The Airlie Birds will wrap up the 2024 season with a match day to celebrate and promote equality, diversity and inclusion across all areas of the club, as part of the RFL’s ‘Respect’ campaign.
Hull face the Dragons on Saturday 21st September (3.00pm) with activities taking place across the match day, as well as throughout the week as we highlight positive stories from across the club.
Inclusion Initiatives
Hull FC is taking a comprehensive approach to their Inclusion Match Day, ensuring that all facets of the club are involved in celebrating diversity and promoting a welcoming environment. A range of initiatives will be implemented throughout the week and on match day itself, showcasing the club's commitment to inclusivity.
Community Engagement
The club is extending a warm invitation to young players from the Hull & District region through an exclusive Magic Moments ticket offer. This initiative allows junior players to partake in the match day experience, fostering a love for the sport and inspiring future generations.
Participants from Hull FC Community Foundation summer holiday camps and other foundation sessions will also have the opportunity to engage in the Magic Moments experience, further strengthening the bond between the club and the local community.
Player Involvement
Members of the first-team squad will be actively involved in promoting inclusivity by engaging with supporters of all ages throughout the week. These interactions will extend beyond the stadium walls, demonstrating the players' commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all fans.
Family Celebrations
On match day, the players will have the unique opportunity to walk-out with members of their family ahead of kick-off, adding a personal touch to the event and showcasing the importance of family bonds. This gesture further emphasizes the inclusivity of the event and encourages fans to connect with the players on a deeper level.
New Academy Intake Unveiled
The club's new intake of U18s Academy players, transitioning from Scholarship to Academy, will be formally welcomed with a special signing ceremony before kick-off. This event will be followed by a presentation to the MKM Stadium crowd at half-time, highlighting the future of Hull FC and fostering pride among the next generation of players.
Remembering Our Fallen
Following the annual Club Memorial Service, the stadium's big screens will display a memorial video to honor supporters and former players who have passed away over the past year. This poignant tribute will create a sense of unity and remembrance, honoring the legacies of those who have contributed to the club's rich history.
Wheelchair, Women’s & Girls Parade
At half-time, the club will showcase its commitment to women's and girls' rugby by presenting the Wheelchair, Women's, and Girls teams to the MKM Stadium crowd. This will provide a platform to celebrate the achievements and contributions of these teams, inspiring more women and girls to engage in the sport.
Farewell To Departing Players
Following the match, supporters are encouraged to stay at the stadium to bid farewell to several departing players. This gesture will provide a memorable send-off for these players, acknowledging their contributions to the club and creating a lasting impression on their final appearance.
On the Field: Potential Return of Key Players
The Black & Whites are hoping to welcome back as many as six players for their final match of the season, with coach Simon Grix potentially adding half a dozen faces to his line-up.
Injury Update
The club's injury situation remains fluid, with several players pushing for a return to action. Jed Cartwright is confirmed to return after serving a one-match suspension. However, other key players like Danny Houghton, Carlos Tuimavave, Tom Briscoe, and Ligi Sao are also vying for a return, with the final decision resting with the coaching staff. Jake Trueman's potential return would also mark his final appearance for the club.
Forced Changes
Despite the potential return of key players, Grix will be forced into at least three changes due to injuries sustained in recent matches. Davy Litten, Ed Chamberlain, and Brad Fash have suffered knocks, requiring their absence from the game. Jordan Lane also exited the previous game due to a head injury assessment (HIA), though he has since passed it.
Youth Potential
With the senior squad depleted by injuries, young talent has an opportunity to shine. Jack Charles, an 18-year-old academy player, has been included in Francis Cummins' squad for the upcoming match. Whether he will be able to feature in three games within eight days remains to be seen, but his presence showcases the potential within the club's youth system.
Possible Lineup
Given the current state of the team, here is a possible lineup for Hull FC's final game:
Starting XIII: 37. Logan Moy; 25. Harvey Barron, 3. Carlos Tuimavave, 44. Tom Briscoe, 26. Lewis Martin; 6. Jake Trueman, 31. Jack Walker; 8. Herman Ese’ese, 9. Danny Houghton, 12. Ligi Sao; 48. Jed Cartwright, 15. Jordan Lane; 45. Yusuf Aydin
Interchange: 16. Jack Ashworth, 21. Will Gardiner, 27. Zach Jebson, 28. Denive Balmforth. 18th Man: 19. Morgan Smith
The final decision on the lineup will be made by coach Simon Grix later this week, but this potential lineup highlights the blend of experience and youth that Hull FC is looking to bring to the field for their final match of the season. This final game promises to be a celebration of the club's commitment to diversity and inclusivity, coupled with an exciting blend of established players and promising young talent, ensuring that Hull FC wraps up the season in style.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter Begins
This match marks the end of an era for Hull FC, as they bid farewell to several departing players. It also signifies a potential shift in focus as the club looks toward the future, relying on both the experience of established players and the promise of a new generation of talent. As the curtains close on the 2024 season, anticipation builds for the upcoming campaign, promising a fresh start and exciting possibilities for the Black & Whites.
