What It Means To Me

Growing up in Sydney, I was surrounded by Rugby League from a young age. State of Origin is arguably the pinnacle of the sport, with the spectacle of the series being a significant part of my early interest. I vividly remember watching Brad Fittler, a Sydney Roosters and NSW Blues legend, scoring the game-winning try in State of Origin with my family. That moment cemented itself in my early memories and developed the strong connection I felt towards the sport. The highs and lows shared with my family and friends through the years have created memories and connections I won’t soon forget. NSW clubs make up the majority of the competition, creating fierce rivalries and tribalism between neighbouring suburbs. None more bitter and historic than the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Sydney Roosters. This rivalry dates back to 1908 and continues to be a grudge match I look forward to every season.

 

Growing up, I wasn’t just content to watch from the sidelines anymore and picked up the sport. The physicality, skill and strength required helped me appreciate the talent of the players I would watch every weekend and the fortitude it takes to play on the big stage. Playing the sport provided me with lifelong friendships and developed who I am as a person. While I don’t play Rugby League these days, I have transferred the skills I learnt to a non-contact version of the sport called OzTag, allowing me to continue playing the sport I love with less of the impact that is associated with it. 

 

Another element of the game that has had me hooked over the last few years is fantasy football, namely SuperCoach. This game runs during the regular season in which you pick your team of NRL players and compete against your friends to see whose team scores the best. This game is a test of strategy, game knowledge and trade management which provides an entertaining and competitive challenge to be undertaken with friends and family. This new dynamic of the game has significantly changed how I enjoy the sport and my focus while watching, while also scratching my competitive itch.

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Overall, the connections I have developed through playing, watching and even participating in fantasy leagues are what drives my passion for Rugby League and have developed it into a lifelong passion. I find there’s always something to talk about with fellow fans and makes building new, lasting friendships that much easier.