NSW Physical Disability Rugby League co-founder George Tonna nominated for NewsLocal’s Champions of the West award

GEORGE Tonna helped bring rugby league to those with physical disabilities and wants to grow the sport.

NSW Physical Disability Rugby League Player Billy Bussel, left and league co-founder George Tonna, who has been nominated for a NewsLocal Champions of the West award.

GEORGE Tonna has brought the greatest game of all to those with physical disabilities and now NSW Physical Disability Rugby League co-founder is in the running to boost the sport to new heights.

The Ingleburn father-of-three helped established the competition he won last year as captain of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, but he wants to bring it to more people, starting with those in western Sydney.

Tonna has been nominated for the NewsLocal Champions of the West campaign and said the $10,000 grant would help the NSWPDRL introduce Wests Tigers and Penrith Panthers sides. The current competition is played between the Rabbitohs, Sydney Roosters, Manly Sea Eagles and Newtown Jets.

Tonna said it would also help fund a Combined Indigenous All Stars game, to be played during NAIDOC week in July at Redfern Oval and will feature former South Sydney and Penrith Panthers NRL star Rhys Wesser.

NRL — South Sydney Rabbitohs vs. Brisbane Broncos at NIB Stadium, Perth. PICTURED — Rabbitoh Rhys Wesser celebrates a try.

“This grant would mean the world to us; we would have more exposure with western Sydney teams, could provide those athletes with gear and help to put on exhibition games,” Tonna said.

“Rugby league is the greatest game of all and we want to bring it to all people.”

Tonna said the NSWPDRL was also keen on a trip to the UK next year to promote the game in the league-loving towns of northern England.

“Australians with physical disabilities get to experience rugby league and we want to take it overseas to countries that love league like England.”