Bundaberg Red Cup

Rugby League fans throughout Sydney can look forward to an even better game day experience at their local ground in 2009 following the release of the NSW Cup and Bundaberg Red Cup draws.

The state’s premier open-aged competition, the NSW Cup, this year features 11 teams including newcomers the Shellharbour Dragons.

Fans can expect to see their first-grade heroes regularly competing for NSW Cup sides when not named in their respective NRL sides.

Shellharbour have made the transition from the Bundaberg Red Cup (formerly Jim Beam Cup).

The Bundaberg Red Cup features 10 teams including the WA Reds, who are set to build on a highly successful inaugural year of competition in 2008 and strengthen the game’s link with the west.

Other changes to the competitions include a joint venture between the Sydney Bulls and Bulldogs NRL club competing in both competitions as the Bankstown City Bulls, while the Bundaberg Red Cup welcomes Penrith Brothers to its ranks.

Plans for a heritage match at Birchgrove Oval are in place following the success of Balmain and Western Suburbs’ Centenary clash in April last year.

NSW Rugby League General Manager Geoff Carr said the NSW Cup and Bundaberg Red Cup’s appeal in 2009 would lie in its game-day experience for fans.

“Our competitions offer families an affordable way to see some of the best Rugby League players and teams the state has to offer,” Carr said.

“We remain one of the only competitions in the country featuring several foundation Rugby League clubs that have been competing for 100 years.

“On any weekend fans can enjoy top level Rugby League at nostalgic suburban locations such as Henson Park or picturesque North Sydney Oval.”

Plans to introduce a consistent pricing and match kick-off policy across all venues would make going to the footy even more affordable and convenient, Carr said.