The Hull FC Foundation is pleased to announce the expansion of its Rugby in the Park project, which will now extend further into both Pearson Park & Wymersley Park thanks to funding and support from local ward councillors. This development follows a successful first year at Gower Park in Hessle, where the programme has already made a strong impact on young people in the community.

Across the past 12 months, the project has welcomed 81 young people to sessions at Gower Park, with attendance rising further between January and May 2026. The growing interest reflects the value of offering free, accessible rugby league activity in local green spaces, and the expansion into Pearson Park will allow even more young people to benefit from the initiative.

Sessions at Pearson Park will take place every Tuesday evening from 6pm to 7pm, with sessions at Wymersley Park running on a Thursday evening from 6pm – 7pm. They are fully funded and open to all young people, who can simply register beforehand or turn up and register on the day. The aim is to provide a relaxed, enjoyable environment where participants can develop their skills, stay active and feel part of a positive community setting.

Ryan Gibbons, Head of Youth Engagement at the Hull FC Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm for the expansion, saying: “We’re thrilled to be expanding Rugby in the Park into two new areas. The response in Gower Park has been fantastic, and it’s clear there’s a real appetite for more community based activity across the city. These sessions are all about giving young people a safe, positive space to play rugby league and meet new people.

Young people attending the sessions have also shared their experiences. Deacon, a regular participant at Gower Park, said: “I like to come to the session with my mates, I love playing rugby and it gives me and my mates a chance to practice our skills in games. I really liked meeting the Hull FC players when they come down and get involved.”

The Foundation will continue to run its weekly Gower Park sessions alongside the new Pearson Park & Wymersley Park offer, ensuring that both communities have access to the programme.

Further information about Rugby in the Park is available at https://hullfcfoundation.co.uk/rugby-in-the-park/ and enquiries can be directed to ryan.gibbons@hullfc.com.