7 October 2009

Masters of Rugby League New Zealand and Auckland Masters Rugby League, hosts of this month's 2009 International Masters Rugby League Tournament, have chosen Heart Children NZ as the official charity of the event. It's a move that shows league players, though often big on brawn, are also big on heart.

"We really appreciate the commitment Masters Rugby League has shown children and youth affected by a heart condition," says Heart Children NZ's Events & Sponsorship Coordinator Liz Beck. "Their support through this event has been fantastic. We're really excited to be part of what promises to be a fantastic week of fun, camaraderie and of course lots of rugby league."

Masters Rugby League has played in New Zealand for the past 14 years with 16 tournaments held on both sides of the Tasman so far. This year it's Auckland's turn and with a steady increase in teams over the years, 2009 promises to be the biggest yet with over 60 teams participating.

The Honorary John Banks QSO will open the tournament on Saturday 10 October with game days scheduled through to Friday 16 October 2009 at Auckland's Domain, Cornwall Park and Mt Smart Stadium.

Throughout the week there will be a range of entertainment on offer. Bid for some fantastic collectible league memorabilia at the Masters League Charity Auction to be held on Saturday 10 October 2009, or if you can't make it, bid online at www.mastersleague.com. For more information email Phil Campbell at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . There's also the opportunity to hula the night away at the Pacific Theme Night on Monday 12th October 2009. Both events will be held at the Ellerslie Convention Centre in support of Heart Children NZ. All are welcome and there is no charge for entry.

For the full schedule of events visit www.heartchildren.org.nz/mastersleague or telephone MRL NZ Secretary Peter Clark on Ph 0274 718 236 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

"The Masters Rugby League Tournament is really proud to support Heart Children New Zealand in this way," says MRL Secretary Peter Clark. "It's such a worthy cause and with so many children affected by a heart condition and the numbers steadily growing they really need our help."

Every week in New Zealand 12 babies are born with a heart defect. That's 600 babies each year affected by a heart condition, with a smaller number of children developing a heart condition, often as the result of rheumatic fever, cardiomyopathy and Kawasaki disease.

By the time you sit down for tea tonight two children will have had open heart surgery. Approximately 450 open heart surgeries will be conducted on children this year alone. It's a sobering thought.

At Heart Children New Zealand we believe each and every child, young person and their family deserves to receive personalized support in a way that meets their individual needs; in the hospital, at home and every stage of their journey

Heart Children New Zealand began 25 years ago, the legacy of then new Mums, Michelle Mann and Linda Davies who, despite the loss of their own heart children, set about easing the chronic need for parental support and information.

Today Heart Children New Zealand stretches across the nation, providing professional emotional, practical and financial support, information, education, training, advocacy, specialized equipment and friendship to thousands of children, young adults and their families.

For more information on Heart Children New Zealand visit www.heartnz.org.nz.

-ENDS-

 

Contact

Peter Clark
Masters Rugby League NZ Secretary
Ph 0274 718 236
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www.mastersrubyleague.com

Phil Campbell
Masters Rugby League NZ Chairman
Ph 021424041
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www.mastersrubyleague.com