The Grenfell Junior Rugby League Club has kicked off its 2025 season with strong community spirit and a renewed sense of purpose and excitement.
The smallest club in the Lachlan District, Grenfell JRL has big goals. After weathering years of post-COVID disruption, the volunteer committee has committed to rebuilding with a fresh focus on participation, pride, and community connection.
Player development remains at the forefront, with a recent visit from Shanika Harpur of the NRL providing all players with a Tackle Ready clinic. The session was engaging, fun, and gave kids across all age groups the chance to sharpen their skills and build confidence in a safe, supportive environment.
In Round 1, Grenfell travelled to Forbes for what turned out to be a shining example of grassroots rugby league at its best. With Grenfell’s Under 12s team short on numbers, the Forbes Magpies offered up players to ensure every child could take the field. It was a moment that reminded all involved of the deep camaraderie that underpins junior sport.
After a Round 2 bye, Round 3 brought another milestone, this time where the Condobolin Rams hosted Grenfell in an action packed day that included the launch of their first ever Under 14s Girls Tackle team. Grenfell players and families were proud to share in the celebration with Condo, marking a significant step forward for both clubs and for female participation in the region.
Both teams collaborated to field an U14s side with courage, passion, and a pioneering spirit. The club is already working with district partners to expand future girls’ participation and continue shifting the local sporting landscape toward greater inclusivity, with more girls tackle games scheduled for Rounds 6, 9, and 12 across the district.
Free registration is still available for all girls interested in giving tackle a go, courtesy of the Lachlan District Committee. Reach out to your local club for more info!
Looking ahead to Round 4, Game Day returns to Henry Lawson Oval this Saturday, May 17, with kick off from 9:00am.
Grenfell will host Parkes Blue in what promises to be a vibrant morning of family fun, great food, and community spirit. The canteen will be open and all are welcome to come along and enjoy the showcase of young talent from both clubs.
Grenfell JRL’s story is one of resilience, like all clubs in the district, the kind that exists in small country towns like ours. Where past and future blur on the boundary line, where generations gather on the same fields they once played on as kids, and where sport still means something deeper than winning.
From generosity on the field to growth off it, grassroots footy continues to be a powerful source of joy, pride, and development. Grenfell’s 2025 season is shaping into something special and the club is proud to be part of it.