the journey to the home of Rochdale Masters and made the most of the opportunity to represent all three services in a fixture played in true Masters spirit.
Without certain individuals and organisations these events don’t happen, so a special mention goes out to everybody at Rochdale Mayfield for their generous offer to host the event, Rochdale Borough Council, Veterans Breakfast Club, Veterans Garage, Jarrow Vikings and Andy Charlesworth for providing funding and Stag Sports, Revilo Automotive, Alexander Khan PLC, Roundel Decorating Services, CPD Property Services & Direct Flooring & Carpets for their generosity in funding the playing shirts and team wear that the veterans get to proudly don.
All clothing worn by the veterans is available to purchase via www.stagsports.com with a small percentage of the sale price going to a military charity.
Together, through shirt sales, sponsors, playing fees and generous donations a total of £1100 was raised that will be donated to the Soldiers’, Sailors’ & Airmen’s & Families Association, a UK charity that provides lifelong support to the armed forces community.
The next planned veterans get together will be its annual fixture to commemorate Armed Forces Day (22nd/23rd June 2024). Planning has already commenced with the veterans committee looking to showcase Masters Rugby League on the biggest stage whilst having the opportunity to show support to our Armed Forces community and give poignant military events the respect they deserve.
If you’re a veteran and want to get involved in any of our get togethers please contact Carl Abraham (Veterans Lead) on abraham3287@hotmail. co.uk or keep an eye on social media with regular information posted.