Jordan Andrade, a Youth Engagement Officer at Kirklees Council has been picked to represent Jamaica in the Rugby League World Cup.
Kirklees are hosting the men’s quarter final at The John Smith’s Stadium on Friday 4 November and if Jamaica are successful in the group stages, they will play their quarter final match in Huddersfield.
Jordan, who works with vulnerable young people in our communities, first got into rugby at 10 years old but never really excelled.
As a teenager he joined the RAF and started playing rugby there, where he significantly improved his game to the point where he got signed by League One side Oxford. As his game improved further Jordan tried out for Salford Red Devils and was offered a contract. Since then, Jordan has played for Bradford Bulls, Dewsbury Rams and Hunslet and now his present club Oldham Rugby League Football Club.
At the age of 30 he is nearing the end of his rugby career so is thrilled to have been picked for the Jamaican team and represent his heritage on the field.
Jordan, who is excited to have his wife, children and parents supporting him at the tournament, said,
“Wearing a Jamaican shirt on the field will be a great honour, and not something us Jamaican boys take lightly. When we wear that shirt, we are all brothers and will do anything for one another. The family bond which we create on camp and on the field is like no other I have experienced on a rugby pitch. That is why it is an honour not only for me but for anyone lucky enough to have that put that jersey on.”
In the run up to the Rugby League World Cup, Jordan and the Jamaican team will be coming to Huddersfield as part of their training to run rugby holiday camps in October half term for young children to get involved in.
Councillor Will Simpson, Cabinet Member for Culture and Greener Kirklees said,
“This is set to be the biggest and best Rugby League World Cup and we’re proud to be a part of that. We’re absolutely delighted to be one of the hosts of the Men’s Quarter final and to have a member of staff playing in the tournament. Huddersfield and rugby league have a very special bond, with the sport being founded here 125 years ago.”
The weekend of the tournament will also see an international food and drink market hosted in St George’s Square from 1pm for both rugby and non-rugby fans to enjoy. There will also an afternoon full of entertainment.
You can buy your tickets for the men’s quarter final match on Friday 4th November now visit- Fixtures and Prices (rlwc2021.com)