'Fat Monkey' rugby festival to showcase the amateur game in Leigh

Earlier this year, the 'Fat Monkey' podcast was launched to "shine a light" on the amateur game and help young players "see their name up in lights".

Launched by Matt Parry and Craig Mulqueeny, the podcast and social media group was also set up as an antidote to some of the negative opinions that gets thrown out about rugby league, with the pair keen to show the good that goes on in the sport.

Although the project was launched less than a year ago, Matt and Craig say that 'Fat Monkey' has taken on a life of its own and the pair will host their first family-friendly rugby festival on Saturday, October 5.

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The Fat Monkey group helps young players 'see their name up in lights' (Image: Matt Parry) Set to take place at Leigh Miners, the festival will include a tournament that includes amateur junior clubs, such as Leigh Miners, Clock Face Miners, Wigan St Pats, Golborne Parkside, and West Bank Bears.

The main game will involve a 'Fat Monkey' squad, which includes Craig, Matt, and a bunch of players and coaches from across the rugby league and union communities, taking on 'Warrington Select'.

Raising money for St Rocco's end of life hospice in Warrington, there will also be a host of activities and entertainment on offer, including axe throwing, face painting, and live singers.

There will also be a collection of food, drinks, and charity stalls located at the Sutton Park pitches, on Manchester Road in Leigh.

The podcast shines a light at all aspects of the amateur rugby league community (Image: Matt Parry) Speaking about Fat Monkey and the festival, Matt, from Wigan, said: "There can be a lot of negativity about rugby league at times, so we wanted to show all the good that goes on in the sport.

"There is so much activity going on in the junior and amateur game at the weekend, so we wanted to give kids the opportunity to see their name up in lights and their highlights showcased on social media.

"We've been to various clubs to film videos and content, and then the project spread like wildfire. After a conversation about a potential charity game, this is where the idea for the festival spiralled.

"There has been amazing support from the amateur clubs, sponsors, and individuals, so hopefully this can showcase all the best of our sport."

A host of activities, sports, and live entertainment will take place at Leigh Miners (Image: Matt Parry) Information about the Fat Monkey rugby festival, including tickets and merchandise, can be found here.

(Image: Matt Parry)