NRL 2022, Indigenous Round, NRL Indigenous Round back to move forward in 2022

Author: NRL Media Release
Timestamp: Tue 24 May 2022, 11:15 AM

The National Rugby League (NRL) today launched its 2022 NRL Indigenous Round, delivered by DoorDash, building on the NRL’s commitment to the Pass Back. Move Forward. theme.

The NRL’s Indigenous Round aims to recognise that greater understanding of Indigenous history and culture is essential in creating a more united future, and to encourage fans to be part of the change.

Throughout the week and across all eight Round 12 matches (26-29 May), the NRL is challenging fans to learn the land and learn the history, through knowledge and respect for the traditional custodians of the land on which they live and experience the game.

Matches at each venue will be preceded by traditional welcome ceremonies, performances and celebrations of Indigenous culture, while the 16 NRL clubs will wear specially designed jerseys for the round, inspired by Indigenous art and storytelling.

Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman, Peter V’landys AM, said: “The NRL Indigenous Round reminds us that we need to continue learning about, celebrating and enhancing Indigenous culture in our game.

“It’s a time to celebrate what Indigenous players have given to Rugby League, but also to recognise and understand the challenges Indigenous communities have faced - and continue to face.

We all need to keep learning so we can be more united. It highlights that Rugby League is the greatest game for all.
ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM

ARL Commissioner Professor Megan Davis said Rugby League’s important role as a bridge between cultures would continue.

“As a game we bring communities and cultures together,” Prof Davis said. “We are breaking down barriers and we are leading the debate for equality.

“The Commission understands the importance of this role and will never undervalue it.”

Wests Tigers players Daine Laurie and Brent Naden at the 2022 Indigenous Round launch. ©NRL Photos

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said investing in strong pathways for Indigenous players, coaches, referees and administrators is a strategic priority for rugby league.

“Indigenous representation in Rugby League continues to be strong, but we need to create even more pathways and leadership opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

“Passionate and talented Indigenous athletes have helped shape the game for decades, we owe it to them to keep building our programs and pathways so that even more young Indigenous Australians can realise their dreams in the NRL and NRLW.”

To help fans discover more about the land and the history, the NRL is hosting a range of stories and resources throughout the week on nrl.com/indigenous. For the first time, this includes information on how fans can support Indigenous businesses.

This content also includes interactive maps to help fans discover which tribes the game’s Indigenous male and female stars are from, and information about Australia’s traditional Indigenous nations and the land they are on.

Alongside the annual NRL Indigenous Round and Harvey Norman All Stars matches, the NRL is in the final year of its fourth ‘elevate’ Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) and remains the only national sporting code to reach this level of RAP.

Suncorp Stadium, home of the Yuggera and Turrbal people. ©NRL Photos

The NRL was also the first national sporting organisation to support the Uluru Statement From the Heart, issued in 2017.

This year’s 2022 NRL Indigenous Round is delivered by DoorDash, who are donating $50,000 to the NRL’s School to Work program, which supports young Indigenous Australians with work experience, mentoring and leadership opportunities to help them successfully complete school and transition into further study, training or employment.