Charity rugby team returns with bigger impact after raising nearly £80,000 for cancer support

After raising an incredible £79,484 in 2024, the Manchester Select Rugby League team is back with even bigger plans - combining charity, community, and cancer awareness through a series of powerful events starting this July.

Manchester Select was founded by Chris Bamber, whose wife Sarah was diagnosed with terminal cancer. In response to devastating personal news, Chris and a group of friends from the rugby league world came together to form a team with a purpose: to raise funds and awareness for The Christie Cancer Charity, the organisation supporting Sarah's treatment. What began as a one-off match has grown into a grassroots movement, rallying the rugby community to raise money, offer support, and save lives.

The next event Manchester Select are hosting is the Christie Cup Rugby League 9s and a Family fun day on Sunday 6th July at Aldwinians RUFC.

The match and fun day will be on 11am until 4pm.

This action-packed day will feature top-tier men's and women's Rugby League 9s, plus music, market stalls, and life-saving health services - all in support of cancer awareness and treatment.

There will also be a special guest appearance from Rugby League legend Vicky Molyneux. Vicky, who has represented both England and Wigan Warriors at the highest level, will be running exclusive coaching clinics for children throughout the day. She will also be presenting the trophies to the winning teams at the end of the tournament a memorable moment for all involved.

The event will also feature live music and DJs, food and drink vendors plus stalls and family entertainment.

In 2024, Manchester Select raised nearly £80,000 for The Christie. This year, the aim is not only to surpass that but also to support families living with stage 4 cancer, including the Boyle family, whose recent diagnosis has touched many in the Rugby League community.