The Cronulla Junior Rugby League (CJRL) kicked off the 2024 season with a spectacular launch event at the Wanda Surf Life Saving Club on Saturday, April 6. The event was attended by players, parents, coaches, officials and fans from the 13 Cronulla JRL clubs, as well as a number of special guests and dignitaries.
The launch began with a live TV cross on the Today Show, where the General Manager of the Cronulla JRL, Chris Bannerman, spoke about the success and growth of the junior league in the Shire.
Behind him, a group of young players aged 3 to 6 participated in some fun games and learning drills, led by representatives from the NRL as well as Blayke Brailey and Sam Stonestreet from the Sharks NRL squad.
The kids had a blast running, passing, and scoring tries, while also getting the chance to appear on live television and meet a couple of their rugby league heroes.
The event then moved upstairs to the Surf Club, where the Chairman of the Cronulla JRL, John Mannah, delivered an acknowledgement of country and a welcome address. He thanked the sponsors, volunteers, clubs and families for their ongoing commitment and support to the junior league.
Dignitaries who attended the launch, included Sharks CEO Dino Mezzatesta, Sutherland Shire Mayor Carmelo Pesce, NSW Parliament Member for Miranda Eleni Petinos, and Federal candidate for Cook, Simon Kennedy.
A couple of them delivered a short speech, congratulating the Cronulla JRL on their success and wishing them all the best for the 2024 season. They also emphasised the importance of junior rugby league for the community, the health and wellbeing of the children, and the development of the sport.
The launch concluded with a photo opportunity, where club captains posed with the Power Waste Management A-Grade Cup, the trophy that will be contested by 10 teams this season.
Club mascots joined in the fun, adding some colour and excitement to the day.
The Cronulla JRL Season Launch 2024 was a great way to celebrate the start of a new season of junior rugby league in the region. With more than 5,500 players registered across 13 clubs in 2023, and a range of competitions and programs for both male and female participants of all ages and abilities, the 2024 season is set to be bigger and better than ever.
The first round of games will kick off on Saturday, April 13, and we can't wait to see the action unfold on the field.
Want to download the high resolution photos from todays event? https://photos.app.goo.gl/SgYTCZx1gqeoE8E57
