Thousands of young Rugby League players across New South Wales are celebrating a milestone in their Rugby League journey, with TackleReady Graduation Gala Days becoming a memorable reward for completing the nationwide introduction program.
Delivered as part of the National Player Development Framework, the six-session program equips young players with the correct and safe tackling techniques before they transition into tackle Rugby League.
Across the state, local leagues and associations are now marking the completion of the program achievement with Graduation Gala Day, giving players the chance to pull on their boots at iconic venues, play under lights or experience the excitement of an NRL game day alongside their teammates, coaches and families.
“Graduating from TackleReady is a significant milestone because it helps prepare our young players to build confidence in their transition into tackle Rugby League,” NSWRL Head of Community Rugby League Peter Clarke said.
“The Gala Days create lasting memories that celebrate the graduates and highlight the outstanding work being done by our local leagues, clubs, accredited coaches, volunteers, staff and NRL Development Officers in delivering the program.”
More than 6300 Under 7s players have registered across NSW this season, representing a 7.8 per cent increase from 2025. More than 2100 of those are new to the game, while female participation in the age group has almost doubled since 2022 and grown by more than 21 per cent over the past year.
Across the broader four-to-seven-year-old category, participation has increased by a near 10 per cent, with strong growth across both metropolitan and regional areas.
“The continued participation growth we’re seeing across New South Wales and the ACT shows that families have confidence in Rugby League and the positive environment it creates for young players entering our game,” Clarke said.
Graduation Gala Days have been held across the state in recent weeks, with each event giving participants a unique Rugby League experience.
Group 4 Junior Rugby League hosted its first graduation event under Friday night lights at Scully Park in Tamworth, while more than 560 players from Western Suburbs Macarthur District Junior Rugby League and Group 6 celebrated together at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.
McDonald Jones Stadium, WIN Stadium, Central Coast Stadium and North Sydney Oval are among other elite facilities to host the grassroots gala days, with many players receiving commemorative jerseys or shirts to mark the occasion. More celebrations will continue this week at 4 Pines Park and as part of an NRL/NRLW game day at Kogarah.
