Hessle Vikings arrive this weekend thanks to the hard work of Stuart Crooks and Malcolm King who have worked with International Mixed Ability Sports (IMAS) to bring Mixed Ability Rugby to Hull & the East Riding.

As described on the IMAS website,

"The Mixed Ability model encourages social inclusion by mixing “able-bodied” volunteers, coaches or tutors who act as facilitators or helpers to guide players on the pitch. The model differs from the Paralympic structure, as it starts from the assumption that anyone, at some point in life, can experience a form of disability.

Mixed Ability Sport is not about classifying levels of ability and separating disabled players into different tiers. We believe this focuses on what people cannot do, the emphasis in Mixed Ability sport is the inclusion of all players! Facilitation, support and involvement are encouraged by all, on and off the field."

Chairman of Hessle RUFC, Malcolm King explained "We will be working with IMAS, Active Sport Humber and the RFU to offer rugby to everyone in our community and plan to offer regular friendly matches against other mixed ability sides."

Mixed Ability rugby is a contact sport which offers a challenge to all but has uncontested scrums in order to make it accessible to a wide range of physical abilities.

First XV team coach Stuart Crooks (who will also be taking the helm of the Hessle Vikings) made a call for all players of all abilities and experience, young and old to come along on Saturday to offer their support and find out more.

"Our mixed ability rugby is open to anyone 17 and over regardless of age, disability or experience.

We would love to have you involved!!"

"Come along and visit our taster day to find out more information, take part in a match and tuck into some delicious BBQ food at what is sure to be a great family day out."

After the launch weekly sessions will be available at Hessle RUFC's home ground on Livingstone Road Hessle.

This also means that players from Hessle Vikings will have every opportunity to play a full part in wider club life as the Mixed Ability Rugby Sessions will be followed by 1st and 2nd XV home matches during the season which all a free to stay and watch.

The club hopes that both current and retired players will offer their support and see this as an opportunity to help someone else enjoy the game that has given us so much.

"The setting here at Hessle is second to none and Mixed Ability Rugby will hopefully allow more people in the wider community see just what a great set up and friendly club we have here."