The NRL has launched a new national campaign to get more boys, girls and adults playing rugby league in 2020.
The campaign, developed in-line with recent global research on positive participation habits and environments, is focussed on showcasing how playing rugby league creates strong, confident kids and mates for life.
Simple, thought-provoking copy has been paired with vibrant colours and imagery to easily demonstrate that the benefits of playing rugby league aren’t limited to the footy field.
Professor of Sports Psychology and Coaching at the University of Queensland Cliff Mallett believes the NRL’s approach to community rugby league participation, particularly at a junior level, is world-leading.
“Kids play sport to primarily be with their mates, so social needs are critical to keeping kids in sport,” Professor Cliff Mallett said.
“Whilst they still want to get better, primarily for many kids playing with their friends is the most important thing.''
The former Olympic track-and-field coach, who worked as a psychologist during the Cowboys 2015 premiership, said the focus should always be about having fun first and foremost.
“What rugby league is trying to focus on is if you make it fun, if people are with their friends, they are learning in positive ways,” he said.
The campaign can be viewed on throughout the country, as well as online, on social media and at the hundreds of community rugby league clubs around Australia.
To join the league of strong and confident individuals playing community rugby league in 2020, head to playrugbyleague.com/