Princess Catherine shows off wheelchair rugby league skills in game
Princess Catherine has been described as a “natural” after she joined in a game of wheelchair rugby, but the royal did have one concern before taking to the court.
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Princess Catherine thrilled England’s Wheelchair Rugby League team during a training session, showing off some serious skills of her own.
The Princess of Wales took part in a wheelchair rugby game to highlight the inclusivity in the sport, during a training session run by members of the world-cup-winning England Wheelchair Rugby League squad.
According to a report in The Sun, the princess, who is patron of Britain’s Rugby Football League, made a solo visit to the Allam Sports Centre in northern England to raise awareness of disability sports.
Princess Catherine did reveal, however, that she was “worried” about her injured finger as she joined in the training session.
Wearing strapping on her right hand after the painful-looking hand injury was revealed three weeks ago after a trampoline mishap with her children, the Princess said: “I’m worried about my finger, but willing to try.”
But she refused to let the injury affect her, vowing: “I’m going to get stuck in.”
Princess Catherine, who has described herself as “notoriously competitive”, wore a bandage across her index and middle finger as a “precaution”.
And she showed no fear after being quickly shown a few moves by the team and joining in a robust session.
The England team said they were left “open-mouthed” as she raced up and down the court.
And they applauded and cheered after she scored in the corner – before adding a conversion to boot.
The visit is part of Rugby League Inclusivity Day and saw the 41-year-old chat with players and their families.
She also learned about how the game has been adapted for players with physical disabilities who want to access a running version of the sport.
“She took to manoeuvring the chair really quickly,” England’s coach Tom Coyd said.
“I’m not just saying this because it’s her, but it’s the first time I’ve ever seen anyone score a conversion at their first attempt. I think she’s been having secret practice sessions before coming here because she was a natural,” he continued.
“She even finished off a passing move with a try in the corner. She blew me away to be honest.”
Wheelchair Rugby League is currently the most inclusive format across Rugby League, providing the opportunity for all to play together regardless of gender or disability.
England’s Wheelchair Rugby League team were crowned World Champions last November.
England hosted the World Cup and beat their old rivals and reigning champions France 28-24 in a closely fought final.
At the time the Wales’ and their three children had watched the final on television – and youngest son Prince Louis is said to be a keen rugby player.
In January, the princess hosted a reception for the team at Hampton Court Palace.
The inclusivity day saw members of Hull FC’s wheelchair, physical disability and learning disability rugby league teams taking part in training skills sessions and friendly matches.
The teams were joined by students from Hull FC’s Centre of Excellence as they learn about and experience the different forms of disability rugby league.
It comes after Princess Catherine earlier this week made an unannounced visit to a centre for Ukrainian refugees.
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