by The Bradford Bulls were presented with the prestigious Professional Club Award at the inaugural British Asian Rugby Awards ceremony held at the Palace of Westminster earlier this week.
The award recognizes the club’s commitment to community engagement, promoting inclusion and building a sense of belonging within Bradford’s South Asian and wider communities.
This award highlights the club’s ongoing efforts to make rugby accessible and welcoming to people from all backgrounds.
As a city rich in multicultural heritage, Bradford is home to a large South Asian population, and the Bulls have always worked to bridge cultural gaps, encouraging community participation in rugby and reinforcing the sport’s value as a unifying force.
In 2022, they became the first rugby league club in the UK to host Iftar and Diwali community events at Bartercard Odsal Stadium, welcoming fans and families from all walks of life.
Photos from an Iftar event held in Odsal a few years ago. (Image: UGC.)
Last year, the Bulls took another historic step by signing the Muslim Athlete Charter in partnership with Nujum Sports, cementing their commitment to understanding and supporting the needs of Muslim athletes and fans.
They have also joined the Muslim Friendly Employer Initiative, demonstrating their commitment to creating an inclusive environment.
The Bradford Bulls Foundation is also playing a vital role in these initiatives, collaborating with BARA and RFL on a research project focused on best practice for engaging South Asian communities.
Bradford Bulls Commercial Director Ian Stafford was at the ceremony representing the club and said: “We are deeply honored to be recognized with the Professional Club award.
“Our mission is to create a club that reflects the diversity of Bradford, and this award is testament to the hard work of the club and the Foundation in building these connections.
“Rugby is a sport that brings people together and we are committed to making everyone feel welcome on and off the pitch.
“Whoever you are and wherever you come from, you are welcome at Bradford Bulls.”
