The new Wests Tigers centre of rugby league will become the operational hub for the club’s community, education and pathways programs in Campbelltown and the region.
Based within the Western Sydney University’s Campbelltown campus, the new facility will support the important work of Empower and its various community engagement programs, as well as junior rugby league activities to foster growth in participation across the South West.
The centre was officially opened last week, following the completion of the project in partnership with Western Sydney University (WSU).
NSW Rugby League (NSWRL) and NRL game development officers will also be based out of the centre, to support their ongoing work throughout the region.
The establishment of the centre is also another important element of the Wests Tigers presence in the South West and embeds the club into a university setting, building on an already established partnership with WSU around education, research and student pathways.
The completion of the centre comes off the back of confirmation of a $52 million redevelopment of Campbelltown Sports Stadium, newly established pathway programs at Eagle Vale High School and the ongoing success of Empower and its programs at local schools.
Wests Tigers CEO, Shane Richardson said the facility would support various elements of the club’s work in the South West.
“The establishment of this centre will underpin the work we do right across the region and is directly connected to the club’s strategic vision,” Mr Richardson said.
“It’s about connecting with our fans, enhancing the great work already being done across our development pathway, and using rugby league as a vehicle to make a positive impact in the community through Empower.
“With NSW Rugby League and NRL also sharing this space, it only strengthens our game’s presence in the South West.
“We’ve already got a fantastic relationship with Western Sydney University and we’re grateful for their ongoing support of Empower and our education programs more broadly.
“It’s a partnership that is so important for our work in the community and I’d like to thank the university for their support in establishing this centre,” he said.
WSU vice-chancellor and president, Professor George Williams, the university was proud to deepen its partnership with the Wests Tigers through the establishment of the new centre of rugby league on the Campbelltown campus.
“This centre will provide a home for the Wests Tigers in the heart of Macarthur, and it reflects our shared commitment to creating opportunities for young people across South West Sydney,” Prof Williams said.
“Embedding the club within a university setting also opens up new opportunities for student placements, internships, research collaboration and hands-on learning experiences.
“This is a significant step forward for our partnership and for the communities we serve in Macarthur and South West Sydney,” he said.