Ministry of Sport

Toowoomba named host of 2027 Senior State Age

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

Netball Queensland has officially announced that the Toowoomba Netball Association will host the 2027 Senior State Age carnival.

The decision follows the successful conclusion of the 2026 event in Townsville, where Redcliffe Leagues Netball Association claimed the prestigious 18 Championship title and Hinterland District secured a Championship double in the 15 and 16 divisions.

The Senior State Age remains one of the largest participation events in Queensland, attracting thousands of athletes aged 15 to 18. The selection of Toowoomba marks a significant milestone for the region, which has not hosted the state-wide carnival in over 40 years. The event is scheduled to take place from 3 to 6 April 2027.

Noting the strategic importance of the upgraded facilities, Netball Queensland CEO, Kate Davies, said: “Their newly upgraded facilities will provide an outstanding venue and we’re looking forward to teams from across the state visiting Toowoomba to take part in what promises to be an exceptional event.”

Highlighting the commercial and community benefits for the Darling Downs region, president of Toowoomba Netball Association, Adam Marjoribanks, added: “This event will provide a fantastic opportunity to highlight our newly upgraded facilities and our players will enjoy the benefits of playing on their home courts whilst sleeping in their own beds.”

“For the community, the economic benefits of hosting an event this large will be greatly welcomed by the region’s businesses and provides an opportunity to showcase the Toowoomba Region,” Marjoribanks said.

The bid’s success was bolstered by Toowoomba’s recent completion of a $2 million major redevelopment of its courts.

The project was supported by a $1.65 million grant from the Australian Government’s Play Our Way program, ensuring the venue meets elite standards for the thousands of players, coaches, and officials expected to attend.

The 2026 carnival recently celebrated the growth of the game with the inclusion of the First Nations Academy of Excellence, which claimed the 18 Division 3 title, and the continued expansion of the Senior Boys division.

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Wurundjeri Corporation and Melbourne Storm Form Historic Partnership

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

The Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and the Melbourne Storm have announced a partnership aimed at creating sustainable opportunities for First Nations people through community, cultural, and educational collaboration.

The agreement marks a significant step in the club’s commitment to the Traditional Owners of the land on which they are based and compete.

The partnership focuses on a multi-faceted approach to supporting First Nations people across Melbourne and all of Wurundjeri Country. Central to the agreement is the establishment of a new Cultural Advisory Committee, where the Corporation will provide representation to guide the club’s strategic direction regarding Indigenous affairs.

The Corporation will also support the Storm with cultural protocols, including Welcome to Country ceremonies, and provide ongoing education to players, staff, and the wider Storm community.

Highlighting the partnership’s foundation in mutual respect, Wurundjeri Corporation chair and elder, Aunty Annette Xiberras, said: “This partnership with Melbourne Storm reflects a shared commitment to respect and cultural integrity, and we welcome the opportunity to work together to create meaningful opportunities for our people.”

“By strengthening understanding of Wurundjeri culture, we can support positive outcomes for our community and future generations,” Aunty Annette said.

emphasised the importance of these pathways for the club’s institutional growth. “This partnership will help to support meaningful programs and opportunities for First Nations people while also ensuring our players, staff and members continue to learn about and respect the rich history and culture of the Wurundjeri people,” Rodski said.

Rodski further acknowledged the collaborative efforts with Wurundjeri leadership, including Deputy Chair Uncle John Terrick, CEO Mark Harper, and Deputy CEO Uncle Sean Hunter. “Our discussions have been very positive and focused on how we can continue to build stronger pathways and create meaningful opportunities for First Nations people into the future,” he noted.

Key commercial and social initiatives under the partnership include:

Education Pathways: Programs specifically designed to support young people in engaging further with their education.
Health & Wellbeing: The development of men’s health programs tailored for First Nations communities.
Cultural Competency: Mandatory education sessions for Storm staff and players to foster a deeper understanding of Wurundjeri history and heritage.

Strategically, the partnership aligns the Melbourne Storm with the broader objectives of the NRL’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

Rockstar Energy Announces Return to NASCAR with 23XI Racing Partnership

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

Rockstar Energy has officially announced its return to NASCAR through a high-profile partnership with 23XI Racing and breakout star Tyler Reddick.

The multi-year agreement marks the first in a series of planned investments by the energy drink brand into elite sports performance as it seeks to redefine its “LIVE LOUD™” identity within the global sporting landscape.

The timing of the partnership coincides with a historic run for Reddick, driver of the No. 45 Toyota Camry XSE. Reddick has electrified the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series season, becoming the first driver in the sport’s 78-year history to win the opening three races, including the Daytona 500.

Highlighting Reddick’s fearless style as a catalyst for the brand’s evolution, senior director of Sports and Music at Rockstar Energy, Steve Mateus, said: “His relentless drive mirrors a mindset of pushing limits, making him a natural extension of a brand that celebrates intensity, individuality, and unapologetic ambition.”

Having secured four victories in the first six rounds, Reddick has established himself as a championship frontrunner and a premier commercial asset for the team co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jo1rdan and three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin.

The Rockstar-branded No. 45 Toyota will make its on-track debut at Talladega Superspeedway on April 26th, with Reddick donning a matching fire suit and helmet.

Expressing his enthusiasm, Reddick , said: “Joining Rockstar Energy now is the right fit for both of us.”

“From day one, it was clear we share that winner-take-all attitude.

“I’m fired up to rep the yellow star with the No. 45 team and bring Rockstar to victory lane this season.”

Emphasising that the deal reflects the team’s commitment to excellence, 23XI team president, Steve Lauletta, added: “Aligning with an athlete and team performing at this level speaks volumes to where the brand is headed in this new chapter.”

From a strategic standpoint, the partnership allows Rockstar to leverage 23XI’s growing cultural influence. Since its debut in 2021, 23XI has been a driver of change within the sport. The team currently features a diverse three-car lineup:

Bubba Wallace (No. 23): The second African American driver to win in the Cup Series, representing 6% of the 34 full-time drivers in the 2026 field.
Tyler Reddick (No. 45): The 2024 Regular Season Champion and current historical record-holder for the 2026 season start.
Riley Herbst (No. 35): The newest addition to the team’s expanded full-time roster.

Lionel Messi Sets New MLS Away Attendance Record in Denver

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

Lionel Messi has further solidified his status as North America’s premier commercial draw, helping set a new Major League Soccer (MLS) away attendance record during Inter Miami’s 3-2 victory over the Colorado Rapids on Saturday.

In a move to celebrate the franchise’s 30th anniversary and accommodate unprecedented ticket demand, the Rapids relocated the fixture from Dick’s Sporting Goods Park to Empower Field at Mile High, the 76,000-seat home of the NFL’s Denver Broncos.

The match attracted a staggering 75,824 spectators, officially becoming the largest home crowd in Colorado Rapids history.

The figure eclipsed the previous away attendance record set just two months ago in February, when 75,673 fans gathered at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum to watch the high-profile showdown between Inter Miami’s Messi and LAFC’s Son Heung-min.

On the pitch, Messi delivered on the immense hype, netting a brace to lead the “Herons” to a critical three points. The event now sits as the second-highest single-game attendance in the history of MLS, trailing only the “El Tráfico” derby between the LA Galaxy and LAFC held at the Rose Bowl in July 2023.

Strategic Stadium Relocations Drive Revenue

The record in Denver is the latest evidence of a league-wide strategy to maximise the “Messi Effect” by shifting fixtures to high-capacity NFL and MLB venues.

D.C. United: Relocated their match to M&T Bank Stadium (Baltimore), drawing 72,026 fans.
LAFC: Utilised the L.A. Memorial Coliseum to host 75,673 supporters.
New York City FC: Shifted their fixture to Yankee Stadium, attracting a capacity crowd of 45,845.

The 75,824-strong crowd in Colorado also came within striking distance of the all-time attendance record for Empower Field at Mile High across any sport, a benchmark of 77,160 set during a 2007 NFL contest between the Broncos and the Green Bay Packers.

All-Time MLS Attendance Leaders

The Colorado vs. Inter Miami fixture has reshaped the league’s historical leaderboard:

Rank	Matchup	Date	Attendance	Venue
1	LA Galaxy vs. LAFC	July 2023	82,110	Rose Bowl
2	Colorado Rapids vs. Inter Miami	April 2026	75,824	Empower Field
3	LAFC vs. Inter Miami	Feb 2026	75,673	L.A. Coliseum
4	Charlotte FC vs. LA Galaxy	March 2022	74,479	Bank of America Stadium
5	Atlanta United vs. Portland	Dec 2018	73,019	Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Lionel Messi Acquires UE Cornellà in Strategic Return to Catalonia

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

Lionel Messi has officially completed a 100% acquisition of UE Cornellà, the Catalonia-based club announced on Thursday, 16 April 2026. The move marks the Inter Miami captain’s first major foray into club ownership in Spain, deepening his lifelong connection to the region where he spent 21 years with FC Barcelona.

The deal, facilitated through a strategic investment plan, focuses on the club’s prestigious youth academy, which has historically produced elite talent such as Jordi Alba, David Raya, and André Onana. By taking full control of the Baix Llobregat institution, Messi aims to preserve and expand its reputation as a premier talent factory.

In an official statement of UE Cornellà, they said: “This move reinforces Messi’s close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia, a connection rooted in his years at FC Barcelona and sustained ever since.”

“Leo Messi’s arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter in the club’s history, aimed at driving both sporting and institutional growth, strengthening its foundations, and continuing to invest in talent,” they said.

Strategic Growth and Local Roots

While UE Cornellà has struggled at the senior level in recent years, dropping to the Tercera RFEF (Spanish fifth division) following consecutive relegations, the acquisition is built on a long-term vision of sustainability and technical infrastructure development.

Youth Development: The “Messi project” will prioritise the academy, leveraging his global network to create a pipeline for emerging players.
Institutional Stability: The takeover provides the club with significant financial backing to professionalise its operations and rise back through the Spanish domestic tiers.
Cultural Legacy: The investment is viewed as a “homecoming” for Messi, securing a permanent professional link to the community that shaped his career.

Messi’s entry into ownership mirrors the path of his Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham and follows the recent move by Cristiano Ronaldo, who acquired a 25% stake in UD Almería. Unlike minority investments common among active stars, Messi’s 100% stake gives him total control over the club’s future direction.

Y Series Named Official Wine Partner for NFL Melbourne Game

Posted on April 20, 2026 by Courtney

South Australian wine brand Y Series has been confirmed as the Official Wine Sponsor of the National Football League (NFL) in Australia and New Zealand.

The multi-year agreement marks the first time the NFL has partnered with a wine brand in the Australian market and stands as the largest sporting partnership in Y Series’ history.

The partnership arrives as the NFL prepares for its landmark first-ever regular season game in Australia, which will see the Los Angeles Rams face off against the San Francisco 49ers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Friday, 11 September 2026.

Stating that the partnership is a strategic move to integrate wine into major cultural moments, CEO of Hill-Smith Family Estates, Karl Martin, said: “This partnership with the NFL puts Y Series right where people want us – in big moments, shared rituals and time spent together.”

“It’s about bringing wine into high-energy environments and showing up as part of how people celebrate, connect and unwind, on game day and beyond,” Martin said.

Highlighting the importance of local partnerships as the league expands its international footprint, general manager of NFL Australia and New Zealand, Charlotte Offord, noted: “As we continue building towards our first-ever regular season game this September, we’re proud to be joining forces with Y Series to bring great Australian wine to the heart of game day.”

“With a rapidly growing fan base across the region, this partnership helps us create memorable, local experiences that bring fans together, and enhance how people celebrate the NFL in Australia,” Offord said.

As the Official Wine Partner of the Melbourne Game, Y Series will lead experiential activations and in-game branding, with its range of wines served at the MCG and throughout associated events.

To mark the collaboration, Hill-Smith Family Estates, the family-owned producer behind Y Series, will launch a limited-edition Y Series x NFL range nationally later this year. The brand is also offering a marquee consumer promotion, giving two Australian fans a trip to Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles in February 2027.

Samsung Canada Named Exclusive TV and Mobile Partner of Canada Soccer

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Courtney

Canada Soccer and Canadian Soccer Media & Entertainment (CSME) have announced a new cornerstone partnership with Samsung Canada.

The multi-year agreement establishes Samsung as the Exclusive and Official TV and Mobile Partner of Canada Soccer, aimed at leveraging advanced technology to enhance the viewing experience for fans as the nation prepares to co-host the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Emphasising the role of innovation in fan connection, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Samsung Canada, Pat Bugos, noted: “At Samsung, we’re passionate about using technology to bring fans closer to the moments that matter most.”

“This partnership allows us to deliver immersive viewing experiences that bring the energy and atmosphere of the match into Canadians’ homes, helping fans feel connected to the action, even when they can’t be there in person,” Bugos said.

CSME (formerly Canadian Soccer Business) recently rebranded and restructured its marketing rights to better coordinate the federation’s commercial growth.

Noting that Samsung’s leadership will be vital in deepening fan engagement, Canada Soccer COO and CFO, Erin Crowe, said: “Their leadership in technology and innovation will help deliver more immersive and accessible viewing experiences, bringing supporters closer to the action wherever they are.”

Highlighting the partnership as a benchmark for the sport’s commercial evolution in Canada, chief commercial officer of CSME, Michael Beckerman, added: “By bringing Samsung’s world-class products and visionary spirit to the pitch, we are ensuring that the fastest-growing sport in Canada is supported by a brand that truly understands innovation and performance.”

The partnership integrates Samsung’s ecosystem of AI-powered TVs, smartphones, and tablets into marquee Canada Soccer events and fan environments.

This collaboration launches alongside Samsung’s 2026 product cycle, featuring “Samsung Vision AI” technology designed to deliver immersive match-day atmospheres directly into Canadian homes.

A central component of the launch includes exclusive fan engagement initiatives, such as the “VIP Canada Soccer Experience” contest, offering supporters access to national team matches and official merchandise.

The agreement ensures Samsung technology will be a constant presence across both the Men’s and Women’s National Teams, as well as the TELUS Canadian Championship and Canadian Premier League (CPL) assets.

Coffs Harbour Retains DoorDash National Youth Championships for 2026

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Courtney

Touch Football Australia, in conjunction with Destination NSW and the City of Coffs Harbour, has today confirmed that the 2026 DoorDash National Youth Championships (DoorDash National Youth Championships ) will return to C.ex Coffs International Stadium.

Scheduled to run from Monday, 28 September to Thursday, 1 October 2026, the event marks the third consecutive year the premier youth tournament has been hosted on the Mid-North Coast.

The tournament remains a significant commercial driver for the region, contributing more than $5 million in economic benefit annually to the New South Wales and Coffs Harbour economies.

As one of the two flagship events on the national touch football calendar, the DoorDash National Youth Championships serves as a critical talent pathway for junior participants, bridging the gap between grassroots competition and elite representative levels.

Expressing the organisation’s appreciation for the ongoing government support, Touch Football Australia CEO, Marcus Ashcroft, said: “The DoorDash National Youth Championships plays such a key role in our sport’s pathways, and we’re grateful for the continued support from Destination NSW and City of Coffs Harbour in what has become a fantastic home for the event.”

“We’re excited to once again showcase the next generation of Touch Football talent on the national stage, and the exceptional facilities and hospitality in Coffs Harbour ensure our participants continue to enjoy a positive experience at the NYC,” Ashcroft said.

The 2025 edition saw a highly competitive showcase of talent, where Queensland Representative School Sport secured the Under-18 Girls title, while NSW Combined Independent Schools claimed a dramatic victory in the Boys division. C

ity of Coffs Harbour Mayor Nikki Williams highlighted the precinct’s unique ability to host mass-participation events. “The C.ex Coffs International Stadium-anchored sports precinct enables this mass-participation gala to be held at the one venue in a laidback family-friendly city where it’s easy to get around and catch the sights,” Williams said.

Touch Football Australia confirmed it is currently working with strategic partners to secure venues and dates for the subsequent three-year cycle from 2027 to 2029.

For the 2026 event, fans nationwide will be able to access the action via a free, exclusive livestream on the BarTV website and app.

Netball NSW Secures IMB Bank as Premier League Naming Rights Partner

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Courtney

Netball NSW has announced a three-year partnership with IMB Bank, which will see the state’s elite domestic competition rebranded as the IMB Bank Premier League.

The agreement, which runs through to the end of 2028, positions the member-owned bank as a primary supporter of the development pathways for netball talent across New South Wales.

The IMB Bank Premier League serves as the pinnacle of domestic competition in the state, held every Wednesday night at Netball Central. It provides a critical sub-elite platform for athletes, coaches, and officials, serving as a direct bridge to professional opportunities with the NSW Swifts and GIANTS Netball via their respective academies.

Stating that the partnership aligns with the bank’s 146-year history of community investment, IMB Bank CEO, Rob Ryan, said: “We are delighted to become the naming rights partner of the IMB Bank Premier League.”

“We strongly believe in the power of sport to foster healthy competition, build the character and resilience of young people, and help people feel a sense of belonging in their communities,” Ryan said.

Noting that the infusion of corporate support is vital for the league’s ongoing professionalisation, Netball NSW general manager of competitions, Stacy Harding, added: “We’re thrilled to welcome IMB Bank as the naming rights partner of the Netball NSW Premier League.”

“This partnership will play an important role in strengthening the Premier League and enhancing opportunities for athletes, coaches and officials across New South Wales,” Harding said.

Strategically, the deal provides IMB Bank with high-frequency brand exposure within a key demographic, while Netball NSW secures the financial stability required to maintain its high-performance environment.

The partnership underscores a shared commitment to community health and the structural integrity of the netball pathway, ensuring that emerging talent has a supported route from local clubs to the national stage.

The 2026 IMB Bank Premier League season officially commenced this month, with the bank’s activation set to feature prominently throughout the competition’s winter schedule.

IMG Appoints Barney Francis as Chief Business Officer in Global Leadership Restructure

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Courtney

Global sports marketing agency IMG has announced an overhaul of its senior leadership team designed to centralise its commercial and client operations.

The restructure comes as the agency seeks to scale its impact across a rapidly evolving media landscape, following a year of significant partnership extensions with major organisations including CONMEBOL, MLS, and the Saudi Pro League.

Effective immediately, Barney Francis has been appointed to the newly created role of chief business officer.

Francis, who previously served as executive vice president of IMG Studios, will now lead all integrated commercial functions. In this capacity, he is tasked with driving global growth and maximising value creation across the agency’s diverse portfolio of leagues, federations, and brands.

Noting that the move is aimed at creating a more cohesive internal structure, IMG president, Adam Kelly, said: “We’ve built strong momentum in recent years, partnering with many of the most iconic rightsholders in sport and media.”

“Our focus now is scaling that impact with further clarity and consistency across the business.

“Bringing our revenue functions together under Barney’s leadership will better connect our capabilities, strengthen execution, and unlock greater value for our partners,” Kelly said.

Guinness will transition from his current role in July and will remain as a consultant until the end of the 2026 calendar year.

The restructure also marks the conclusion of a significant era for the firm, with Chris Guinness, EVP and Global Head of Commercial, Rights, set to depart after more than 30 years.

Praising his long-standing colleague, Kelly, said:“Chris has played a defining role in IMG’s commercial success.

“His leadership and counsel have left a lasting impact on both our culture and the wider industry. “

We are extremely grateful for his contribution over more than three decades.”

In addition to Francis’ appointment, IMG is set to name a chief client & operations officer in the coming weeks. This executive will oversee client services across the agency’s core “capability centres,” which span Rights, Studios, Brand Partnerships, Consulting, Digital & Data, and Event Management.

Chemist Warehouse Extends Landmark AFL Partnership with Focus on Officiating

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Courtney

Chemist Warehouse has announced a multi-year renewal of its long-standing partnership with the Australian Football League (AFL), extending a relationship that has spanned more than a decade.

The deal reinforces the pharmacy retailer’s position as a primary health and wellbeing partner across the football ecosystem, supporting players, staff, and grassroots communities through the new integrated platform, “ALL IN for Footy.”

Commenting on the announcement, Deputy CEO of Chemist Warehouse, Mario Tascone, said: “For more than a decade, our partnership with the AFL has been built on shared values, community impact and a belief in what’s possible when you commit for the long term.”

“This announcement is a celebration of going ALL IN — for the game and for the moments that bring Australians together, on and off the field,” Tascone said.

The partnership also secures Chemist Warehouse as the official Friday Footy sponsor within the AFL Live Official App, ensuring the brand remains a constant fixture in the digital habits of fans.

Welcoming their continued support, AFL executive general manager of customer, Commercial and Technology, Bec Haagsma, added: “The AFL is thrilled to announce the renewal with Chemist Warehouse and continue the long-standing partnership.”

“We thank Chemist Warehouse for their ongoing support, especially the investment in umpires who are integral to our game at all levels – without umpires our game wouldn’t be played,” Haagsma said.

A central pillar of the renewed agreement is a significant investment in the AFL’s officiating department. Under the initiative, Chemist Warehouse will support AFL and AFLW umpires, while also funding development pathways within the VFL, VFLW, and Community Talent League.

The commitment is highlighted by a minimum $1 million investment over the next five years into the AFL Umpires High Performance Pathway, funded specifically through a portion of sales from Gello Beans and Gello Snakes products.

The timing of the announcement aligns with AFL Umpires Community Week (13–17 April 2026), designed to highlight the critical role officials play in the sport’s sustainability. The funding will provide emerging umpires with access to high-performance resources and structured development opportunities previously reserved for elite athletes.

Melbourne Victory Secures Partnership with Local Brand Roasting Warehouse

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Courtney

Melbourne Victory has announced a new partnership with Roasting Warehouse, aligning the club with a local, family-run business that has become a staple of Melbourne’s renowned coffee culture.

The collaboration will see the three-generation coffee roaster become an integral part of the club’s daily operations, providing bespoke blends to fuel players and staff.

Roasting Warehouse has undergone significant expansion since its inception, evolving from a boutique micro-roastery in North Melbourne into a premier roasting facility in Airport West. The brand’s growth now extends beyond Victoria, with interstate locations in Queensland and Western Australia, alongside an international presence in Athens, Greece.

Highlighting the cultural synergy between the two organisations, Melbourne Victory managing director, Caroline Carnegie, said: “We are excited to collaborate with Roasting Warehouse, a community-oriented destination for high-quality coffee, proud of its foundations in Melbourne.”

“The two go hand in hand, consistently at the centre of the conversation that stirs Melburnians, which is no different to the conversation sport and Melbourne Victory stir in the State,” Carnegie said.

Expressing pride in supporting a franchise that resonates deeply with the local community, head of brand at Roasting Warehouse, Alexander Paraskevopoulos, added: “We’re incredibly proud to partner with Melbourne Victory, a club that represents the heart, passion, and ambition of Melbourne.”

“As a Melbourne-founded, family-run business, supporting a team that means so much to the local community feels very natural for us.

“We’re excited to fuel the players and staff with coffee crafted right here, and to be part of the everyday moments that drive performance on and off the pitch,” Paraskevopoulos said.

Melbourne Mavericks Partner with Macca’s and Ronald McDonald House for Round 6 Clash

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Courtney

The Melbourne Mavericks have announced a community partnership with Macca’s and Ronald McDonald House, naming the charity as the official match day partner for their Round 6 Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) fixture against the West Coast Fever.

The collaboration focuses on raising vital funds and awareness for the essential services provided by Ronald McDonald House, which offers accommodation and support for families with seriously ill or injured children.

Highlighting the importance of using the club’s professional platform for social impact, Mavs general manager, Shae Bolton‑Brown, said: “Ronald McDonald House provides an incredible support system for families during the most challenging times of their lives.”

“As a club, we’re passionate about using our platform to help raise awareness and support causes that truly make a difference, and we’re grateful to Macca’s and our fans for getting behind this important round,” Bolton‑Brown said.

CEO of Ronald McDonald House Victoria & Tasmania, Peter Bishop, remarked that the inclusion in the Mavericks’ match day experience is a meaningful opportunity for the organisation.

“Being part of the Melbourne Mavericks game for a second year means a lot to the families that we support.”

“Every donation made ensures families have a safe, supported place to stay while their child receives treatment.

“The more we raise together, the more families we can be there for,” Bishop said.

Scheduled for Sunday, 19 April 2026, at John Cain Arena, the event provides a high-visibility platform for the charity. Ronald McDonald House currently ensures that families can remain together while a child receives medical treatment, providing a critical support system close to major hospitals.

Fans in attendance will be encouraged to contribute via a dedicated text-to-donate service or through volunteers stationed throughout the venue.

The partnership is now in its second year, reinforcing a long-term commercial and community alignment between the Mavericks and their corporate partners.

GIANTS CEO David Matthews to Step Down at Conclusion of 2026 Season

Posted on April 16, 2026 by Courtney

After more than 15 years at the helm, GIANTS CEO, David Matthews, has announced he will step down from his role at the conclusion of the 2026 AFL season.

Matthews, who joined the club in 2011 from his executive position at the AFL, has been a foundational figure in the franchise’s history, overseeing its transformation from an expansion project into a consistent contender within the national landscape.

Matthews’ tenure has been defined by the successful establishment of the club in the highly competitive markets of Western Sydney and Canberra.

Under his leadership, the GIANTS have developed a robust commercial and high-performance framework, including the securing of long-term partnerships with the ACT Government, Toyo Tires, and Harvey Norman.

His oversight was also instrumental in the development of a world-class $35 million training and administration facility at Sydney Olympic Park, providing the club with the infrastructure required to compete at the elite level.

Reflecting on his departure, Matthews acknowledged the collective effort required to build the 18th AFL licence.

“It has been a privilege to lead the GIANTS and I am grateful to the players, staff, members and fans that have built this club.”

“Now that the foundations of the club are well established it is time for the next challenge.

“I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and firmly believe there is an exciting future ahead for the club,” Matthews said.

Expressing the board’s appreciation for Matthews’ extensive service to the organisation, GIANTS president, Tim Reed, added: “The club extends its sincere gratitude to David for his leadership, passion, and tireless contribution over more than a decade.”

“His legacy will remain embedded in the fabric of the GIANTS,” Mr Reed said.

AFL CEO, Andrew Dillon, also credited Matthews’ resilience as a key factor in the league’s expansion success.

“David has played a major role in developing and leading AFL strategies since he commenced at head office in 1998.”

“His creativity and resilience have the GIANTS in the position they are in today.

“And personally I look forward to his ongoing contribution to the growth of our game,” Dillon said.

On the field, Matthews managed the critical coaching transitions from Kevin Sheedy to Leon Cameron and eventually Adam Kingsley, a strategy that has seen the men’s team compete in eight of the last ten finals series. He was also a staunch advocate for the inception of the AFLW, ensuring the GIANTS were a foundation club in the women’s competition. These achievements helped drive the club toward a projected membership milestone of 40,000 in 2026.

The GIANTS will initiate a formal process to appoint a successor in the coming months.

Matthews will remain in his position through the end of the year to facilitate a seamless leadership transition, ensuring the club maintains its commercial and competitive momentum as it enters its next chapter.

Moana Pasifika to Disband Following 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Season

Posted on April 16, 2026 by Courtney

The Moana Pasifika Board has confirmed the franchise will be disbanded at the conclusion of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.

Despite five years of competing and establishing a unique cultural identity within the league, the Auckland-based side has determined that continued operation is no longer financially or strategically viable.

Since joining the competition in 2022 alongside the Fijian Drua, Moana Pasifika has relied on government grants and World Rugby funding. While the Pasifika Medical Association Group acquired majority ownership in 2024, the franchise has struggled to secure sustainable long-term investment.

Sharing their statement, a Moana Pasifika spokesperson, said: “This decision comes after extensive consideration of the financial, operational, and strategic realities facing the franchise as well as professional rugby in New Zealand.”

“Despite the tireless dedication of players, staff, and supporters, it is no longer viable to continue the franchise at this level of competition,” they said.

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) expressed disappointment at the news but indicated it remains open to salvaging the team if new investors emerge. NZR stated it is aware of parties exploring sustainable plans and is willing to engage in discussions regarding the club’s future participation. However, without an immediate financial lifeline, the competition is expected to contract to ten teams in 2027.

The disbandment occurs during a season of transition, with head coach and former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga already scheduled to depart to join Dave Rennie’s All Blacks coaching staff. Umaga had previously urged World Rugby to reconsider its funding model, highlighting the global contribution of Pacific Island players to the sport.

Moana Pasifika chair Dr Kiki Maoate emphasised that the club’s priority is now ensuring a smooth transition for staff and players while celebrating the legacy of the talent pathways they helped establish.

Associate professor of Indigenous and Sport research at Unitec, Dr Dion Enari, described the team as a “lifeline” and a vital marker of cultural identity.