History in the Making: SGNRL Championship Kicks Off This Weekend

A Message from Tony Marshall, President of the Singapore National Rugby League

This weekend marks a monumental chapter in our sporting history as the inaugural SGNRL Championship officially kicks off. Organising a sporting competition in any context is no small task, but launching a completely new sport is an entirely different challenge.  From navigating logistics and governance to building teams from the ground up, bringing the inaugural SGNRL Championship to life has taken an extraordinary collective effort. This weekend’s kickoff isn’t just the start of a season – it’s the realisation of months of hard work.

Reaching this milestone is the direct result of that collective effort, and I want to extend my deepest personal gratitude to every single person who rolled up their sleeves to make this historic moment possible.

To our hardworking SGNRL Steering Committee members who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes navigating logistics, governance, marketing, and operations, thank you. Your dedication and sacrifices have built the bedrock of this league. History is made on the field, and we are thrilled to welcome our three founding clubs: the Eastern Hornbills, Wanderers, and Central Vipers. To the coaches, referees, match officials, and players laying it all on the line this season, thank you for your passion, grit, and pioneering spirit.

Building a brand-new league requires strong commercial belief and community backing. A huge thank you to our valued sponsors – Tadcasters Hospitality, Singapore Animal Rehabilitation, Outback Butchery, and Kendall Court – for providing the support needed to elevate this competition and finally a special thanks as well to Tanglin Rugby Club for giving our competition a true home and helping us write this historic chapter together.

This is a celebration of community, toughness, and team spirit. Whether you are a lifelong Rugby League supporter or brand new to the greatest game of all, we invite you to come out, support the teams, and be a part of Singapore sporting history. Let’s play some league!

Tony Marshall
President, Singapore National Rugby League (SGNRL)