The Defence School of Transport (Normandy Barracks) played a new role today (Thursday 29 September) as it welcomed the Rugby League World Cup trophies, alongside the international Fiji team, who are using the barracks as a training camp ahead of the competition.
The trophies are in the region as part of the National Lottery Trophies Tour that kicked off in Newcastle on Friday 26 August, marking 50 days to go until the start of the tournament. The trophies are visiting several locations following the barracks, including a community event with Hull KR and Hull FC and Hull University. There’s also a chance for the public to see the trophies at the Hull FC shop in St Stephens.
Fiji’s men’s team are also on site, having arrived in the UK on Monday (26 September) and are using the barracks for training before moving closer to the city ahead of their first fixture versus Australia at Headingly, Leeds on Saturday 15 October.
Lord Mayor of Hull, Councillor Christine Randall said:
“It’s fantastic to have the competition trophies here today and provides a great opportunity for competition excitement to build right across the region.
“We’re really looking forward to welcoming the Fiji team to Hull. I hope they enjoy their stay in our great city and have a fantastic tournament.
“I know our residents are ready to support the team, alongside England of course, and welcome fans from across the world to Hull.”
Donna Grant, Business Support Manager for the Defence School of Transport, Normandy Barracks said:
“We are delighted to be hosting the Fiji team and to kick start the trophies tour today for Hull, it’s been a real honour for us.
“We’ve also been in the enviable position of watching the team train this week. The way that they play has only added to our excitement, and we cannot wait for the competition to kick off later this month.”
With the city hosting three fixtures, including the first round match between New Zealand and Jamaica and a men’s quarter final, Hull will see some of the best action the tournament has to offer and tickets can be purchased here.
