There were plenty of smiles at Derian House’s annual sports day recently, thanks to a special visit from Wigan Warriors rugby stars Patrick Mago and Sam Walters.
The pair joined children and young people for an afternoon of fun as part of Children’s Hospice Week, taking part in the warm-up dance before getting stuck into the egg-and-spoon race and relay race. They cheered everyone on throughout the afternoon, held the finish-line ribbon as winners crossed the line and handed out medals to celebrate everyone’s achievements.
Inclusive Fun Day
The visit is the latest in Wigan Warriors' support for Derian House through the club's 2026 charity partnership with the hospice. Earlier this year, the Warriors raised awareness by launching a special charity kit, hosting a dedicated Derian House match day takeover and unveiling a warm-up jersey designed by the hospice’s own young people.
Derian House’s annual sports day brings together children, young people, families, and staff for an afternoon of inclusive fun, with activities adapted to ensure everyone can take part in a way that works for them. This year's event featured a range of races, including a hockey race, sack race, bean bag race, a relay, and an egg-and-spoon challenge.
“That was brilliant, it was nice of the players to join sports day,” said Liam, 23. “The players made me laugh, and I won a medal,” said Leila, 15.
Wigan Warriors Prop, Patrick Mago, said: “We had a brilliant afternoon at Derian House. It was great to see everyone getting involved in the races, cheering each other on and having a laugh together. Thank you for having us, and we hope everyone has a fantastic Children’s Hospice Week.”
Spreading Joy
Caroline Taylor, deputy chief executive at Derian House Children’s Hospice, said: "Sports day is always one of the highlights of the year at Derian House, and it was fantastic to welcome Patrick and Sam along to join in the fun. Everyone loved meeting the players, and they brought plenty of smiles and laughs.
“Children’s Hospice Week is all about celebrating the incredible children and young people we support, and creating opportunities for families to make special memories together.”
Children’s Hospice Week is the UK's annual awareness week for children's hospice services, celebrating the vital care and support they provide to seriously ill children and young people, and their families.
Derian House Children’s Hospice cares for more than 400 babies, children and young people as well as their families, helping them to make the most of every moment. The Chorley-based charity will cost £6m to run this year, and only receives a small percentage of this from funding.
