Newcastle Rugby League has approved a proposal to introduce a men's open grade, or third-grade, competition on Friday nights, with a target launch in 2026. The concept, driven by clubs, aims to provide an additional playing tier for players who cannot commit to weekend fixtures.
Lakes co-coach Brad Murray, a former premiership winner, described the idea as having 'legs'. He noted that third-grade sides are crucial for club culture and can help retain players who might otherwise be lost to the sport. 'It's really hard to get everyone in on the one day,' Murray said, referring to the existing schedule of women's tackle, under-19s, reserve grade and firsts.
Maitland mentor Matt Lantry also endorsed the proposal, calling it 'a great idea'. The concept was first floated publicly via social media on November 3. Newcastle RL general manager Adam Devcich confirmed the plan is not compulsory and will depend on club participation. 'How we structure it and how long it goes for depends on how many clubs put their hand for it,' Devcich said.
Under the proposed format, matches would be played as double headers to reduce the burden on volunteers. If eight teams participate, each club would host only every four weeks. Devcich emphasized that Newcastle RL does not want to detract from existing Newcastle and Hunter competitions, and having all grades under one administration should ease player movement between tiers.
Similar Friday night concepts already operate in other regional sports, including Hunter Rugby Union lower grades and Northern NSW Football all-age competitions. Junior associations such as hockey and cricket also use the timeslot. Exact details of the Newcastle RL competition are yet to be finalized, pending participant numbers.
