Leicester Tigers are celebrating World Down Syndrome day today, aiming to bring awareness of the most common chromosomal condition and celebrate the work of the club's Down Syndrome rugby programme.

World Down Syndrome Day is held on March 21 each year. The global awareness day has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012 and is chosen as the 21st day of the third month in order to represent the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down Syndrome (DS).

Since October 2023, Leicester Tigers have run inclusive rugby sessions to those with DS, with membership having expanded greatly over the last 18 months. 

There are just under 30 regular attendees at our Sunday sessions, with well over 50 participants of all ages having been involved since the project launched.

That time has seen the team travel host a multitude of sessions, be welcomed into training sessions by the Tigers men's and women's team. enjoy a number of volunteer coaches from senior players and embark on away day trips to Mattioli Woods Welford Road, Sale Sharks Salford Community Stadium and the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Final at Allianz Stadium. 

These efforts are hugely supported not only by the Leicester Tigers Foundation but also by club partner Dyno-Rod, who support the team with securing facilities, staffing, medical costs and providing suitable attire for participants. .

Down Syndrome rugby sessions are still running every other Sunday, starting at 11:30am. The next session is: Sunday, March 30. To find out more about how you can get involved, please get in touch with [email protected].

Additionally, our collaboration with stand out socks are still available to purchase both online and in the club shop and are available HERE. All proceeds go toward the Down Syndrome Rugby programme at Leicester Tigers.