One of the biggest sporting events in regional NSW kicks off in Tamworth this Saturday, 17 May.
The NSW Country Rugby Union Championships presents a weekend of some of the finest rugby union the state has to offer, as well as presenting a great economic boom to the region.
“NSW Rugby has a really rich history, and the Country Championships very likely predate the actual formation of NSW Country Rugby Union.” said President of NSW Country Rugby Union, Luke Stephen.
20 teams will go head-to-head this weekend with representatives from all 9 Zones, and from all three grades (Men’s, Women’s and Colts) being represented.
“The championships offer players in regional NSW who show up and play week in, week out to step up and really show their skills,” said Stephen.
“We will have selectors present and watching the whole weekend and from there we will form three squads (Mens, Corellas and Colts) to go into our training programme later in the year.”
Play is spread across two venues, with Scully Park hosting the Caldwell Cup, and Pirates Rugby Club hosting the Rowlands Colts Cup and the Richardson Sheild. The Thomson Cup games will be spread across both venues.
The schedule for day 1 of fixtures is locked in and has been posted on the NSW Country Rugby Union Facebook page.
Tickets will be available to attend in person at the gate for both venues and games can also be streamed live via NSW Rugby TV.
The event will draw a considerable crowd to the region, with Mr Stephen estimating that there will be approximately 600 players, staff and other representatives, as well as spectator numbers in the 1000s across the weekend.
“It’s always great to hold the Championships in Tamworth and we’re exceptionally grateful for the support of Tamworth Regional Council and Wests Tamworth for their support,” said Stephen.
“I’m really excited to see all the local teams at this year’s event – to see all 9 zones represented in some capacity in the one location is fantastic.”
“Ultimately this is what the weekend is really about – showcasing the best talent that NSW Country Rugby has to offer.”
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