NSW Wheelchair Rugby League chairman Edie George has praised the resilience of the teams competing in this year’s NSW Wheelchair Rugby League Grand Final after overcoming a season that was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The competition was suspended after six rounds before recommencing in September for the final two rounds. Canberra Raiders and Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks will contest the NSW Plate at 9.30am and St George Illawarra Dragons and Wests Tigers the NSW Cup at 11am with both Grand Finals to be played at Menai Indoor Sports Centre.
“Everyone was able to do their own training over the break, so they came back in decent shape considering such a long time off,” George told nswrl.com.au.
“We retained all participants and teams despite the competition being put on pause, in fact there was a bigger demand for players to come back and play.
“Overall, it’s really exciting to be able to finish our season and I’m proud of all the players efforts who were persistent and dedicated.”
The competition was split into two divisions with division one including the Wests Tigers, Parramatta Eels, St George Illawarra Dragons and Penrith Panthers and division two Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, Canberra Raiders and Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles.
Tigers’ Jessi Mowczan has been tipped to have an impact on the court after taking part in the NSW Wheelchair pathways programs.
“20 players are selected to train weekly to develop their skills and be prepared to represent NSW when the opportunity presents itself,” George said.
The NSW Wheelchair Rugby League organisation remains hopeful for a State of Origin match-up where the sky blue will look to defend their reign over Queensland after last year’s huge 52-4 defeat.
