Reduce Reoffending: Dons help put inmates on right path with prison programme

The Dons are proud to shape lives for the better off the pitch with the Reduce Reoffending programme.

Delivered by chief executive Carl Hall, Dons players Suaia Matagi and Pauli Pauli and former player Quentin Laulu-Togaga'e, the programme works with prisoners to help them become better versions of themselves as they progress towards reentering society.

Using rugby league as a conduit, Reduce Reoffending is designed to help change mindsets and set achievable goals in order for prisoners to leave their past behind them and not make similar mistakes in the future.

During delivery, Suaia himself provides inspiration as he draws upon his own life experience. He was handed a three-year prison sentence at 17 and only took up rugby league for the first time after being released, before going on to play in the Australian top flight and switching across to England.

He said: “It’s an eight-week programme and the first week is always the hardest because it’s about building the trust of those taking part and trying to break down the walls that they inevitably and understandably have put up.

“But once I share my journey with them and show them through my experiences that they can change their lives and have a better future, you start to see the trust and hope coming through.

“We encourage them to take responsibility and ownership of their actions and their lives and it’s incredibly humbling to see people who don’t think they can change actually be changed.

“It’s been amazing to see everyone get engaged with the programme and I think the way it’s delivered by Carl, Pauli, QLT and myself, drawing on our own life experiences is a big part of that.

“The feedback we’ve had from those that have left prison and changed their outlook on life is so humbling and I’m really looking forward to the programme growing in the future.”

The programme has already been delivered in multiple prisons across the north, including HMP Lindholme, for whom staff have pledged their continued commitment.

Officer Carl Calvert said: “I’d like to thank the Dons for delivering an outstanding course at HMP Lindholme.

“Carl and the players have been excellent in utilising the great sport of rugby league alongside team building and encouraging people to talk about themselves, develop self esteem and confidence.

“People attending the course have developed both individually and as part of a team. There is also superb after care from Carl and the players, which directly helps people lead law-abiding lives after serving their sentence.

“I cannot recommend the course enough and look forward to welcoming the Dons back to Lindholme on a regular basis.”

Mixing active rugby league sessions with discussions and goal-setting, the eight-week programme also encourages participants to step out of their comfort zone - including by performing the traditional Samoan Siva Tau.

Carl said: “The message to the participants is always simple - when you walk out of the gates, pick the ball up, run it straight and don’t look back.

“We’re aiming to help them have a fresh start and that leaving prison is only the beginning for them. We tell them the second half is still theirs to play and it’s up to them how they do it.

“I’m proud of how the participants have embraced the programme and not only taken things on board themselves but also supported each other.

“It has been amazing to follow the progress of some of those that have come out of prison and taken our messaging forward.

“There’s so much more work to do and we’re really excited for the future.”