Registrations open ahead of Tasmanian Rugby's 90th anniversary season, President to step down at AGM
Tasmanian Rugby is set for its biggest ever season in 2023 with both the TRU and two of its oldest clubs celebrating 90th anniversaries.
“We’re very proud to be celebrating 90 years of Tasmanian Rugby in 2023 – the game’s changed a fair bit since 1933 and we’ve been through our fair share of adversity in recent years, so it’s an incredible achievement,” TRU president Ebony Altimira said.
“We’ll also be celebrating two of our longest-standing clubs in Harlequins and University and I’m sure they’ll be pushing to make 2023 a memorable one to mark their respective 90th milestones.”
2023 will be one of the most hotly contested seasons in TRU history, if last year’s results are any indication.
Launceston’s men ruled supreme in both the Premiership and Championship, but not without significant pressure from Taroona and Devonport, while Burnie featured in both men’s and women’s deciders in 2022.
University remained the benchmark in women’s rugby despite de-merging with Taroona – downing Burnie to bag a third consecutive title last season - and their men will look to emulate their success and mark the club’s 90th anniversary with a breakthrough finals appearance.
They aren’t the only Southern club with a point to prove.
The men’s Premiership trophy hasn’t lived in Hobart since Taroona’s 2020 title and the Penguins will be out for revenge after last year’s grand final heartbreak.
Likewise, Hobart Lions and Glenorchy remain competition wildcards and a dangerous prospect at home, while 2023’s other milestone club Hobart Harlequins and Championship side Eastern Suburbs will prove a far sterner test this season.
“Training registrations have already opened for the 2023 season so if you’ve started pre-season or are preparing to do so, please ensure you are registered through the Rugby Xplorer App,” Altimira said.
“We’re also seeking new referees to help our team of TRU officials so please contact Matchofficals@tas.rugby to register your interest and get involved today.”
“For any clubs seeking assistance filling coaching vacancies or coaches seeking further representative opportunities, please contact chris.noble@tas.rugby for further information.”
In addition, the TRU AGM will be held this month with Altimira - a Nick Farr Jones Spirit of Rugby award winner for her services to the sport - deciding to step down as President as of February 26.
"On a personal note, I'd like to thank everyone who has supported me over the past 5 years," Altimira said.
"It has been an absolute honour representing TRU and I wish rugby in Tasmania all the very success it deserves."
