The NRL will thank its most valued supporters and volunteers when it celebrates the Men of League Round this weekend (Round 20).
The round recognises the many people who, through the Men of League Foundation, dedicate their time and resources to helping those who have fallen on hard times.
Established in 2002, the Men of League Foundation has assisted thousands of players, coaches, referees, officials, administrators and importantly, their families, through difficult times.
Men of League Round provides an opportunity for the game and fans to recognise the efforts of the Men of League volunteers, welfare officers and staff, together with raising awareness and ongoing funds for the Foundation to deliver invaluable services and support.
NRL CEO Todd Greenberg said the Foundation was not just about supporting retired players, but importantly, the Foundation provided a vital level of care and assistance for many men, women and children connected to the game.
"Our game has thousands of players, coaches and officials from grassroots through to the elite level and retired. Every now and then, members of our Rugby League communities need our support and care when facing difficulties and tough times," Mr Greenberg said.
"The Men of League Foundation is a wonderful example of the good in our game and I encourage every one of our fans to consider either joining the Foundation or supporting the efforts of local committees, to ensure that together, we continue to care for one another off the field."
Recently appointed Men of League CEO Peter Collins said the Men of League Round was an important opportunity for the Foundation to profile its work and supporters within communities, as well as encouraging fans to get behind their local Men of League committees.
"Rugby League is blessed to have such generous fans who never give up on their team and never hesitate to lend a hand when those around them are doing it tough," Mr Collins said.
"The Men of League Foundation is committed to ensuring that those who are a part of or have been a part of our game at any level are supported when they need it most."
All NRL matches and Clubs are supporting the Men of League Foundation
Round to help raise awareness and funds. Support includes:
- Men of League signage on-field and at matches
- Referees wearing Men of League jerseys
- Broncos, Titans, Eels, Sharks, Wests Tigers and Sea Eagles players will wear Men of League socks for their matches
- Men of League volunteers acknowledged on ground
Men of League volunteers will also be at grounds handing out clap banners to fans and collecting donations.
Fans can purchase playing socks as well as other merchandise online at menofleague.com
Fans also have the option of donating to the Foundation online.
Men of League Round commences on Thursday 21 July with the match between the Cowboys and Bulldogs in Townsville and runs through to Monday night football, which will see the Rabbitohs take on the Sea Eagles in Sydney.
Fans are encouraged to show their support for the round by using the social hashtag #MenOfLeague.
Men of League Foundation
- Established in 2002 by Rugby League greats Ron Coote AM, Jim Hall and Max Brown
- More than 29,000 members nation-wide
- More than 500 active volunteers nation-wide
- Conduct more than 150 events annually to raise awareness and support
- 40 local committees established nation-wide
- Welfare officers provide more than 5,000 hours annually to members who are ill or socially disadvantaged
- The Foundation has dispensed over $4.5 million dollars in benevolent assistance since 2002, supporting men, women and children of all ages and from all parts of the game who have suffered injury or illness and have found themselves suffering from financial hardship
