Illawarra Rugby League (IRL) is thrilled to announce its return to NSWRL major competition status in 2025, marking a significant milestone in the growth and development of rugby league within the region.
The move will ensure a six-team competition again next season while the IRL continues to look for opportunities to expand the number of teams in the first-grade competition beyond 2025.
“This achievement has been made possible through the collaborative efforts of all senior clubs, the IRL Board of Management, and the Illawarra District Rugby League (IDRL) working toward a common goal,” said John Brannon, Chairman, Illawarra Rugby League.
“We also extend our gratitude to the NSW Rugby League, particularly to CEO Dave Trodden and Head of Competitions, Yvette Downey, for their confidence in our ability to make this initiative a success.”
“We are delighted to welcome De La Salle back for their fourth consecutive season. Having been minor premiers in 2023 and 2024, De La Salle’s high standard of rugby league is welcome in our competition and their participation enhances its profile.”
While three different clubs have won the first-grade title in the past three years, demonstrating the quality and competitiveness of the Harrigan Premiership, Brannon said one of the key challenges moving forward is transitioning more local clubs to the first-grade competition.
“Three of the top five sides in the Harrigan Plate (reserve grade) in 2024 are Clubs that are not currently fielding first-grade sides, which augers well for the future of our first-grade competition.”
“We also welcomed a new Club, the Avondale Wombats, to our competitions in 2024, and it was pleasing to see them make the finals, in their first year, in both the Harrigan Plate and Harrigan Shield (2nd Division) competitions.”
“Importantly we have adopted the NSW Player Points system, and this will have an important role to play in delivering an even standard across our competition as it grows,” Brannon added.
Brannon took the opportunity to praise Head of Football Brent Pigram, who has been on secondment from NSWRL since delivering a strategic review following the 2023 season.
“On behalf of the IRL, I would like to thank Brent for his outstanding contribution during his time with us; his leadership, vision and persistence have been instrumental in our ongoing revitalisation program.”
“We see this milestone as a vital stepping stone toward strengthening and growing our league. While we have made significant strides, much work remains, and we are committed to continuing to work together with the Clubs and the NSWRL.”