Sydney Roosters’ PDRL team finally lands a sponsor – but it’s only a start

The Sydney Roosters’ Physical Disability Rugby League (PDRL) team has taken an important step forward, securing its first-ever sponsor through disability services provider KD Community. The partnership means players will finally run onto the field in their own uniforms and with proper team branding, marking a milestone for visibility and recognition.

Why this matters

For too long, disability sporting teams have had to operate with limited resources, often relying on hand-me-downs or community fundraising just to take part. Sponsorship isn’t only about financial support – it’s about dignity, sustainability, and showing that athletes with disability deserve the same level of respect as any other team.

Beyond one sponsor

While KD Community’s support is a welcome breakthrough, the bigger picture is clear: disability inclusion in sport needs broader backing. Major sporting organisations, corporate sponsors, media, and government all play a role in making sure athletes with disability are properly supported.

When disability sport is funded consistently and covered as part of mainstream sport, players are seen for their skill, commitment, and teamwork – not simply their resilience. That’s how genuine inclusion is built.

Looking ahead

The Roosters’ sponsorship deal should be a catalyst for more investment across disability sport. Sporting bodies can prioritise inclusion in budgets and pathways, businesses can actively seek opportunities to back disability teams, and governments can create funding frameworks that make accessibility a standard, not an afterthought.

A step toward true inclusion

This new partnership is worth celebrating. It shows what’s possible when community-minded organisations step up. But the real win will come when disability teams don’t need to rely on “firsts” like this – because proper recognition, support, and sponsorship are already part of the system.