Sunshine Coast Stadium to host Women’s State of Origin for the second time
The Maroons will have a chance to defend their shield on home soil this year with confirmation the women’s event will return to the Coast.
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The Maroons will have a chance to defend their shield on home soil this year with confirmation the women's event will return to the region.
The National Rugby League announced on Tuesday morning that Sunshine Coast Stadium would host the match on June 25.
The Maroons were victorious with a 24-18 win over New South Wales at the stadium last year.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said the Sunshine Coast deserved to host the Women's State of Origin again following the success of 2020.
"Women's Origin is one of the highlights of our calendar and we're excited to see it return to the Sunshine Coast," Mr Abdo said.
"Last year's game was an incredible success, albeit with COVID restrictions.
"We're looking forward to giving the Sunshine Coast community the opportunity to fill Sunshine Coast Stadium this year."
In a historic first, both teams will feature female coaches with Tahnee Norris coaching the Maroons and Kylie Hilder overseeing the Blues.
Mr Abdo said the rate of women playing rugby league was continuing to grow.
"Women's rugby league is the fastest growing part of our game and this year we will create history with two female coaches, that's a great acknowledgment of the talent in our female ranks," he said.
Tourism and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said Queenslanders would welcome the match once again with open arms.
"Not only did last year's game bring an exciting spectacle of skill, it also brought fans and visitors to the Sunshine Coast, providing a welcome boost for local tourism operators," Mr Hinchliffe said.
"Queensland became a major sporting hub last year and many codes and competitors are returning again this year after enjoying our world-class facilities and incredible lifestyle."
Sunshine Coast councillor Peter Cox said council was excited to welcome back the Origin for the second time in two years.
"The Sunshine Coast was thrilled to host the first Women's State of Origin match played in Queensland last year and after the Maroons' thrilling win in that match we're confident of another sellout crowd," Cr Cox said.
Tickets are on sale here.
Supporters can watch the historic match from just $5 for juniors, $15 for adults and $35 for families (a one-off handling fee of $2.50 applies on all transactions).
The full Ampol State of Origin series is as follows:
- Game I - Wednesday, June 9, MCG
- Game II - Sunday, June 27, Suncorp Stadium
- Game III - Wednesday, July 14, Stadium Australia
- Women's SOO - Friday, June 25, Sunshine Coast Stadium
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