Royal Australian Navy Rugby League
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| Contact | navysport.league@defence.gov.au |
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Rugby League has long been considered the premier team football code throughout Australia, and is played worldwide. The game crosses commercial, political and demographic borders with ease; it encourages fitness and fosters the type of teamwork and camaraderie sought by the Australian Defence Force. The Royal Australian Navy recognises these benefits and harnesses them through the RAN Rugby League (RANRL) Committee.
History
In 2003 Navy hosted the inaugural National Services title in Canberra and had its constitution approved in Jun 03 with the Honorary Patrons - VADM Chris Ritchie AO and Mr. Laurie Daley both attending the Patrons Cup at North Sydney Oval. The Patrons Cup is now an annual event on the Navy Sporting Calendar. Players selected from the Patrons Cup represent Navy in the annual Ferris Ashton Challenge which is played as the curtain raiser to the NSW Police Grandfinal; the Defence Combined Services Carnival (won by Navy in 2004) and in regular games against overseas touring sides.
Today and Tomorrow
RANRL proudly fosters Rugby League at all levels within the Navy, the Defence Force and the community. Navy has a team playing in the civilian competition in Canberra and has plans to put a second team in the Nowra competition. In conjunction we have numerous talented players who play in first grade competitions, are state representatives and NRL squad members. Navy has already received an offer from the Royal Navy and the American National Rugby League (AMNRL) team (Tomahawks) to tour. A tour to the UK is currently planned for Sep 2008.
