Royal Wolf is proud to sponsor the Wiradjuri Warriors for a third year in the NSW Aboriginal Rugby League Knockout Carnival, which marks its 50th anniversary this year.
The four-day carnival will take place in Nowra and Bomaderry from 30 September to 3 October, making a much anticipated comeback after Covid forced the event’s cancellation in 2020 and 2021.
Matches will take place at two venues on the South Coast of New South Wales – Rugby Park and the Bomaderry Sporting Complex – with the winner to host next year’s tournament.
Royal Wolf’s sponsorship provides funds for team uniforms, accommodation, the hiring of medical staff and supplies, as well as events to create bonding opportunities between the Warriors male, female and under-17s players and staff.
“Without Royal Wolf, we probably wouldn’t be in the Knockout,” says Darcy Smith, Wiradjuri Warriors President and Committee member.
“We had a side for a long time, years ago, but then it went by the wayside and we’ve only been back for three years, and Royal Wolf has been involved every year since we’ve returned.
“We need to provide players with everything they need to play and that costs money, obviously. So we want to give a big pat on the back and shout-out to Royal Wolf for all their support because it’s so valuable to us.”
The Wiradjuri Warriors support young players by providing them with an opportunity to play for their home, their mob and with friends and family they grew up with.
“Ninety-five per cent of our players are just local kids,” says Darcy.
“Players must be Aborginal or Torres Strait Islander to be eligible to play and aged 17 years or older. We’ve had people playing before who are in their 50s.”
Played in a sudden-death format, teams will play five matches if they reach the grand final, but a loss means they’re knocked out of the carnival.
The Royal Wolf logo will feature prominently on the Warriors’ playing jerseys again this year.
Royal Wolf managing director Neil Littlewood says the company is delighted to continue its partnership with the Warriors.
“Royal Wolf is proud to extend its support of the Wiradjuri Warriors into a third year and help this great team to compete in this fantastic tournament,” he says.
“We’re honoured to have the Royal Wolf logo featured on the front of the playing jersey, particularly this year, in the competition’s 50th anniversary.
“Everyone at Royal Wolf wishes the Warriors all the best for this year’s tournament and we hope they can win and bring the carnival to Wiradjuri next year.”
Approximately 40,000 spectators attended the last carnival in 2019, with up to 50,000 expected to attend the 50th anniversary.
