Gunnedah’s Red Chief Warriors are charging into history this weekend, unveiling their first-ever 25-man squad as they prepare to take on the state’s best at the 2025 Koori Knockout in Tamworth.
It’s a landmark moment for the club and for the New England region, with 63 men’s teams locked in for a tournament that has become one of the most important events on the Aboriginal sporting calendar. For the Warriors, though, this debut is about far more than football.
“It gives us the opportunity to represent who we are, and where we are from, to bring us all together as a community,” said Red Chief Warriors player Coen Wilson.
The team brings together a powerful mix of experience and emerging talent, drawing players from across the region. From Horton marshalling the backline to Orcher and Johnson providing strength through the middle, and the Foley and Matthews families adding to the forward pack, the Warriors’ squad is a showcase of local pride and talent.
Assistant coach Raymond Te Awa said the energy and commitment from the squad has been inspiring.
“Credit to all the local boys for stepping up – they will be out there to play, and us on the coaching side of things are happy to see their dedication. It’s our first year in the comp.”
The Koori Knockout is as much a celebration of culture and community as it is a battle for glory. For the Red Chief Warriors, the mission is clear: play for Country, play for family, and make a statement in their debut appearance.
“We will see how we go; the knockout isn’t going anywhere, but the boys playing for the Red Chief Warriors are here to stay, so watch this space,” said Te Awa.
For Wilson, the fact the Knockout is being played close to home gives the team even more motivation to deliver.
“With the knockout being at Tamworth, it’s pretty much on home soil – the boys will want to go out there and give everything,” he said.
The Warriors are approaching their first campaign with ambition and perspective.
“We want to lead by example for our young players,” said Wilson.
“It’s our first year in the comp, so just hoping we learn and build from it as a team,” he said.
Around 30,000 fans from across New South Wales are expected to flock to Tamworth for the event, which will see a record 170 teams compete across four days in its 53rd year. Motorists are being urged to plan ahead, with heavier traffic and road restrictions expected around the event precinct.
The NSW Koori Knockout runs from Friday, 3 October to Monday, 6 October at the Plain Street Sporting Fields and Riverside Sporting Complex in Tamworth, with matches kicking off daily from 8am. Entry is available at the gate with day passes or weekend tickets on offer.
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