Rugby League World Cup launches search for 2,000 volunteers

Applications to volunteer at Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) 2021 opened this morning (Thursday) and are being encouraged by Leeds Rhinos' women's team coach Lois Forsell who is an ambassador for the tournament.

'The Power Squad' will be made up of 2,000 volunteers, taking on roles including transport, spectator services, accreditation, way-finding, media, content and broadcast support.

Competition planners say volunteers will be "the faces of the tournament, showcasing the values of rugby league as well as welcoming the world to England when the 16th edition of this historic global event kicks off".

The online recruitment process will be open until 8.21pm (20.21) on April 23.

The programme features a dedicated interview process followed by comprehensive training for successful candidates.

RLWC2021 chief executive John Dutton said: “The Power Squad programme will be the biggest volunteer squad ever assembled for a rugby league event.

"We want to engage with all ages, genders and communities and build on the incredible passion for volunteering at major events in England.”

He added: "The UK has a fantastic volunteer network which we hope to tap into.

"A successful tournament cannot be run without our Power Squad and we hope to welcome many new people to the ever-growing rugby league family to experience the passion, pride and community spirit of the sport."

Forsell, a former England player, said: “I urge everyone in and around the RLWC2021 host towns and cities to take up this opportunity and apply to be a volunteer at international rugby league’s showpiece event.

“There is no better chance to be the face of a global tournament in England and with that comes a unique opportunity to play an important role in the biggest and best ever Rugby League World Cup.”

Ex-Kiwi star Robbie Hunter-Paul is also an ambassador for the World Cup.

He added: “As a player you always highly appreciate the work the volunteers do to provide a platform for greatness on the field of play - without a dedicated team of volunteers the tournament wouldn’t be a success.

“There is a real correlation between good mental fitness and new challenges and opportunities.

"In a time when the world is deprived of opportunities like this, RLWC2021 is a beacon of light and being part of The Power Squad and experiencing the power of together to make memories that will last forever is really special.”

Candidates must be available for a minimum of three shifts across the tournament and able to attend training sessions in the summer as well as being aged at least 18 by September 1.

Applications can be made via www.RLWC2021.com

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