Queensland Rugby League: The popular sport of Rugby league football is amongst the topmost played team sport in Australia, along with cricket and hockey. Since its origin in England, dating back to 1823, this full-contact team sport has evolved since.
With the disbanding from the Rugby Football Union (RFU) in 1907, Rugby League form was created, which followed Northern Union rules. Today it has established itself worldwide as a popular recreational sport, played at both international and domestic levels.
The Australian Rugby League (ARL) is the governing body for the sport of rugby league in Australia, and includes the New South Wales Rugby League (NSWRL) and the Queensland Rugby League (QRL) as member state bodies.
The Queensland Rugby League is the governing body for the sport of rugby league played in Queensland. It was formed in 1908 due to the break-off of seven rugby union players from the then Queensland Rugby Union citing dissatisfaction, and to form a professional league. After its formation, the official event for the Queensland Rugby League was held in 1909 with the Valleys winning the inaugural event.
The Queensland Rugby League activities include selecting members of Queensland State of Origin teams, which are a representative team that play three games annually against New South Wales for the State of Origin competition. The QRL also oversees the Queensland Rugby League team and is also responsible for administering the rugby league through the regional divisions.
The rugby league administered in Queensland by the QRL has the following divisions:
- South East Queensland Division - (since 2007, following the merger of South East Division Poinsettias with the Southern Division Kookaburras).
- Wide Bay Division Bulls
- Northern Division Marlins
- Central Division Capras
- South West Division Mustangs
On the rugby field, there is intense rivalry between Queensland and the New South Wales teams, with both neighboring sides vying for top position. Over the years, the results varied, however the most recent stand is Queensland. The various rugby league competitions sanctioned by Queensland Rugby League. The former competitions include the Brisbane Rugby League, the Bulimba Cup and the Winfield State League. However, the current major competitions held are listed below as:
- The Queensland Wizard Cup
- FOGS Cup
- FOGS Colts Challenge
- Foley Shield
Thus, the Queensland Rugby League, being the premier body for rugby league in Queensland, has promoted the growth for the sport immensely. It has also inspired players and fans alike, throughout Australia and all over the world, watching their home nation rise to champions in most rugby league tournaments.
