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Rugby in Australia has never been stronger according to participation statistics released by the ARU today.
The statistics highlight improvement in areas across the board, most notably the increase in junior numbers in New South Wales and Queensland and senior players in Western Australia, South Australia and Victoria.
ARU Managing Director and CEO, John O’Neill welcomed the record participation figures.
“These represent historic highs for our game and are very pleasing,” Mr O’Neill said.
The figures are just reward to the ongoing commitment given to the sport over the last four years and O’Neill believes Rugby has and will continue to develop.
“They (the statistics) also reinforce the fact we are continuing to grow the game of Rugby across the country, winning the hearts and minds of the Australian sporting public.”
The performances of the national side last year encouraged a higher level of interest. The Wallabies, in winning their first Tri Nations title in a decade, reinvigorated a passion for the sport in Australia that had seemingly been lacking.
In terms of figures, an overall record of 261,437 people played Rugby in 2011, which was an increase of 52,404 on 2010. Of those, 47,430 were junior participants, reinforcing a positive future for Australian Rugby.
New South Wales and Queensland continue to be the driving force behind player development in Australia, accounting for 73.02% of the participants in Australia (41.78% in NSW; 31.24% QLD). Elsewhere, ACT 10.12%, WA 8.57%, VIC 4.33% SA 2.66%, NT 0.80% and TAS 0.49% make up the remaining numbers.
John O’Neill believes people will continue to at least investigate what Rugby has to offer.
“There is a lot of competition among the football codes in Australia but I’m confident people will look at what Rugby can offer them and choose to join our great game in 2012.” Mr. O’Neill said.
The announcement marks the beginning of a National Registration Day, to commence on Saturday around the country. Rugby’s future players will have the opportunity to meet and greet some of their international heroes as well as those from the FxPro Super Rugby league.
The figures will give confidence to everyone involved in Rugby as they lead into a big season. The Super Rugby competition, Rugby Internationals in June and The Championship kicking-off in August headline an exciting year in the sport.
John O’Neill hopes the sport can “capitalise on the buzz surrounding the game”.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.