Junior League Overview /

Parramatta Eels Junior League

Located in the heart of Central Sydney, the Parramatta Junior Rugby League (PJRL) proudly oversees one of the largest and most diverse community rugby league programs in New South Wales. With 20 affiliated clubs, more than 5,700 registered players, and competitions ranging from Under 6 through to Open Age, the PJRL provides opportunities for boys, girls, men, and women to enjoy the game in a safe, inclusive and community‑focused environment.

Whether it’s tackle, tag, competitive, or non‑competitive football, our Junior League caters to all abilities and ensures every participant has a place to learn, grow and belong.

Aligned closely with the Parramatta Eels NRL Club and the Parramatta Pathways system, the PJRL creates genuine pathways for players to further their rugby league careers through Development Squads and Representative Teams. Our strong connection with the Eels ensures that local talent is identified, supported, and given every opportunity to progress through the elite pathway.

 

OUR HISTORY

Established in 1946, the Parramatta Junior Rugby League emerged during a period of rapid population growth across the Cumberland region. In its early days, clubs stretched from Liverpool to St Marys, forming the foundation of what is now a thriving district competition.

Today, the PJRL encompasses 20 affiliated clubs across six Local Government Areas—Parramatta, Cumberland, Hills Shire, Blacktown, Fairfield and Liverpool. The League continues to evolve with the expanding community, delivering competitions for thousands of participants every weekend.

Our competitions include:

U6–U12 – Saturday & Sunday local competitions
Male U13-U16 – Saturday local competitions
Male U17+ – Sunday Metro Competitions
Female Competitions – Metro Combined Competitions (U11s Girls to Opens)
Girls’ League Tag – Sydney‑wide competitions (U10-U18)

 

OUR VISION

To unite with our players and to motivate them to realise their potential while building camaraderie, lifetime friendships and lifelong memories.

 

OUR MISSION

To provide a safe, vibrant, and community‑based competition for people of all backgrounds, genders, and abilities to celebrate their love of rugby league.

 

OUR VALUES 

The PJRL proudly aligns with the values of the Parramatta Eels NRL Club:

Accountable – We deliver what we say we will do.
All‑In – We bring energy, focus and commitment to everything we do.
United – We work together and celebrate each other’s success.
Respectful – We respect our history, our people, our communities and our club.

 

OUR WORK ON & OFF THE FIELD

The PJRL is committed not only to providing high‑quality competitions, but also to shaping better people, better communities, and better opportunities, our programs extend well beyond the sideline.

Wellbeing & Culture Day

A district‑wide initiative delivered in partnership with the Parramatta Eels and Western Sydney University. This compulsory preseason program for selected age groups focuses on:

Mental health awareness
Violence prevention and respectful relationships
Referee communication
Positive behaviour on and off the field
The event has received wide acclaim and secured ongoing NSW Government funding to expand delivery.

 

Coaching Leadership Courses

Delivered annually for coaches and trainers, these workshops develop:

Leadership skills
Best‑practice coaching behaviours
Tools to reduce on‑field and off‑field violence
Positive role modelling for young athletes

 

Mental Health First Aid

All PJRL clubs have the opportunity to send representatives to accredited Mental Health First Aid courses, giving volunteers the skills to:

Support players experiencing mental health challenges
Identify concerns early
Build safer and more supportive club environments

Livestreaming & Digital Coverage

Our digital footprint continues to grow, with:

Weekly Match of the Round livestreams (Male U16 Division 1 & Female U14–U18)
Highlights packages, Try of the Week, Little League Legends and feature stories
Grand Final livestreams and uploads on Parra JL TV (YouTube Channel)
Club visits, media days, and promotional campaigns
This investment enhances visibility for players, celebrates club achievements, and elevates the overall profile of the district.

Community Engagement

Across the season, PJRL participants take part in:

Mini/Mod halftime games at CommBank Stadium
NRLW and NRL Guard of Honour opportunities
Multicultural and inclusion events
Representative pathway activations
These experiences deepen the connection between the Junior League, the Eels, and the wider community.