Close to 150 NRL and State League staff joined hundreds of junior rugby league clubs recently as the code participated in their annual ‘back to the juniors’ day’.
NRL CEO Todd Greenberg was joined by NRL Head of Football Brian Canavan and a host of others as they helped mark out fields, assist with BBQs, run water to teams and support local officials.
NRL referees also lent a hand, assisting with match day duties and providing plenty of encouragement to budding referees and match officials.
This was the fourth year that the NRL has shone a light on the tireless efforts that thousands in communities across Australia deliver year-round to ensure that junior rugby league continues to thrive.
“The back to the juniors’ initiative reminds all of us fortunate to be involved in rugby league of the enormous commitment that many parents and volunteers provide to help grow our game,” Mr Canavan said.
“It is important that we continue to acknowledge and support grassroots rugby league. Those players, coaches, referees and officials are the spirit and future of our game.”
Leading NRL referee Matt Cecchin went back to the juniors to give his advice and to help out.