Published: 23rd March 2026
The Ronan Costello Festival returns to the Accu Stadium for a second year
Ten years on from the passing of academy graduate Ronan Costello, the Giants’ junior rugby festival in memory of Ronan will take place on the playing surface of the Accu Stadium on Saturday 2nd May, ahead of the first team’s Round 10 Betfred Super League fixture against Warrington Wolves.
The festival is a legacy created to remember Ronan’s life, bringing community clubs from around the region with players and staff participating in competitive small sided fixtures, all in memory of Ronan.
Open to junior community clubs in the age groups of U7’s, U8’s and U’9s, the festival will fall at the beginning of May on Saturday 2nd.
Ronan was a talented Giants Academy player, sadly losing his life while playing for the Giants Under 19 team in 2016. Passionate about the game of Rugby League and the community it creates, this event is a source of Rugby League togetherness which welcomes hundreds of players, year on year.
We welcome all community clubs in the region to register your teams (which includes a donation entry fee of £40), The event will include food after the festival followed by the first team fixture at 8pm, where the all participating clubs will conduct a parade at half time!
YOU CAN REGISTER YOUR COMMUNITY CLUB TEAM HERE
Please note: Parents can purchase tickets at the heavily discounted price of £5 per adult and free for children as this also entitles entry to the Betfred Super League fixture against Warrington Wolves, 20:00 KO.
FULL DETAILS
A tribute from Nichola Smorthit, Martin Costello and Chloe Costello
“2026 marks the ten year anniversary of the loss of our son Ronan Costello. He’s forever in our hearts and always in our memory – an eternal Giant.
Our family would like to share our gratitude to The Giants, who continue to support us by keeping Ronan’s memory alive.
The festival brings families together, it is a community event which invites local people to participate in activities that encourage connection and purpose. It encourages youngsters and teaches them the value of team work, loyalty and respect for others.
These were all of Ronan’s qualities.
We look forward to continuing to celebrate Ronan’s life by attending the festival and thanking those that continue to support us and the Giants with such a wonderful cause.
The event is a great day for the kids and community to enjoy and have loads of fun!”
Jordan Foster, Head of Community adds:
‘It’s incredibly important for both the Club & Community Trust to continue honouring Ronan’s memory, and to do that alongside Ronan’s family makes the festival even more special.
Last year’s event at the Accu Stadium was a really proud occasion, seeing so many young players come together in Ronan’s name and creating lasting memories for everyone involved, especially his family. It’s a chance for the rugby league community to come together once again, not just to play the game, but to remember Ronan and support those closest to him’.
If you have any question regarding the festival please direct contact Jordan Foster – jordan@hgct.co.uk
