Dacia Community Hero of the Month: Paul Shepherd

28 Jun 2021

Dacia Community Hero of the Month: Paul Shepherd

Mr Paul Shepherd has been named May’s Dacia Community Hero of the Month for his invaluable contributions to Women’s Rugby League.

Congratulations and thank you to Paul, who has taken home the trophy and will be heading to Newcastle this September for Magic Weekend, courtesy of Dacia.

Paul coaches two girls and one open age women’s rugby team at Methley Warriors. He first started up an under 12s team that have stayed with the sport and are now into their 2nd full year at under 14s - reflecting what a beloved coach Paul has become within his community. This year Paul has also started up an under 16s team as well as an open age women's team, ensuring rugby league is available to all.

His nominator, whose daughter began her rugby league journey two years ago in the U12s group told us: “I think every night he has some sort of training for the girls, then games on a weekend so it obviously takes up a vast amount of time. 

"Becky, his partner, has a massive role in helping run the teams, as do the other coaches that help out, but he is there to help the girls improve and gain the confidence to play the game, as many have never played before. 

"I just wanted to say a massive thank you to everyone who helps make the woman's game grow, but especially Paul, who lives and breathes rugby league in the community."

 Steve McCormack, Head of Welfare at Rugby League Cares, selected the winner and said: "Congratulations to Paul for winning the Community Hero of the month. Paul is a fantastic example of how important our Community Coaches are to our game. 

"Paul dedicates his time and effort to a number of teams at Methley Warriors and this award is brilliant recognition for all the hard work he and his partner Becky put in. Well done Paul."

Thank you to everyone who nominated their Hero, and of course to all the nominees for their selfless gestures and hard work within their local areas. 

Have someone you want to nominate? If so, you and the winner could be joining previous winners Erica and Paul at this year’s Dacia Magic Weekend. Keep an eye out on the Dacia Community Hero of the Month page for next Month’s voting to open.