The RFL have confirmed a brilliant fundraising initiative for the upcoming Super League Magic Weekend in honour of Rob Burrow and the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
Magic Weekend returns to St James Park for the first time since 2022 with the Super League showpiece event taking place for the 18th time.
In recognition of it being the 18th Magic Weekend, Super League sponsors Betfred have confirmed that they will pay £180 for every try celebration with the money raised going to the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
Raising awareness of and finding a cure for MND is something all rugby league fans are passionate about with the cause close to the hearts of those in the sport due to the way it affected former Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow.
Burrow was diagnosed with MND in December 2019 and fought the condition bravely for four-and-a-half years before passing away on June 2nd 2024.
Throughout his battle, Burrow helped raise millions of pounds and even more awareness of the condition and this latest initiative is set to keep his legacy going.
Magic Weekend fundraiser confirmed by Super League
The RFL have confirmed the initiative that is being run by sponsors Betfred with every try celebration adding to the pot, as well as £1,000 being donated in the name of the player who has the best celebration over the weekend.
A statement announced: “Super League players will be encouraged to shoot for 180s by title sponsors Betfred at Magic Weekend in Newcastle – to join Rugby League’s fund-raising efforts for the Motor Neurone Disease Association.
“To mark the 18th Magic Weekend since the concept was launched in Cardiff in 2007, Betfred will donate £180 for every try celebration across the six fixtures at St James’ Park – and have also offered an additional £1,000 for the best celebration over the weekend.”
Burrow’s former team Leeds Rhinos will face St Helens in the final game of day one at Magic Weekend with both teams needing a win follow losses last week.
Rhodri Jones, Rugby League Commercial’s Managing Director said: “We wanted to find a way to celebrate the 18th Magic Weekend, and Rugby League is always looking to support the Motor Neurone Disease Association – and thanks to Betfred’s support, we’re going to ask the players to lead the way in both.
“Magic Weekend has always emphasised the fun and enjoyment of Rugby League, for players and supporters.
“We’ve seen some memorable try celebrations over the years – Sam Tomkins in a Semi Final against St Helens in Perpignan springs to mind, and Sam Luckley enjoyed an Alan Shearer moment at a previous Magic Weekend – and going further back with a link to the return of the Ashes this autumn, Henderson Gill’s ‘bit of a boogie’ against Australia in Sydney.
“We’re intrigued to see what the current Super League players might come up with, in the knowledge that they’ll also be raising money for the MND Association.”
To mark the 18th #MagicWKND @Betfred will donate £180 for every try celebration at St James’ Park at the weekend 🕺
The money raised will go to @mndassoc 👏#SuperLeague
— Betfred Super League (@SuperLeague) April 28, 2025
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