THE continued growth of rugby league in regional South Australia and Victoria has seen the National Rugby League (NRL) appoint a full time game development officer to be based in Mount Gambier.
The position will initially service the South East, including Naracoorte, Millicent and Penola, then into Victoria with Horsham and Warrnambool – two areas involved in the Limestone Coast Rugby League competition.
Mount Gambier’s Matthew Grubb has taken on the role and is keen to kick things off.
“I have lived all my life here in the district and have a passion for fitness, health and competition, not only at a personal level but in development at a junior level as well,” he said.
“Having competed in various sports through my life, including MMA and NRL, I know the positive benefits that can be gained from participation in sports and the benefits the great game of Rugby League can provide individuals.”
Grubb said the sport provides various versions, including non-contact tag or touch.
“Rugby League and its variations make the game inclusive for everyone,” he said.
“By offering these different versions of the game we hope that we can make the game accessible to all the community.”
Due to the lack of a rugby league competition in the area, Grubb grew up playing Australian rules football, but found the sport of rugby league offered him his best chance to shine and currently plays for the Blue Lake Knights.
The LCRL competition has continued to gain traction and now boast six teams.
“There will be an emphasis on building the public base of knowledge through school visits and introducing Rugby League and its non-contact variations to as many people as possible,” Grubb said.
“While traditionally not a Rugby League state, there used to be carnivals conducted through the school system back around 2010 and we had a few local representatives in the state SAPSASA and SASSA teams.
“We would like to build that up again.”
NRL state manager Justin Dooley said it was a major appointment.
“It is the first time in South Australia someone has been appointed regionally and gives an indication of the commitment the sport has given to make the game grow in the state,” he said.
“We are so happy to welcome Matt to the role.
“He is an outstanding young man we are proud to have represent our sport.”
