Connor Lynes has overcome overwhelming adversity to fulfil his Rugby League ambitions and win the World Cup with his country. At the age of 3 Connor was fostered by his Aunt, Sara. At that time Sara was also a Rugby League coach and encouraged Connor to play Rugby League as a way of channelling his anger issues in a positive way.
Unfortunately, Connor suffered a serious leg injury after being struck by a car and was told that he would never play the sport again due to the severity of his injury.
Connor was determined not to give up playing the sport he loved. Following a long and difficult recovery Connor eventually received the all clear to start training and then playing games again.
Connor’s efforts were rewarded when he was selected to represent the East of Hull side to play an origin game vs West of Hull in 2012. Connor continued to play until 2015 when he suffered two life threatening strokes as a result of a blood clot and was again told he would never play Rugby League again.
In early 2018, Physical Disability Rugby League was launched in the UK. PDRL gives people with Physical Disabilities the opportunity to participate in Rugby League and play the sport they love.
That is exactly what Connor did, starting his PDRL career at Wakefield Trinity before moving on to Castleford Tigers. During his time at Wakefield Trinity, Connor was called up to represent England at the 2021 Physical Disability Rugby League World Cup. Unfortunately, due to the Covid 19 pandemic the tournament was delayed until 2022.
However, Connor and his England team were not to be denied their success on home soil and, after a hard fought tournament they were eventually successful after defeating New Zealand 42-10 in the final, becoming the first ever Physical Disability Rugby League world champions!
Connor has recently returned to his hometown club, Hull KR. The Physical Disability Rugby League lead at Hull KR is Liam Waslin who told us:
“I am very pleased to have Connor on board with us here at Hull KR. We are in the early stages in the growth of the team, so to have someone of Connor’s calibre on board is a valuable asset as he brings a wealth of experience and knowledge. Connor has overcome numerous setbacks throughout his life and is a great example of resilience and self-belief. I am pleased that we are able to provide an opportunity to continue playing the sport he loves in his hometown.“
Physical Disability Rugby League has enabled Connor to continue playing the game he has loved his entire life, representing his country and rebuilding his confidence and self-esteem.
For more information on PDRL at Hull KR or to get involved in the sport contact Liam Waslin at: liam.waslin@hullkr.co.uk
