Tackling Health
The 'Tackling Health' Project took place during the Super League 2000/2001 season.
This project was aimed at highlighting the health issues which affect young men in an attempt to improve their health, and used Rugby League and Rugby Union as a means of making contact, informing and motivating them.
Tackling Health emphasised personal fitness and improving the long-term performance of players by dealing head-on with issues such as diet, cancer, lifestyle and mental attitude.
It is a proven fact that young men do not access health services or ask for advice about their health or wellbeing as much as they should as many consider it 'unmanly' to do so.
By comparison to women, men are:
- Twice as likely to die from lung cancer
- Three and a half time more likely to have heart disease and high blood pressure
- Four times more likely to commit suicide
- Much more likely to have unhealthy dies and be overweight
The key project partners were:
- Local Amateur Rugby Teams
- Warrington Wolves
- Warrington Borough Council
- Warrington Community Health Care Trust
- The Queen's Nursing Institute
The formal Launch took place on 22nd July 2000 at Wilderspool Stadium with a Rugby 7's Competition and specialist health and fitness testing for team supporters.
Tackling Health continued throughout the season using the approach of monthly 'Health Drills' which were packages of fitness-based information offered to participants and produced in a clear style. Various health and information quizzes took place offering the teams additional opportunities to earn points while individual nurse health checks were also offered.
The ultimate Tackling Health Champions were the Latchford Albion Team who were awarded a brand new team kit, training equipment and first aid equipment.
