Cardiff Blue Dragons have launched a Wheelchair Rugby League team to add to ever-growing player base in the Welsh capital.

The Cardiff club already runs teams from U9s through to the Men’s open age as well as an over 35s Masters side and a Women’s open age team which contains 12 Welsh internationals.

Former Wales Wheelchair head coach Alana Sargent will take charge of the Blue Dragons.

Sargent said: “I have been hooked on Wheelchair Rugby League since the first time I got involved, especially as it is so alike to the running game, bit with a few well thought out adaptations.

“I am passionate about sports, health, fitness and inclusion and am really honoured and excited to be appointed as head coach for Cardiff Blue Dragons new Wheelchair team.

“With a real vision around equality and inclusion, it’s great to be part of Wales’ biggest Rugby League club’s further expansion.

Head of Development for Cardiff Blue Dragons, Louise Morgan, added: “This is an exciting new chapter in our club’s history.

“Cardiff Blue Dragons exists to push our sport of Rugby League throughout Cardiff and get players of all backgrounds to take part and compete. I’m delighted to welcome our new coach Alana to the dragon family as we continue our expansion.”

Wales Rugby League CEO, Gareth Kear, commented: “A key part of the WRL strategy is to create sustainable Rugby League clubs that offer accessible sport for all. Cardiff Blue Dragons are a perfect example of this.

“As a governing body we are working with Sport Wales to fund the future growth of Wheelchair Rugby League and I look forward to the Blue Dragons developing more international players for us.”