Rugby League Norge has been awarded 1,750,000 crowns (approx 176,000 euros) by the DNB Savings Bank Foundation towards the development of the wheelchair game.

The successful funding bid comes on the back of Norway gaining a place in the 2021 Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup in England.

RLN chairman Karl-Fredrik Velle said: “The grant will be used to buy equipment to play the game with the correct rugby league chairs, markings and goal posts. The rest of the funds will be used to pay for coaches, the development of the clubs and the national competition.”

“We are delighted as it shows RLN is now being viewed as a professional governing body by the national organisations here in Norway. This represents a huge milestone in our development and I know the grant will make a big difference to the sport but most importantly people’s lives.”

RLEF general manager Chris Thair added: “It is fitting reward the work done by everyone involved in RLN, it shows international rugby league continues to progress and everyone should take great confidence from this. I’ve no doubt there is someone in Norway right now that will start to play wheelchair rugby league for the first time due to this grant and could then go on to represent Norway in the World Cup.”

Thair continued: “Grants such as these make a massive difference, sport is tremendously positive vehicle for this and the RLEF congratulate everyone involved in making this happen.”