ROUND 1 2/5/10   AND ROUND 9 4/7/10

ROUND 2 9/5/10 AND ROUND 10 11/7/10

ROUND 3 16/5/10 AND ROUND 11 18/7/10

ROUND 4 23/5/10 AND ROUND 12 25/7/10

ROUND 5 30/5/10 AND ROUND 13 1/8/10

ROUND 6 6/6/10 AND ROUND 14 8/8/10

ROUND 7 20/6/10 AND ROUND 15 15/8/10

ROUND 8 27/6/10 AND ROUND 16 22/8/10

FINALS SERIES

SAT 28 AUGUST ELIMINATION SEMI

SUN 29 AUGUST QUALIFYING SEMI

SAT 4 SEPT MINOR SEMI

SUN 5 SEPT MAJOR SEMI

SUN 12 SEPT FINAL

SUN 19 SEPT GRAND FINAL

LONG WEEKEND JUNE OFF 12,13,14

** This match is to be played other than a Sunday game.

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The competition is split in North and South divisions and will be played on March 28 and April 10-11, with the final on April 17-18.

(Host Club mentioned first)
ROUND 1 NORTH 28TH MARCH
BALLINA V MARIST BROTHERS
NORTHERN UNITED V MULLUMBIMBY
MURWILLUMBAH V BYRON BAY
TWEED COAST V CUDGEN

ROUND 2 NORTH 10/11TH APRIL
CUDGEN V BALLINA
MULLUMBIMBY V MURWILLUMBAH   
MARIST BROTHERS V TWEED COAST
BYRON BAY V NORTHERN UNITED

ROUND 1 SOUTH 28TH MARCH
GRAFTON RHINOS V LOWER CLARENCE
EVANS HEAD V GRAFTON GHOSTS
KYOGLE V CASINO RSM

ROUND 2 SOUTH 10/11TH APRIL
LOWER CLARENCE V EVANS HEAD
GRAFTON  GHOSTS V KYOGLE
CASINO RSM V GRAFTON RHINOS

FINAL TO BE PLAYED ON 17/18TH APRIL.

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The carnival runs from Tweed Heads to Evans Head and involves 26 schools. Free skills clinics will be among the activities.

“This year we are fortunate to have access to players and coaching staff from the Jet Star Gold Coast Titans, who will accompany development staff to school and clinic activities,”ARL development officer Kel Menchin said.

“Our theme at Schools is Eat Well, Play Well, Stay Well. We have a DVD promoting all aspects of a good lifestyle, which is narrated by Scott Prince and Nathan Hindmarsh, along with a host of other NRL players.

“We then have a question and answer time with the Jet Star Gold Coast Titans players and staff.”

The carnival starts in the Tweed on Monday, 8th February, with six schools and a registration and skills clinic in the afternoon, 4pm–5.30pm at Piggabeen Oval, Tweed Heads.

The carnival moves to Byron Bay on Tuesday, 9th February, with school visits and another registration and skills clinic from 4pm–5.30pm at Red Devil Park.

Final day runs from  Lennox Head to Evans Head, with Stan Payne Oval at Evans Head the venue for the registration and  skills clinic from 4pm–5.30pm.

Titans players visiting the Northern Rivers are:
Matt White                          
Shannon Walker
Mat Rogers
Luke O’Dwyer
David Mead
Ben Ridge
Anthony Laffranchi
Riley Brown.

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The competition, known as the Ballina RSL Charity Shield, will begin on March 28. It will culminate with a presentation night at the Ballina RSL Club on April 23.

NRRRL secretary Doug Harrison said that the Men of League Foundation and breast cancer research would be the beneficiaries of the competition.

The total prize pool for the competition is $10,500, donated in part by the Ballina RSL Club.

The pre-season competition will be split into North and South divisions, with the top-performing teams from each division meeting in the final.

The best-performed team from either division will host the final.

Meanwhile, in other NRRRL news, Cudgen has signed former Balmain and Manly first-grader Craig Field for the 2010 season.  Cudgen will be coached by Con Theodossiou.

Other new coaching appointments include Don Walker (Kyogle), Simon Kelly (Byron Bay), Scott Hogan (Mullumbimby), Ricky Binge (Lower Clarence) and John Sione Va’a (Casino RSM).

Chris Binge (Northern United), Brian Battese (Ballina), Xavier Sullivan (Grafton Rhinos), Col Speed (Grafton Ghosts) and David Krause (Lismore Marist Brothers) have been reappointed as 2010 coaches.

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Among the invited guests were some former players who have been doing it tough recently with illness. One special guest was Len Cook, of Lismore, who has been battling liver cancer.

Len is well-known around the district after being involved in football in Lismore, running Summerland Tyres in Lismore for 37 years, and being a successful horse trainer for 57 years (he still has a couple of horses in work).

What is not so well-known about Len is that in his younger years, he was quick – so quick that he competed in the famous Australian foot race, the Stawell Gift.

He is a winner of the 100-yard dash at Stawell, and finished second in the 1954 Stawell Gift semi-final to a runner called Jack Hayes, who went on to win the Gift final.

Len’s best time for the 100 yards was 9.7 seconds!

He played a season in the tough Newcastle league comp, and lined up against a visiting St George team which included the likes of Norm Provan (‘the best forward I played against’), Harry Bath and Poppa Clay.

“Harry Bath told me that they’d brought a young kid along and they’d give him a run in the second half. Harry said the kid would play for Australia,” Len said.

‘The young kid’ was none other than Reg Gasnier.

Other guests at the race day included Errol Leeson, of Wardell, Bob Delaney, of Lismore, former Group One referee Darryl James, and former Lismore Marist Brothers star Gary Sampson.

The main race of the day was the Conange and Associates Men of League Cup over 1410m.

The winner was Ballina-trained River Street, and trainer Andrew Pilling was thrilled to meet former league star John Peard after the race.

‘Peardie’ spoke at the Cup presentation and praised the way Andrew turned out River Street for the Cup.

Men of League Northern Rivers are planning a race day for Lismore next year, proably in May.

PICTURES (from top):

Men of League welfare officer Phil Loader, Len Cook, Gary Sampson, Errol Leeson, Darryl James and Men of League Northern Rivers president Phil Chesham.

Michael Woods, Bob Delaney and Kim Evans.

Men of League national vice-chairman Jim Hall (left) and Northern Rivers patron Bob Abbott (right) with the Tweed Districts Men of League crew, Gary Ward, Keith Campbell, Terry Sayer, Neil Sams, Jeff Smith, John Strong (president) and Tony McCarthy.

Tony Durheim (ex Gold Coast and Lismore Brothers) with Greg Fletcher, representing the Evans Head Bombers.

Adding some glamour to the day were (from left) Nic Morris, Lyn Aubusson, Fiona McQueen, Danielle Iverson, Janelle Colman and Debbie Crawford.

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Bird made his first appearance at Jetstar Titans training today after both parties agreed to the terms of a uniquely structured contract.

Bird has signed a one-year deal for next season which comes with an option every year for the next three seasons – making it a potential four-year deal.

The agreement will require Bird to meet the strict requirements of the Jetstar Titans’ Code of Conduct and the NRL’s guidelines relating to player behaviour. The contract will be put forward to the NRL today.

The deal eventuated after a formal approach was made to Bird following consultation with Titans players and other club officials over his potential signing.

Jetstar Titans Managing Director Michael Searle said despite the off-field controversy which has followed Bird over the past 15 months, his recent acquittal had to be taken on face value as the 25-year-old looks to revive his NRL career.

“We accept the verdict of the court recently, but at the same time, Greg is the first to admit he has some issues that he has to put behind him,’’ said Searle.

“After speaking with both he and his partner Katie, we feel the Jetstar Titans is the best possible place for him to do that as they seek assistance in dealing with certain aspects of their life.

“The club has had a good track record with regards to off-field player behaviour and we feel that we can assist him as he looks to achieve his own personal goals.

“We accept the responsibility the NRL has placed on clubs when signing players who have had off-field incidents in the past and Greg will be expected to abide by the strict Code of Conduct the Titans already have in place.

“It must be stressed that we would not do anything to put the reputation of this club in jeopardy. Further to that, members of the first grade squad gave their full support towards Greg being offered an opportunity with the club.’’

Bird said he was excited to be given the chance to again play in the NRL after he was forced to play in the UK Super League with French club Les Catalans while he awaited his recent appeal hearing.

“It has been a trying period for everyone involved but I’m excited that I can now look forward to next season with the Titans,’’ said Bird.

“The Titans are an impressive club and I can’t wait to start training with the team.

“I also have family on the Gold Coast, so that is another reason why I view the Titans as being the right fit.’’

Bird has played more than 100 first grade games for Cronulla (2002-2008) and has also represented Australian (2 Tests) and NSW (4 State of Origin appearances).

He has the size, skill and versatility to be able to play at five-eighth or in the back-row – an asset that Jetstar Titans coach John Cartwright said would further strengthen the club’s roster.

“Greg has proven to be a gutsy competitor at the highest level, so he will bring a real hunger to win with him to the Titans,’’ said Cartwright.

“He is still just 25 years of age and I believe his best football is in front of him.’’

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Sir Viv will be the guest speaker at a Sportsman’s Dinner at Ballina Seagulls Rugby League Club on February 20, 2010, where he will give a 45-minute talk.

Former Australian paceman Rodney Hogg also will speak on the night.

Ballina Seagulls secured the coup last week. Without advertising the event, it had already sold about 100 tickets by Friday night as not just cricket fans, but sports fans in general, rushed to get tickets.

Such has been the response that the club is considering shifting the venue from inside the club to an outside marquee.

Seagulls Leagues Club can hold a crowd of 140 in comfort, but with the response already received, the club believes it might be worth the extra expense to set up a marquee which could hold as many as 300 guests.

Ballina Seagulls were offered the chance to host Sir Viv after holding a dinner in 2008 featuring Hogg, Doug Walters and David Boon.

The speakers’ representative told secretary-manager Mark Cribb that there was a possibility that Sir Viv would be available in February 2010, and Cribb was informed last week of his availability.

He had no hesitation in accepting the offer.

Sir Viv was a dominant force of the great West Indies teams of the 1970s through to the 1990s. He is the only West Indian captain never to lose a Test series.

He scored 8540 runs in 121 Test matches at an average of 50.23, including 24 centuries. He also scored five centuries in World Series Cricket between 1977-79.

Sir Viv won 27 of 50 matches as a Test captain, and lost only eight.

In 1986 he became the scorer of the fastest-ever Test century, from just 56 balls against England in Antigua.

In 1975 a young Sir Viv helped the West Indies to win the inaugural Cricket World Cup, running out Alan Turner, Ian Chappell and Greg Chappell.

It wasn’t just statistics that made Sir Viv a cricket legend. It was also the way he went about his cricket: a swashbuckling attacking batsman with a never-say-die attitude and fierce competitive streak that often intimidated his opponents.

Tickets to the dinner on February 20 cost $120 and include a two-course meal and some drinks. For bookings, phone Mark Cribb on 6686 8100 or 0401 597 798.

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It will be the new division’s second major event, following on from the successful golf day at Ballina.

The Men of League Foundation-Northern Rivers Division was formed mid this year and next year will be looking to expand its role into the Lismore, Casino, Kyogle and Evans Head regions.

Local businesses have come on board for the December 12 race day and will sponsor races on the seven-event program.

Sponsors include Rod Sironen Constructions, Koellner Steel, the Australian Hotel Ballina, Ballina Pipeline Constructions, Ballina Wizard Kitchens, and Tony Cicchinelli Insurance Agent.

Another sponsor is Conange & Associates, which has hotel interests in Queensland and is a strong supporter of Men of League.

Former league stars attending the day will include John Peard, Geoff Starling and Noel Kelly.

Entry to the track will be $10 and $8 concession.

Men of League will set up a marquee and entry to it costs $35 single and $60 double. The price includes entry to the track, beer, wine and food.

General admission tickets and tickets to the marquee will be available at the gate.

Inquiries: Phil Chesham 0402 305 498.

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John Sione Va’a will take over at Casino, while Simon Kelly will be the Devils coach.

Sione Va’a is a former Gold Coast Chargers player who coached Western Suburbs’ SG Ball team this year.

He also adds coaching co-ordinator for Wests’ Development Program to his resume.

Simon Kelly is no stranger to Byron Bay supporters, being one of the club’s best forwards.

He replaces Nathan Cross, who is unavailable because of business commitments.

Byron Bay, premiers in 2008 under Nathan Cross’ coaching, have lost halfback Jared de Theirry and fullback Brad Lees to Brisbane Norths.

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The Jetstar Titans and adidas have combined to create a cutting-edge playing strip which will be worn by the club from season 2010 onwards.

The new jerseys are 30 per cent lighter than previous rugby league strips made by the company and also feature Climacool™ technology which provides a more ‘breathable’ garment that has a greater ability to repel sweat – making the athlete cooler.

The highlight of the new look is the introduction of swords into the design of the playing jerseys. The home jersey features a navy to surf (light blue) gradient while the away strip is predominantly white.

Further features include a new open collar and specially designed sleeve which contours to the players’ muscles.

Jetstar Titans Managing Director Michael Searle said he was proud of the club’s new look as it embarks on its fourth season in the National Rugby League.

“The design of our new playing strip was an important one as it is the Titans’ first major change of jersey since our inaugural season in 2007 and highlights the continued growth of the club,’’ said Mr Searle.

“We were mindful of designing a playing strip that not only had the best interests of the players at heart but also that of our fans – both male and female.

“We are thrilled with the final outcome and excited about the opportunity to link with such a strong brand in the world market.’’

adidas Sports Marketing Manager Cameron Baranski said the company was excited about the new partnership.

“From our very first meeting adidas has been impressed by the Titans’ modern outlook on sport and the game of rugby league,’’ said Mr Baranski.

“We’re extremely excited to work with this young organisation intent on forging their own history.

“Our aim is to have the Titans looking and feeling their best, both on field and at training. We’ve focused on a clean, modern look which will stand out from the pack.

“adidas has also invested in technology. The jersey is 30 per cent lighter than our 2009 adidas rugby league jersey, the fit is more figure-hugging, making the players harder to tackle, and we’ve incorporated Climacool™ technology to reduce heat stress.”

The new Titans’ playing strip will be on sale to the general public from December 1.

PICTURE: Titans co-captain Scott Prince (right) and Mat Rogers model the new home and away strips. (Picture by Alana Sykes)

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