SUPER League CEO Robert Elstone has hailed the "inspirational" launch of Learning Disability Super League, of which York City Knights played a part.

The Knights were one of nine major rugby league clubs who supported the event at the Dacia Magic Weekend at Anfield last weekend, which allowed 160 people to play in front of tens of thousands of people.

Super League and the Rugby Football League (RFL) have partnered with the national social care charity, Community Integrated Care, to create an adapted form of the game for people with learning disabilities and autism.

Backed by 12 clubs and integrated into the Super League calendar, this is thought to be the first-ever example of a professional sports league sharing its brand with a learning disability sports programme.

The event was supported by Castleford Tigers, Hull KR, Leeds Rhinos, St Helens, Wakefield Trinity, Warrington Wolves, Widnes Vikings, Wigan Warriors and the Knights, whose learning disability players were cheered on from the stands as Super League heroes.

Speaking at the event, players described their experience as “a dream come true” and “life-changing”.

Elstone said: “I am so proud of the Community Integrated Care Learning Disability Super League. The launch was inspirational and represented everything that Super League is about."

He added: "We should thank those behind the initiative, in particular our partners at Community Integrated Care, our Clubs for supporting their teams, but most of all, our players for their dedication and commitment – anyone who pulls on a Super League jersey is a special human being.

"The launch was one of the highlights of the 2019 Dacia Magic Weekend. It was incredible to see the passionate support from the Anfield crowd in cheering on the players. 

"I’m excited for how this programme and partnership with Community Integrated Care will continue to develop in the years ahead.”

CEO of Community Integrated Care Mark Adams said: “We believe that the launch of the Community Integrated Care Learning Disability Super League at Anfield was one of the most significant moments in our 31-year history and an unprecedented success for the social care sector. 

"We have been humbled and astounded by the impact this has made on players and their loved ones and the support that we’ve been given by the public. 

"This has only been possible because of the values and commitment of Super League, the RFL, the clubs, and the entire rugby league family. 

"This project delivers more than just the opportunity to participate in the great game of rugby league – it brings communities together, creating unforgettable opportunities and changes lives.”

CEO of the RFL Ralph Rimmer added: “Rugby league is always for everyone. This means everyone who wants to play our sport or be involved in it in other ways should be able to do so in the way that’s right for them. 

"The Community Integrated Care Learning Disability Super League is a wonderful partnership. 

"The Rugby Football League also looks forward to working with Community Integrated Care on volunteering opportunities, as the sport works together to ensure that all parts of rugby league are inclusive and welcoming.

"Playing at Anfield was a very special achievement for all players. I know that they and their loved ones enjoyed every minute, and they should feel very proud.”