The One New Zealand Warriors and the Auckland Rugby League have today hailed a landmark agreement to work together to enhance rugby league’s status at a time when the game’s popularity is at an all-time high.
Warriors CEO Cameron George and ARL chief executive Duane Mann said the accord paves the way to deliver initiatives with mutual benefits for both organisations and for the game as whole.
Signed for an initial term of three years, the agreement focuses on the overall promotion of rugby league, elite pathways and environments and information sharing on various levels.
“This is a tremendous development for the Warriors and the Auckland Rugby League,” said George.
We share a deep love for rugby league and it makes absolute sense for us to work closely for the betterment of the game
Cameron George One New Zealand Warriors CEO
“We share a deep love for rugby league, we’re across the road from each other and it makes absolute sense for us to work closely for the betterment of the game. In essence we want to win the hearts and minds of people to become connected with rugby league.
“It’s also perfect timing to be taking this step 30 years after the ARL brought the club into the competition in 1995. We’re grateful to the ARL and Duane for getting on board to make this happen.”
When partners truly come together and work as a team, amazing, generational things will happen
Duane Mann Auckland Rugby League CEO
Mann has a deep connection with and understanding of the game at both a grass roots and professional level in Auckland having played the game at club level rising to become Kiwi captain and a foundation Warrior and now in the CEO’s role with the ARL.
“When partners truly come together and work as a team, amazing, generational things will happen,” said Mann.
“The Auckland Rugby League is all-in with the One New Zealand Warriors and we’re grateful to Cameron and his team for the work they’ve done. The ultimate goal is everybody wins.
“The opportunity to co-create and deliver on world-class competitions and pathways will uplift our clubs, the community and the game itself.”
Under the agreement, shared goals include:
- Increasing fan engagement for the Warriors and rugby league generally.
- Increasing engagement in schools.
- Building connection between the ARL’s member clubs and the Warriors.
- Improved retention of young talent from Auckland and New Zealand in the Warriors’ pathways system.
- Improved high performance opportunities in Auckland for a broader range of players.
- Dedicated pathways and structure for female players.
A number of specific initiatives will be unveiled in the coming months.
