The North Sydney Bears are proud to host a special Women in League Round celebration at North Sydney Oval, affectionately known as Bear Park, this Sunday, shining a spotlight on the remarkable growth of female rugby league pathways across the North Sydney district while recognising the women whose passion, dedication and leadership continue to shape the game both on and off the field.
The day will begin with the next generation of female players taking centre stage, with a U7s Tackle Ready Gala kicking off at 9:30am, followed by the U10s Girls League Tag Gala at 11:00am, featuring aspiring young athletes from across the North Sydney district’s local clubs.
The celebration of female pathways continues with two exciting representative matches showcasing the talent emerging through the junior ranks. At 12:00pm, Lane Cove Tigers will take on North Sydney Brothers in the U16s Girls League Tag match, before Willoughby Roos face Berowra Wallabies in the U18s Girls League Tag clash at 1:00pm.
The spotlight then turns to the main event at 3:00pm, as the mighty North Sydney Bears take on the Penrith Panthers in a blockbuster Knock-On Effect NSW Cup showdown between first and second on the competition ladder. With top spot and valuable momentum on the line, the Bears will be calling on the passionate red and black faithful to pack Bear Park and help cheer the team home.
Beyond the football field, the Bears are proud to continue their partnership with Mary’s House Services to raise vital funds and awareness for women and children escaping domestic and family violence. Supporters can make a meaningful contribution by purchasing pink sunglasses and scrunchies for $5 from the Bears merchandise stall, buying raffle tickets to win incredible prizes, or indulging in a traditional bake sale hosted by the student volunteers from Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy College, with all proceeds supporting the important work of Mary’s House Services.
Earlier this year, in a first for an NSWRL club, the North Sydney Bears took a powerful stand alongside community partner Mary’s House Services, engaging players and staff in the Captain’s Code pledge against domestic and family violence.
Mary’s House Services CEO Yvette Vignando praised the partnership and the club’s commitment to creating change.
“Having the support of such an iconic club like the North Sydney Bears means a great deal to us. The North Sydney Bears have demonstrated real, values-driven leadership by choosing to stand united with Mary’s House Services against domestic and family violence.
“With the full strength of their club behind this partnership, together we are making a difference, saving lives, and saying yes to safety and hope for women and children across our community.”
The Women in League Round celebrations are proudly supported by event partners TD Wraps and Sydney Harbour Cruise Events, whose commitment to supporting female pathways in rugby league is helping create greater opportunities for girls and women to thrive in the game.
The club will also host a special Women in League networking event in the iconic Mollie Dive Stand, bringing together local business leaders, corporate partners and dedicated volunteers from across the Bears’ eight junior league clubs. The event will provide an opportunity to foster meaningful connections, celebrate women’s leadership and acknowledge the extraordinary contribution of female volunteers who are the heartbeat of community rugby league.
North Sydney Bears CEO Gareth Holmes said Women in League Round provides a powerful opportunity to recognise and celebrate every woman who contributes to the game.
“From our youngest players pulling on a jersey for the very first time, to our volunteers, coaches, officials, business leaders and community supporters, women are helping shape the future of rugby league every single day.
“This Sunday is about celebrating those contributions, showcasing the strength of our female pathways, and coming together as a community to support the important work of Mary’s House Services.”
The North Sydney Bears invite all members, supporters and the wider community to come down to Bear Park this Sunday to celebrate women in rugby league, community spirit and the bright future of the game.
