Kate Middleton recently took part in a Rugby League Inclusivity Day in her royal role as patron of the Rugby Football League, but a minor injury has sparked concerns about her health.
Since summer ended, the royals have been busy with their duties. Prince William made a huge splash in the US with his Earthshot Prize event and now Kate Middleton has embarked on an inspiring journey to Hull, England, where she joined a training session with the England Wheelchair Rugby League team. Despite a minor injury, Kate, 41, was all in when it was time to hit the court.
Second injury in just one month
The Princess, dressed in a Rugby League tracksuit and trainers, was in high spirits as she interacted with the teams. Upon her arrival at the venue, observers couldn't help but notice that two fingers on Kate's right hand were once again wrapped in bandages. Kate is due to a take a break from Royal duties, but well-wishers will be relieved to hear it's not because of the injury.
This recurrence came just a month after the same two fingers were covered during her visit to a Surrey prison. As per The Mirror, the injury in question occurred while Kate was trampolining with her children, Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, 8, and Prince Louis, 5. A spokesperson from Kensington Palace had earlier confirmed that it was a minor injury, reassuring everyone that there was nothing serious to worry about.
The bandaging on this occasion, it was revealed, was purely a precautionary measure in anticipation of the physical activities she would be partaking in. A spokesperson for Kensington Palace tells PEOPLE that 'following her minor hand injury recently, it was taped up as a bit of a precaution.'
Kate's participation in the game
Despite her injury, Kate was eager to immerse herself in the rugby game. She expressed her concerns about her fingers but, in her typical resilient fashion, was more than willing to try her best. The royal patron of the Rugby Football League, Kate, also had the opportunity to engage with various facets of the rugby community during her visit, and also took part in ball drills with both team. England Wheelchair Rugby League coach Tom Coyd was impressed by her ability and told the Daily Mail:
'I'm not just saying this because it's her, but it's the first time I've ever seen anyone score a conversion at their first attempt. I think she's been having secret practice sessions before coming here because she was a natural.'
As per PEOPLE, Kate met with representatives from the Disability Rugby League, Physical Disability Rugby League (PDRL), and Learning Disability Rugby League (LDRL). These specialized leagues have adapted the game to make it more accessible, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds and abilities to participate fully.
Kate Middleton's passion for sports
Wheelchair Rugby League holds a special place in her heart due to its status as the most inclusive format across rugby league, where players of all genders and abilities can compete together.
In November of the previous year, England had the honor of hosting the Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup, where they beat their old rivals and reigning champions France 28-24 in a closely fought final. Later in January, the Princess marked their victory by extending an invitation to the squad for a reception at Hampton Court Palace. During this event, she shared that she, along with William and their three children, had avidly watched the final match on television, and youngest son Louis is a big fan of the sports.
This visit to Hull was part of Kate's ongoing responsibilities as the patron of the Rugby Football League, a role she took over from her brother-in-law, Prince Harry, when he stepped back from royal duties. The princess has a long history of being a staunch advocate for rugby and is widely recognized as a passionate enthusiast of various sports, especially tennis.
The Hull engagement is just one example of Kate's busy schedule this week, filled with charitable and commemorative activities. Earlier in the week, she and Prince William marked Black History Month by honoring the Windrush generation in Cardiff. Kate also demonstrated her support for Ukrainian refugees by assisting in packing aid parcels during a visit to a community hub in Bracknell, where she left a heartfelt message of support.
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