Leeds Rhinos fans taking the plunge in Las Vegas: how Hull KR game is excuse for perfect match
Las Vegas is a long way to travel from Leeds for a game of rugby league so some fans are making the most of their trip.
Three Rhinos supporters are taking part in a dive for charity during their stay in Nevada, while another couple will get married after Saturday’s Betfred Super League match against Hull KR. Rhinos fan Mick Stubbs, who admits he is “petrified of heights”, has raised £2,500 - from an original target of £500 - after deciding to jump out of a perfectly safe aircraft during his visit to the United States.
He explained: “I've been talked into doing a sky dive, along with two of my friends, Mick Sewell and Jamie Patton. I am making sure I don't back out by doing it to raise some money for Sheffield Children's Hospital.
“This hospital holds a special place in my heart as they saved my daughter’s life when she was four years old. I always said I would try to do something for the charity so this is it and I'm hoping to drum up some courage and support in the form of donations.”
Taking the plunge of a different kind are Leeds fans Adele and Jordan, who will tie the knot in Vegas the day after the game. Adele, 29, from Halifax, set: “I have wanted a Vegas wedding since I visited with my mum 10 years ago, but must say I never envisaged sharing my wedding with the Rhinos.
“I think combining watching rugby with getting married is what tipped Jordan over the edge into proposing. I couldn't be happier, it will be a wonderful trip and experience for our families and friends and, of course, a Rhinos win on Saturday will be the cherry on top of our wedding cake.”
Jordan, 29, also from Halifax, added: “I had wanted to pop the question for a while, but hadn't quite found the courage or the moment. I promised our parents I would pop the question if Leeds got the Vegas game, though I secretly knew it was likely and the game being announced in Las Vegas gave me the final push I needed, although I did buy the tickets before the ring or proposing.
“Adele has always wanted a wedding in the Little Chapel and we both love our rugby so it is a perfect match. I have already won the lottery in meeting Adele and in her agreeing to marry me, but doing so with the Rhinos makes it even better.”
Jordan has booked 29 tickets for the match. Adele’s stepfather Craig Oates said: “We are all looking forward to celebrating their magic week in Vegas. As a St Helens-born lad I am looking forward to celebrating in a Rhinos shirt with them.”
The Yorkshire Evening Post’s coverage of Leeds Rhinos in Las Vegas is in association with Betfred Super League. Saturday’s showdown between Rhinos and Hull KR at Allegiant Stadium is an early highlight of a packed year of club rugby league action which also includes the Challenge Cup final at Wembley on May 30, Magic Weekend’s blockbuster return to Everton FC’s Hill Dickinson Stadium on July 4-5 and the Super League Grand Final on October 3 at Old Trafford. Experience live Super League. League Hits Different. To guarantee your place, visit Super League | Tickets.