Through collective efforts across our regional rugby league footprints of Group 9 (Wagga Wagga region) and Group 16 (Far South Coast NSW), the Raiders Foundation has been able to give back $28,000 to these rugby league communities during 2023.
The donations were made possible from the time and efforts spent organising the 2023 Canberra Raiders v Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs trial with Group 16 which was held in Moruya on Saturday 12 February 2023 at Ack Weyman Oval and the 100th anniversary celebrations for Group 9 which took place during the week leading into the NRL Round 9 game at Wagga Wagga, when the Canberra Raiders took on the Redcliffe Dolphins on Saturday 29 April 2023.
The Raiders Foundation were the match day sponsor for this game and proceeds went to Group 9.
President of Group 16, Ross Griffiths said the trial match at Moruya was a big success.
“What a fantastic outcome and a fantastic day for rugby league on the South Coast. A great atmosphere and some entertaining footy," Griffiths said.
"The interaction with players, staff and fans was amazing. There was a huge buzz around the ground that day, and the week following.
"Group 16 saw an 18% increase in registrations in 2023 with a retention rate of 80%, the fourth highest in NSW. I can definitely see a correlation between our numbers and bringing the NRL to the South Coast.
The Raiders Foundation donation the will help us accomplish our goals moving forward.”
Group 9 have nearly 1,200 participants, which makes it one of the largest groups within NSWRL.
Group 16 have 11 Clubs across seniors and juniors and their footprint covers the area from Batemans Bay down to Eden.
To find out more about the Raiders Foundation visit - https://www.raiders.com.au/community/
