| The Manningham
Bulls were formed during the aftermath of
the race-related violence in Bradford. Developmental
activities took place within the most effected
areas, which included Mannningham, a predominantly
Asian area and Newlands, a predominantly
white area. Both of these areas are deprived
and disadvantaged, affected by high unemployment,
poor housing, crime & drug related issues,
etc.
Sport & physical activities were seen
as means to breaking down barriers, raising
awareness about each others cultural &
religious beliefs and building on community
cohesion.
Rugby played a large part in bringing both
sides of the communities together. Activities
included coaching for children and young
people within the heart of the communities,
tournaments and player exchanges. Members
of the community were identified to train
to become qualified coaches in order for
them to take ownership within their own
communities.
An invitation for the Manningham Bulls
to take part in the Scottish Asian Sport
Association games was taken up. The visit
to Scotland gave us the opportunity to also
invite parents of the players. The whole
experience of bringing together families
from the two communities through the medium
of rugby fulfilled one of the objectives
of what BARA stands for.
This project was highlighted by Sport Relief
as a model of good example. As a result,
BBC’s Newsround programme visited
Bradford to televise the Manningham Bulls
in action and interviewed some of the children
and young people involved.
It is expected that many of the young Manningham
Bulls players will eventually play for UK
amateur & professional rugby League
and Union teams and also graduate to the
British Asian Rugby Team.
Through out the year there will be a number
of games and training sessions organised
for young players which will be free if
you have joined BARA. There will also be
the opportunity to tour with the Manningham
Bulls.
The Manningham Bulls will also be attending
various events
throughout the year.
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