Players, the NRL, Clubs, sponsors and fans will honour past and present service men and women during round eight – ANZAC Round – as the code pauses to remember and thank those who have served in military service both here and abroad.
Short remembrance services will take place prior to matches across the round, with the NRL continuing its partnership with the Returned Services League (RSL) as it commemorates its 100th anniversary this year.
Special ticket offers will be available across ANZAC Round for current and ex service personnel and RSL members with formal identification, wishing to attend matches. Further information on specific match commemorations and ticket offers can be found on Club websites.
Sponsors will also pay respects across the round, with Telstra, Bundaberg Rum, Carlton and United Breweries and Hankook Tyres Australia dedicating their ground signage to remembering the ANZAC legend and RSL support.
NRL CEO Todd Greenberg said the ANZAC Round was an occasion to reflect on the enormous sacrifices that so many Australians and New Zealanders have made and are making both here and abroad.
“Our service men and women make the ultimate commitment to ensure our freedom and quality of life – which includes being able to go to the footy and freely celebrate together,” Mr Greenberg said.
“I will be one of thousands of fans across the round pausing to pay respect to our ultimate service heroes, from our ANZACs right through to all who have bravely fought since.”
RSL NSW CEO Glenn Kolomeitz thanked the NRL and fans for their ongoing support and remembrance of such an important occasion and looked forward to the round.
“Rugby League provides so much joy for so many Australians and I am encouraged by the enormous will to support and remember our past and present service men and women as part of the NRL ANZAC Round,” Mr Kolomeitz said.
The RSL will be collecting funds at matches to help support retired service personnel and their families. Fans are urged to donate by purchasing a remembrance badge.
