Rugby Club Issue 52 | Page 44

carlisle Gladiators FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG Carlisle Gladiators RLFC C arlisle Gladiators RLFC is a newly formed club that provides young players in the local area with an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment. We caught up with their Chairman Andy Phinn to find out how they have been getting along. Involvement He told us, “Being one of the three founders of Carlisle Gladiators, I have been involved since it was a thought back in March 2013. The challenge of starting a club from scratch and providing the opportunity of Rugby League to Carlisle and its surrounding area was what attracted me to creating Carlisle Gladiators. Being a junior club at present, youth rugby is essential to Carlisle Gladiators. It is during the grass roots stages that you make the biggest impression on the kids during the lessons in both the game and life. It is vital you get the education right and it will help create better men and women in the future.” Rewards “The most rewarding part of Carlisle Gladiators is seeing the youngsters making new friends on and off the pitch, 44 Issue 52 learning lessons that will set them up for life as well as on the field and enjoying being a part of a club. There are new friendships made between the adults who are brought together through the family orientated sport of Rugby League as well. All the hard work and effort is rewarded when you can stand back and enjoy some great rugby played out between two teams from across the width of North England at one of the many festivals organised by the many clubs that share this sport.” Atmosphere “Everyone involved in the club from the adults to the players are “bouncing” with excitement. We have had a great 2014 and cannot wait to start 2015 as we predict a massive year for Carlisle Gladiators. We have continued training throughout the winter by taking it indoors during the week and focusing on fitness levels with