The Dyldam Parramatta Eels have today announced a 2016 pre-season trial match against the Gold Coast Titans at ANZAC Oval in Alice Springs on Saturday, February 13.
Heading into the third year of a ground-breaking four-year partnership with the Northern Territory Government, the Eels are again planning a full twelve-month calendar of visits to #eelsterritory.
The Blue and Gold will host coaching and skills clinics through Alice Springs, Katherine and Darwin, as well as business networking events, community visits, educational programs, and an NRL Telstra Premiership clash in Darwin during the season.
Eels Acting CEO John Boulous said the Eels were anticipating another successful stint in their second home, the Northern Territory.
“Our club is proud of what we have already achieved so far in our partnership with the Northern Territory Government, and the support from the Members and fans in Eels Territory has been incredible,” Boulous said.
“We’re really looking forward to another big year promoting rugby league, developing talent through the Eels Academy across the Territory, and working with schools, community groups and local players and coaches.”
NT Minister for Sport and Recreation Gary Higgins said the game was an opportunity for Central Australia to get an exclusive preview of the two NRL teams ahead of the 2016 season.
“This match will be a treat for rugby league fans in Alice Springs, as they get an exclusive preview of how the Eels are shaping up in 2016,” said NT Minister for Sport and Recreation Gary Higgins.
“Centralian rugby league fans can look forward to possibly seeing some new arrivals in the Blue and Gold, as we cheer coach Brad Arthur and his squad into a new season, and we’ll also look forward to seeing how the Titans will perform as both clubs look towards a stronger 2016.”
“The Government’s partnership with the Eels will enter its third year in 2016, and we can also expect to see some fantastic community engagement activities and promotion of participation of sport as part of a healthy lifestyle during the Eels’ visit to the Red Centre.”
The Eels’ February trial match will be the Blue and Gold’s second hit out in the lead up to the 2016 season, coming off the back of the Dick Smith NRL Auckland Nines on February 6 and 7 in Auckland, New Zealand.
Kick off times and ticket pricing will be confirmed in the coming months.
