The ManVan to make its rugby league debut at Magic Weekend

The ManVan, a unique travelling interactive exhibition that tackles men’s health issues, will make its Rugby League debut at the Super League Magic Weekend in Newcastle this week.

Driven in partnership between the Movember Foundation and Rugby League Cares, the ManVan offers Rugby League fans the chance to get involved in fun and interesting activities designed to get men engaging with their health.

Fans will have the chance to take a selfie in the Trophy Room, an area packed with some amazing Rugby League heritage; receive a haircut or shave from a top-notch barber, Barber B; and try their luck at the Wheel of Fortune and Buzzwire MoGame.

The ManVan roadshow will also visit major Rugby League events and club matches between May and November, encouraging men to talk and take action to improve their physical and mental well-being.

Many of the towns and cities it visits are in regions which face serious health challenges, including life expectancies that are lower than the national average and statistically higher than average rates of cancer and heart disease.

The aim of the ManVan is to empower men with the awareness, knowledge and resources to take positive action for their health, to achieve their fullest life potential and ultimately, to stop too many men dying too young. This addresses issues such as being aware of physical and mental risks they face, recognising any symptoms of being unwell, and encouraging men to take early action.

Emma Goldsmith, the health Projects Manager for Rugby League Cares, said: “We are really excited to be involved with the ManVan and are looking forward to working with the Movember Foundation to make a positive difference to the lives of men at all levels of Rugby League.

“The ManVan is a great way for fans to pick up some useful information about how they can improve their physical and mental wellbeing in a relaxed environment where the emphasis is very much about fun and celebrating the sport’s heritage.”

Owen Sharp, the CEO of the Movember Foundation, said: “The ManVan is a great example of where we have invested money raised by our community.

“We are going to where men are, at Rugby League games across the country, to spark important health conversations and help men take action on their physical and mental health.

“Partnering with Rugby League Cares on this initiative allows us to deliver a fun experience for rugby fans than can also save lives.”

The ManVan will be situated on Strawberry Place adjacent to St James’s Park throughout Magic Weekend, Saturday and Sunday May 19 and 20, when fans from all clubs and all ages are guaranteed a warm welcome.

The ManVan will also be at the following Rugby League events: