Excitement is building for the 2025 New England Rugby Union (NERU) season, with the return of the Dorrigo Rangers adding another layer of competition to an already thriving league. Following a successful 2024 campaign in the Mid North Coast Rugby competition, the Rangers are set to rejoin NERU’s 2nd Grade competition, bringing with them a wealth of experience, talent, and passion for the game.
After last week’s AGM, the NERU clubs met again this morning to officially adopt the draw for the 2025 competition. It was at this meeting that the clubs voted in favour of admitting Dorrigo back into the league. The Rangers last competed in NERU in 2008, and their return follows Walcha joining the competition last year.
New England Rugby President David Clifton expressed his delight at the decision, highlighting the depth and community spirit the Rangers will contribute.
“The Dorrigo Rangers have a long history in both senior and junior rugby. The Club previously competed in the Mid North Coast Rugby competition, where they had a very successful season in 2024 and will add considerable strength and interest to the New England Competition.”
“There is no doubt they will be able to attract players, not only from Dorrigo, but moving west through Ebor and Wollomombi. Dorrigo Club has not only a senior team but multiple junior teams.
“In a small town like Dorrigo, the Club is a focal point of the community, and the Club has its own rugby field, canteen, and dedicated change rooms for both home and visiting teams.
“We warmly welcome them back to New England Rugby Union.”
Dorrigo President Sim Mila said they are looking forward looking forward to a bright future within the competition.
“On behalf of the Dorrigo Rangers seniors and club, we are incredibly excited to be joining the NERU for 2025.
“It offers an exciting new challenge in competition for our senior team as well as endless opportunities for the club, community, and wider experiences that will benefit from this.
“We thank all the clubs and committees involved with helping us in such a smooth transition as well as such a warm welcome. We are looking forward to the 2025 season! Ranger up!”
With six Women’s Tens teams and 20 Senior Men’s teams locked in, the 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. The action begins on April 12 with the first of the much-anticipated Rivalry Round fixtures.
In 2024, Robb College stormed home in the second half to claim the New England Rugby First Grade title over a determined Armidale Blues, while the Glen Innes Elkettes triumphed in the Women’s Tens with a commanding 31-19 victory. With these teams looking to defend their crowns and challengers eager to dethrone them, 2025 promises to be another thrilling year of rugby in the New England region.
Rugby fans, get ready—the season is just around the corner!
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