North Wales Crusaders rally round Massam

North Wales Crusaders are raising money to ensure that winger Rob Massam can stay with the Wales World Cup squad.

A part-time player, Massam will not be able to continue with his job as a self employed personal trainer during the six week camp, seeing his income disappear completely during his time in camp.

But he still has a £550 per month gym rental bill to cover, and Crusaders have stepped in to help with the fundraising efforts.

A club spokesman said: “Reaching the World Cup is a pinnacle for any normal full-time player, but is especially remarkable for part-time players who have to balance their jobs with training and preparation – let alone the fact they have made the grade without the benefit a full-time environment.

“It is a further sacrifice that once they’ve reached this level, they ultimately lose money by entering camp. The six weeks spent in the World Cup will be costly and whilst fulltime players continue to be paid throughout the tournament by their domestic clubs, part-time players have to take time away from their jobs.

“Whilst Rob has saved his own money diligently to cover his loss of earnings, the continued costs that Rob is incurring whilst away threaten his ability to stay in camp throughout the tournament and he is in a position where he has voiced concerns about having to withdraw.

“We believe it would be absolutely criminal for a player who has worked so hard to be denied their moment to shine on the World Stage – and also do not want Rob to suffer the worry of being able to meet his bills when he should be concentrating on the game.

“As a club we have, therefore, decided to donate £350 towards Rob’s rent bill of £1,100 – to enable him to stay in Camp.”

The club is now calling on rugby league fans to help raise a further £800 to ensure Massam’s participation in the World Cup.