Illawarra Division Rugby League has confirmed competitions will be held in 2020 for a 109th consecutive season. The announcement comes after the Division, Clubs and NSWRL have worked closely over recent weeks to ensure rugby league will return safely to the field, despite the impact of Covid-19 on many clubs and teams across the state.
Six clubs will compete in the Open Age Cup including Wests, Thirroul, Helensburgh, Dapto, Corrimal and Avondale.
The Illawarra Division will also be proudly represented at higher levels as the Devils and Butchers will also play in the newly formed NSWRL Presidents Cup, while the Tigers will take up an option to play in the NSWRL Sydney Shield.
The IRL will also conduct Under 18s, and the 2nd Division Shield competitions as well as the South32 Illawarra Women’s League competitions in open age, under 18 and open leaguetag.
The women’s competitions will run in parallel with men’s competitions, commencing on 17 July with Grand Finals held on 26/27 September.
IDRL Board of Management Chairman, Gerry Murphy, confirmed that IDRL has now finalised competition structures to cater for all team nominations, despite a great deal of challenging work to get to this point.
“I am pleased to confirm that Rugby League competitions will resume from 17 July, ensuring we continue our commitment to provide Rugby League for all participants.
In this 2020 season competition structures will look different, and participating clubs will differ, however we are able to provide Rugby League for all clubs and many players who are keen to get back to playing the game they love”, Murphy stated.
“The Open Age Cup competition will truly have a very local flavour with six clubs involved, and provides a great opportunity for talented youngsters to shine”, added Murphy.
