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Waratahs moving to Leichhardt for the 2022 season

(@declan)
Balmain Tigers SG Ball Admin
Joined: 5 years ago
Posts: 347
Topic starter  

Apparently the NSW Waratahs are moving to Leichhardt for the 2022 season. Just curious to get everyone’s thoughts? Should the Tigers be worried that another code is going into their territory or is it not really a concern considering how far behind union has fallen in popularity in recent years in Australia? 

My thoughts are that it’s not really a huge deal because the Waratahs are traditionally based in the Eastern Suburbs which means this wouldn’t be a long term thing, not to mention the low crowds that they’ve pulled in Parramatta stadium. Rugby Union has neglected the West for a while now so I don’t think the Waratahs playing at leichhardt is a big deal. 

Also the Tigers lose money every time they play at leichhardt as opposed to the bigger stadiums which is why I it’s hard to justify playing more games there as sad as it is to say. 


   
Quote
Garry
(@garry)
Wests Tigers Development Player Admin
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 4965
 

I think it shows how far rugby has fallen.

In memory of Geoff Chisholm (1965-2022)


   
Mike reacted
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(@jedi-tiger)
Wests Tigers Development Player
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 4338
 

Rugby has lost the plot but Leichardt is still a great place to watch football from. If they were going to pump money into a boutique ground then Leichardt would be it.

Benefits of Leichardt for rugby is it is still close to North shore rah rah territory like Gordon Norths etc and easts and even west harbour. 

 

 


   
Joel Helmes reacted
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(@tiger5150)
Wests Tigers Development Player
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 3803
 
Posted by: @jedi-tiger

Rugby has lost the plot but Leichardt is still a great place to watch football from. If they were going to pump money into a boutique ground then Leichardt would be it.

Benefits of Leichardt for rugby is it is still close to North shore rah rah territory like Gordon Norths etc and easts and even west harbour. 

 

 

Agree with this and I think its a good thing that multiple users make good and frequent use of the place so it keeps relevant and in the minds of people who matter for upgrades

 

 


   
Garry and Joel Helmes reacted
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(@helmesy)
Wests Tigers Development Player Admin
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 4738
 

We (the podcast) got a mention in this article https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/nsw-waratahs-set-up-base-at-leichhardt-oval-for-new-season/news-story/77f80adff1a07d94d870481c3302b76d

Wests Tigers Podcast - Talking everything Wests Tigers!


   
Mike reacted
ReplyQuote
Garry
(@garry)
Wests Tigers Development Player Admin
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 4965
 

Our very own @helmesy quoted in the telegraph on this is issue.

 

NSW Waratahs set up base at Leichhardt Oval for new season

The Waratahs are heading to the inner west with the union outfit set to play more games at Leichhardt Oval than Wests Tigers this season. Here’s why Tigers fans are all for it.

 
 
 
 
 
 

The NSW Waratahs will bring rugby union to Leichhardt Oval this season – playing five of their seven matches at the historic ground.

By comparison Wests Tigers will play just three rounds at the spiritual home of the former Balmain Tigers in what some are calling a significant encroachment in the battle of the codes.

Paul Doorn, CEO of NSW Rugby Union and the Waratahs, explained a large part of the decision was down to Covid.

In particular, he said the oval’s hill would enable spectators to spread out to ensure social distancing.

“This is our last year of being in the wilderness before we return to the city,” Mr Doorn said.

“We were very fortunate that Leichhardt Oval had the availability that we needed to be able to play as many home games here in 2022.

“We’re really excited about the move and I know the squad are excited about playing there.”

The Waratahs have a long-term agreement with Venues NSW that has seen them play at their stadiums when available.

It also means the club will call the new Sydney Football Stadium its home from 2023.


 

The Waratahs previously played at Leichhardt Oval against the Melbourne Rebels in August 2020. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

It is more commonly associated with rugby league and as one of three current home grounds of the Wests Tigers.

But Leichhardt Oval will swap six points for a converted try for seven, with the Waratahs hosting the Reds, Force, Crusaders, Hurricanes and Blues at the stadium.

Mr Doorn said the move was a late one forced by the continued entry restrictions into New Zealand and the subsequent reshuffle of fixtures along with the SCG being unavailable on the dates of the rearranged games.

“We had locked in our venues for 2022, but when the fixtures changed everyone had already booked their venues for their own seasons,” Mr Doorn said.

“And although the players liked playing there (SCG), it’s also a challenging space from a spectators perspective, you’re a long way from the action.

“You’ve got the heritage and the prestige of the SCG but you don’t have the intimacy that you get from other venues.”

The club is hoping that fans in the inner west will flock to the Oval to see their heroes play live. Picture: Dean Lewins

The club is hoping that fans in the inner west will flock to the Oval to see their heroes play live. Picture: Dean Lewins

He said the move to Leichhardt had also opened up opportunities for the club in terms of fan experience and atmosphere, with familiarity – for both the players and members – an important consideration behind the move.

“You want to try to establish an environment where your players feel like they’ve got an advantage,” Mr Doorn said.

“From a fan and member perspective it’s also nice to have that familiarity both in getting to the ground and the matchday experience.”

He said the proximity to the airport – in the worst and unlikely case that teams have to fly in and out of games – was also a factor in the decision.

Mr Doorn added: “Leichhardt Oval also provides us the opportunity to spread people out across the hill in the seating area, if need be.

“So it works on a whole host of different fronts, which is really great.”

He added: “Leichhardt Oval always seems to be able to activate itself and supporters.

“It’s a really intimate venue and there’s not a bad seat in the house. We think that it will be a fantastic experience for fans.”

The club believes that Waratah fans will enjoy the intimacy and atmosphere of Leichhardt Oval. Picture: AAP Image/Craig Golding

The club believes that Waratah fans will enjoy the intimacy and atmosphere of Leichhardt Oval. Picture: AAP Image/Craig Golding

The inner west is better known for its rugby league tradition, although there is a large pool of union clubs and players, something Mr Doorn is hoping the Waratahs can tap into.

“Going to live matches has a massive impact on the volume of people taking up the game, particularly younger kids,” he said.

The stadium is closely associated with Wests Tigers and is much loved by fans. Picture: Grant Trouville

The stadium is closely associated with Wests Tigers and is much loved by fans. Picture: Grant Trouville

The Wests Tigers will host three games at Leichhardt Oval in 2022 – playing a majority of home games at the CommBank Stadium for financial reasons.

But the move from the Waratahs has been welcomed by supporters of the Wests Tigers.

Joel Helmes from the Wests Tigers Podcast said that he’s proud to see more games at the venue.

“While the ground is anything but modern there is a unique atmosphere and intimate feel that the Waratah fans and players should enjoy,” he said.

“We hope that union fans will enjoy a ground that most league fans believe is sacred turf.”

Josh Barnett, founder and producer of WestsLife Podcast, hoped that more games being played at the ground would bolster its case for increased state government funding.

Wests Tigers fans during a game against Penrith Panthers in the 2021 NRL season. Picture: Gregg Porteous

Wests Tigers fans during a game against Penrith Panthers in the 2021 NRL season. Picture: Gregg Porteous

“Because the Tigers only play a few games a year there it’s not getting used and the government isn’t going to pour money into it.

“So if more games are played there then the ground might get more funding, which also might lead to the Tigers playing more games there as well.”

Mr Barnett had his wedding photos taken at Leichhardt Oval, such is his connection to and affection for the ground.

“While the new Sydney Football Stadium is being built there’s no better place in Sydney to watch footy than Leichhardt Oval,” he said.

“I’m all for as many sports playing there as possible and Leichhardt Oval being bigger, better and more successful.”

In memory of Geoff Chisholm (1965-2022)


   
Mike and Joel Helmes reacted
ReplyQuote
(@tiger5150)
Wests Tigers Development Player
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 3803
 
Posted by: @garry

Our very own @helmesy quoted in the telegraph on this is issue.

 

NSW Waratahs set up base at Leichhardt Oval for new season

The Waratahs are heading to the inner west with the union outfit set to play more games at Leichhardt Oval than Wests Tigers this season. Here’s why Tigers fans are all for it.

 
 
 
 
 
 

The NSW Waratahs will bring rugby union to Leichhardt Oval this season – playing five of their seven matches at the historic ground.

By comparison Wests Tigers will play just three rounds at the spiritual home of the former Balmain Tigers in what some are calling a significant encroachment in the battle of the codes.

Paul Doorn, CEO of NSW Rugby Union and the Waratahs, explained a large part of the decision was down to Covid.

In particular, he said the oval’s hill would enable spectators to spread out to ensure social distancing.

“This is our last year of being in the wilderness before we return to the city,” Mr Doorn said.

“We were very fortunate that Leichhardt Oval had the availability that we needed to be able to play as many home games here in 2022.

“We’re really excited about the move and I know the squad are excited about playing there.”

The Waratahs have a long-term agreement with Venues NSW that has seen them play at their stadiums when available.

It also means the club will call the new Sydney Football Stadium its home from 2023.


 

The Waratahs previously played at Leichhardt Oval against the Melbourne Rebels in August 2020. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

It is more commonly associated with rugby league and as one of three current home grounds of the Wests Tigers.

But Leichhardt Oval will swap six points for a converted try for seven, with the Waratahs hosting the Reds, Force, Crusaders, Hurricanes and Blues at the stadium.

Mr Doorn said the move was a late one forced by the continued entry restrictions into New Zealand and the subsequent reshuffle of fixtures along with the SCG being unavailable on the dates of the rearranged games.

“We had locked in our venues for 2022, but when the fixtures changed everyone had already booked their venues for their own seasons,” Mr Doorn said.

“And although the players liked playing there (SCG), it’s also a challenging space from a spectators perspective, you’re a long way from the action.

“You’ve got the heritage and the prestige of the SCG but you don’t have the intimacy that you get from other venues.”

The club is hoping that fans in the inner west will flock to the Oval to see their heroes play live. Picture: Dean Lewins

The club is hoping that fans in the inner west will flock to the Oval to see their heroes play live. Picture: Dean Lewins

He said the move to Leichhardt had also opened up opportunities for the club in terms of fan experience and atmosphere, with familiarity – for both the players and members – an important consideration behind the move.

“You want to try to establish an environment where your players feel like they’ve got an advantage,” Mr Doorn said.

“From a fan and member perspective it’s also nice to have that familiarity both in getting to the ground and the matchday experience.”

He said the proximity to the airport – in the worst and unlikely case that teams have to fly in and out of games – was also a factor in the decision.

Mr Doorn added: “Leichhardt Oval also provides us the opportunity to spread people out across the hill in the seating area, if need be.

“So it works on a whole host of different fronts, which is really great.”

He added: “Leichhardt Oval always seems to be able to activate itself and supporters.

“It’s a really intimate venue and there’s not a bad seat in the house. We think that it will be a fantastic experience for fans.”

The club believes that Waratah fans will enjoy the intimacy and atmosphere of Leichhardt Oval. Picture: AAP Image/Craig Golding

The club believes that Waratah fans will enjoy the intimacy and atmosphere of Leichhardt Oval. Picture: AAP Image/Craig Golding

The inner west is better known for its rugby league tradition, although there is a large pool of union clubs and players, something Mr Doorn is hoping the Waratahs can tap into.

“Going to live matches has a massive impact on the volume of people taking up the game, particularly younger kids,” he said.

The stadium is closely associated with Wests Tigers and is much loved by fans. Picture: Grant Trouville

The stadium is closely associated with Wests Tigers and is much loved by fans. Picture: Grant Trouville

The Wests Tigers will host three games at Leichhardt Oval in 2022 – playing a majority of home games at the CommBank Stadium for financial reasons.

But the move from the Waratahs has been welcomed by supporters of the Wests Tigers.

Joel Helmes from the Wests Tigers Podcast said that he’s proud to see more games at the venue.

“While the ground is anything but modern there is a unique atmosphere and intimate feel that the Waratah fans and players should enjoy,” he said.

“We hope that union fans will enjoy a ground that most league fans believe is sacred turf.”

Josh Barnett, founder and producer of WestsLife Podcast, hoped that more games being played at the ground would bolster its case for increased state government funding.

Wests Tigers fans during a game against Penrith Panthers in the 2021 NRL season. Picture: Gregg Porteous

Wests Tigers fans during a game against Penrith Panthers in the 2021 NRL season. Picture: Gregg Porteous

“Because the Tigers only play a few games a year there it’s not getting used and the government isn’t going to pour money into it.

“So if more games are played there then the ground might get more funding, which also might lead to the Tigers playing more games there as well.”

Mr Barnett had his wedding photos taken at Leichhardt Oval, such is his connection to and affection for the ground.

“While the new Sydney Football Stadium is being built there’s no better place in Sydney to watch footy than Leichhardt Oval,” he said.

“I’m all for as many sports playing there as possible and Leichhardt Oval being bigger, better and more successful.”

Ha! Im in that last photo

 


   
ReplyQuote
Garry
(@garry)
Wests Tigers Development Player Admin
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 4965
 
Posted by: @tiger5150
Posted by: @garry

Our very own @helmesy quoted in the telegraph on this is issue.

 

NSW Waratahs set up base at Leichhardt Oval for new season

The Waratahs are heading to the inner west with the union outfit set to play more games at Leichhardt Oval than Wests Tigers this season. Here’s why Tigers fans are all for it.

 
 
 
 
 
 

The NSW Waratahs will bring rugby union to Leichhardt Oval this season – playing five of their seven matches at the historic ground.

By comparison Wests Tigers will play just three rounds at the spiritual home of the former Balmain Tigers in what some are calling a significant encroachment in the battle of the codes.

Paul Doorn, CEO of NSW Rugby Union and the Waratahs, explained a large part of the decision was down to Covid.

In particular, he said the oval’s hill would enable spectators to spread out to ensure social distancing.

“This is our last year of being in the wilderness before we return to the city,” Mr Doorn said.

“We were very fortunate that Leichhardt Oval had the availability that we needed to be able to play as many home games here in 2022.

“We’re really excited about the move and I know the squad are excited about playing there.”

The Waratahs have a long-term agreement with Venues NSW that has seen them play at their stadiums when available.

It also means the club will call the new Sydney Football Stadium its home from 2023.


 

The Waratahs previously played at Leichhardt Oval against the Melbourne Rebels in August 2020. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

It is more commonly associated with rugby league and as one of three current home grounds of the Wests Tigers.

But Leichhardt Oval will swap six points for a converted try for seven, with the Waratahs hosting the Reds, Force, Crusaders, Hurricanes and Blues at the stadium.

Mr Doorn said the move was a late one forced by the continued entry restrictions into New Zealand and the subsequent reshuffle of fixtures along with the SCG being unavailable on the dates of the rearranged games.

“We had locked in our venues for 2022, but when the fixtures changed everyone had already booked their venues for their own seasons,” Mr Doorn said.

“And although the players liked playing there (SCG), it’s also a challenging space from a spectators perspective, you’re a long way from the action.

“You’ve got the heritage and the prestige of the SCG but you don’t have the intimacy that you get from other venues.”

The club is hoping that fans in the inner west will flock to the Oval to see their heroes play live. Picture: Dean Lewins

The club is hoping that fans in the inner west will flock to the Oval to see their heroes play live. Picture: Dean Lewins

He said the move to Leichhardt had also opened up opportunities for the club in terms of fan experience and atmosphere, with familiarity – for both the players and members – an important consideration behind the move.

“You want to try to establish an environment where your players feel like they’ve got an advantage,” Mr Doorn said.

“From a fan and member perspective it’s also nice to have that familiarity both in getting to the ground and the matchday experience.”

He said the proximity to the airport – in the worst and unlikely case that teams have to fly in and out of games – was also a factor in the decision.

Mr Doorn added: “Leichhardt Oval also provides us the opportunity to spread people out across the hill in the seating area, if need be.

“So it works on a whole host of different fronts, which is really great.”

He added: “Leichhardt Oval always seems to be able to activate itself and supporters.

“It’s a really intimate venue and there’s not a bad seat in the house. We think that it will be a fantastic experience for fans.”

The club believes that Waratah fans will enjoy the intimacy and atmosphere of Leichhardt Oval. Picture: AAP Image/Craig Golding

The club believes that Waratah fans will enjoy the intimacy and atmosphere of Leichhardt Oval. Picture: AAP Image/Craig Golding

The inner west is better known for its rugby league tradition, although there is a large pool of union clubs and players, something Mr Doorn is hoping the Waratahs can tap into.

“Going to live matches has a massive impact on the volume of people taking up the game, particularly younger kids,” he said.

The stadium is closely associated with Wests Tigers and is much loved by fans. Picture: Grant Trouville

The stadium is closely associated with Wests Tigers and is much loved by fans. Picture: Grant Trouville

The Wests Tigers will host three games at Leichhardt Oval in 2022 – playing a majority of home games at the CommBank Stadium for financial reasons.

But the move from the Waratahs has been welcomed by supporters of the Wests Tigers.

Joel Helmes from the Wests Tigers Podcast said that he’s proud to see more games at the venue.

“While the ground is anything but modern there is a unique atmosphere and intimate feel that the Waratah fans and players should enjoy,” he said.

“We hope that union fans will enjoy a ground that most league fans believe is sacred turf.”

Josh Barnett, founder and producer of WestsLife Podcast, hoped that more games being played at the ground would bolster its case for increased state government funding.

Wests Tigers fans during a game against Penrith Panthers in the 2021 NRL season. Picture: Gregg Porteous

Wests Tigers fans during a game against Penrith Panthers in the 2021 NRL season. Picture: Gregg Porteous

“Because the Tigers only play a few games a year there it’s not getting used and the government isn’t going to pour money into it.

“So if more games are played there then the ground might get more funding, which also might lead to the Tigers playing more games there as well.”

Mr Barnett had his wedding photos taken at Leichhardt Oval, such is his connection to and affection for the ground.

“While the new Sydney Football Stadium is being built there’s no better place in Sydney to watch footy than Leichhardt Oval,” he said.

“I’m all for as many sports playing there as possible and Leichhardt Oval being bigger, better and more successful.”

Ha! Im in that last photo

 

You and Keith Galloway, I am only just outside the pic but can see a few people i know.

In memory of Geoff Chisholm (1965-2022)


   
ReplyQuote
(@tiger5150)
Wests Tigers Development Player
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 3803
 
Posted by: @garry
Posted by: @tiger5150
Posted by: @garry

Our very own @helmesy quoted in the telegraph on this is issue.

 

NSW Waratahs set up base at Leichhardt Oval for new season

The Waratahs are heading to the inner west with the union outfit set to play more games at Leichhardt Oval than Wests Tigers this season. Here’s why Tigers fans are all for it.

 
 
 
 
 
 

The NSW Waratahs will bring rugby union to Leichhardt Oval this season – playing five of their seven matches at the historic ground.

By comparison Wests Tigers will play just three rounds at the spiritual home of the former Balmain Tigers in what some are calling a significant encroachment in the battle of the codes.

Paul Doorn, CEO of NSW Rugby Union and the Waratahs, explained a large part of the decision was down to Covid.

In particular, he said the oval’s hill would enable spectators to spread out to ensure social distancing.

“This is our last year of being in the wilderness before we return to the city,” Mr Doorn said.

“We were very fortunate that Leichhardt Oval had the availability that we needed to be able to play as many home games here in 2022.

“We’re really excited about the move and I know the squad are excited about playing there.”

The Waratahs have a long-term agreement with Venues NSW that has seen them play at their stadiums when available.

It also means the club will call the new Sydney Football Stadium its home from 2023.


 

The Waratahs previously played at Leichhardt Oval against the Melbourne Rebels in August 2020. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

It is more commonly associated with rugby league and as one of three current home grounds of the Wests Tigers.

But Leichhardt Oval will swap six points for a converted try for seven, with the Waratahs hosting the Reds, Force, Crusaders, Hurricanes and Blues at the stadium.

Mr Doorn said the move was a late one forced by the continued entry restrictions into New Zealand and the subsequent reshuffle of fixtures along with the SCG being unavailable on the dates of the rearranged games.

“We had locked in our venues for 2022, but when the fixtures changed everyone had already booked their venues for their own seasons,” Mr Doorn said.

“And although the players liked playing there (SCG), it’s also a challenging space from a spectators perspective, you’re a long way from the action.

“You’ve got the heritage and the prestige of the SCG but you don’t have the intimacy that you get from other venues.”

The club is hoping that fans in the inner west will flock to the Oval to see their heroes play live. Picture: Dean Lewins

The club is hoping that fans in the inner west will flock to the Oval to see their heroes play live. Picture: Dean Lewins

He said the move to Leichhardt had also opened up opportunities for the club in terms of fan experience and atmosphere, with familiarity – for both the players and members – an important consideration behind the move.

“You want to try to establish an environment where your players feel like they’ve got an advantage,” Mr Doorn said.

“From a fan and member perspective it’s also nice to have that familiarity both in getting to the ground and the matchday experience.”

He said the proximity to the airport – in the worst and unlikely case that teams have to fly in and out of games – was also a factor in the decision.

Mr Doorn added: “Leichhardt Oval also provides us the opportunity to spread people out across the hill in the seating area, if need be.

“So it works on a whole host of different fronts, which is really great.”

He added: “Leichhardt Oval always seems to be able to activate itself and supporters.

“It’s a really intimate venue and there’s not a bad seat in the house. We think that it will be a fantastic experience for fans.”

The club believes that Waratah fans will enjoy the intimacy and atmosphere of Leichhardt Oval. Picture: AAP Image/Craig Golding

The club believes that Waratah fans will enjoy the intimacy and atmosphere of Leichhardt Oval. Picture: AAP Image/Craig Golding

The inner west is better known for its rugby league tradition, although there is a large pool of union clubs and players, something Mr Doorn is hoping the Waratahs can tap into.

“Going to live matches has a massive impact on the volume of people taking up the game, particularly younger kids,” he said.

The stadium is closely associated with Wests Tigers and is much loved by fans. Picture: Grant Trouville

The stadium is closely associated with Wests Tigers and is much loved by fans. Picture: Grant Trouville

The Wests Tigers will host three games at Leichhardt Oval in 2022 – playing a majority of home games at the CommBank Stadium for financial reasons.

But the move from the Waratahs has been welcomed by supporters of the Wests Tigers.

Joel Helmes from the Wests Tigers Podcast said that he’s proud to see more games at the venue.

“While the ground is anything but modern there is a unique atmosphere and intimate feel that the Waratah fans and players should enjoy,” he said.

“We hope that union fans will enjoy a ground that most league fans believe is sacred turf.”

Josh Barnett, founder and producer of WestsLife Podcast, hoped that more games being played at the ground would bolster its case for increased state government funding.

Wests Tigers fans during a game against Penrith Panthers in the 2021 NRL season. Picture: Gregg Porteous

Wests Tigers fans during a game against Penrith Panthers in the 2021 NRL season. Picture: Gregg Porteous

“Because the Tigers only play a few games a year there it’s not getting used and the government isn’t going to pour money into it.

“So if more games are played there then the ground might get more funding, which also might lead to the Tigers playing more games there as well.”

Mr Barnett had his wedding photos taken at Leichhardt Oval, such is his connection to and affection for the ground.

“While the new Sydney Football Stadium is being built there’s no better place in Sydney to watch footy than Leichhardt Oval,” he said.

“I’m all for as many sports playing there as possible and Leichhardt Oval being bigger, better and more successful.”

Ha! Im in that last photo

 

You and Keith Galloway, I am only just outside the pic but can see a few people i know.

Is that big Keef standing at the back?

 


   
ReplyQuote
Garry
(@garry)
Wests Tigers Development Player Admin
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 4965
 
Posted by: @tiger5150
Posted by: @garry
Posted by: @tiger5150
Posted by: @garry

Our very own @helmesy quoted in the telegraph on this is issue.

 

NSW Waratahs set up base at Leichhardt Oval for new season

The Waratahs are heading to the inner west with the union outfit set to play more games at Leichhardt Oval than Wests Tigers this season. Here’s why Tigers fans are all for it.

 
 
 
 
 
 

The NSW Waratahs will bring rugby union to Leichhardt Oval this season – playing five of their seven matches at the historic ground.

By comparison Wests Tigers will play just three rounds at the spiritual home of the former Balmain Tigers in what some are calling a significant encroachment in the battle of the codes.

Paul Doorn, CEO of NSW Rugby Union and the Waratahs, explained a large part of the decision was down to Covid.

In particular, he said the oval’s hill would enable spectators to spread out to ensure social distancing.

“This is our last year of being in the wilderness before we return to the city,” Mr Doorn said.

“We were very fortunate that Leichhardt Oval had the availability that we needed to be able to play as many home games here in 2022.

“We’re really excited about the move and I know the squad are excited about playing there.”

The Waratahs have a long-term agreement with Venues NSW that has seen them play at their stadiums when available.

It also means the club will call the new Sydney Football Stadium its home from 2023.


 

The Waratahs previously played at Leichhardt Oval against the Melbourne Rebels in August 2020. Picture: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

It is more commonly associated with rugby league and as one of three current home grounds of the Wests Tigers.

But Leichhardt Oval will swap six points for a converted try for seven, with the Waratahs hosting the Reds, Force, Crusaders, Hurricanes and Blues at the stadium.

Mr Doorn said the move was a late one forced by the continued entry restrictions into New Zealand and the subsequent reshuffle of fixtures along with the SCG being unavailable on the dates of the rearranged games.

“We had locked in our venues for 2022, but when the fixtures changed everyone had already booked their venues for their own seasons,” Mr Doorn said.

“And although the players liked playing there (SCG), it’s also a challenging space from a spectators perspective, you’re a long way from the action.

“You’ve got the heritage and the prestige of the SCG but you don’t have the intimacy that you get from other venues.”

The club is hoping that fans in the inner west will flock to the Oval to see their heroes play live. Picture: Dean Lewins

The club is hoping that fans in the inner west will flock to the Oval to see their heroes play live. Picture: Dean Lewins

He said the move to Leichhardt had also opened up opportunities for the club in terms of fan experience and atmosphere, with familiarity – for both the players and members – an important consideration behind the move.

“You want to try to establish an environment where your players feel like they’ve got an advantage,” Mr Doorn said.

“From a fan and member perspective it’s also nice to have that familiarity both in getting to the ground and the matchday experience.”

He said the proximity to the airport – in the worst and unlikely case that teams have to fly in and out of games – was also a factor in the decision.

Mr Doorn added: “Leichhardt Oval also provides us the opportunity to spread people out across the hill in the seating area, if need be.

“So it works on a whole host of different fronts, which is really great.”

He added: “Leichhardt Oval always seems to be able to activate itself and supporters.

“It’s a really intimate venue and there’s not a bad seat in the house. We think that it will be a fantastic experience for fans.”

The club believes that Waratah fans will enjoy the intimacy and atmosphere of Leichhardt Oval. Picture: AAP Image/Craig Golding

The club believes that Waratah fans will enjoy the intimacy and atmosphere of Leichhardt Oval. Picture: AAP Image/Craig Golding

The inner west is better known for its rugby league tradition, although there is a large pool of union clubs and players, something Mr Doorn is hoping the Waratahs can tap into.

“Going to live matches has a massive impact on the volume of people taking up the game, particularly younger kids,” he said.

The stadium is closely associated with Wests Tigers and is much loved by fans. Picture: Grant Trouville

The stadium is closely associated with Wests Tigers and is much loved by fans. Picture: Grant Trouville

The Wests Tigers will host three games at Leichhardt Oval in 2022 – playing a majority of home games at the CommBank Stadium for financial reasons.

But the move from the Waratahs has been welcomed by supporters of the Wests Tigers.

Joel Helmes from the Wests Tigers Podcast said that he’s proud to see more games at the venue.

“While the ground is anything but modern there is a unique atmosphere and intimate feel that the Waratah fans and players should enjoy,” he said.

“We hope that union fans will enjoy a ground that most league fans believe is sacred turf.”

Josh Barnett, founder and producer of WestsLife Podcast, hoped that more games being played at the ground would bolster its case for increased state government funding.

Wests Tigers fans during a game against Penrith Panthers in the 2021 NRL season. Picture: Gregg Porteous

Wests Tigers fans during a game against Penrith Panthers in the 2021 NRL season. Picture: Gregg Porteous

“Because the Tigers only play a few games a year there it’s not getting used and the government isn’t going to pour money into it.

“So if more games are played there then the ground might get more funding, which also might lead to the Tigers playing more games there as well.”

Mr Barnett had his wedding photos taken at Leichhardt Oval, such is his connection to and affection for the ground.

“While the new Sydney Football Stadium is being built there’s no better place in Sydney to watch footy than Leichhardt Oval,” he said.

“I’m all for as many sports playing there as possible and Leichhardt Oval being bigger, better and more successful.”

Ha! Im in that last photo

 

You and Keith Galloway, I am only just outside the pic but can see a few people i know.

Is that big Keef standing at the back?

 

Looks like it to me and he is often hanging around that area.

In memory of Geoff Chisholm (1965-2022)


   
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(@tigertownsfs)
Wests Magpies NSW Cup
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 1988
 

I honestly don’t really understand how we lose money playing at Leichhardt. If it’s the big screen hire then the NSW should invest in a permanent screen to make the ground viable. Surely it can’t be catering etc. and if it’s council fees why are the council pricing the team out of the area. It’s not like the ground is being used for anything else. It just doesn’t add up


   
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Garry
(@garry)
Wests Tigers Development Player Admin
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 4965
 
Posted by: @tigertownsfs

I honestly don’t really understand how we lose money playing at Leichhardt. If it’s the big screen hire then the NSW should invest in a permanent screen to make the ground viable. Surely it can’t be catering etc. and if it’s council fees why are the council pricing the team out of the area. It’s not like the ground is being used for anything else. It just doesn’t add up

I have actually asked the club about this and it has improved over the last couple of years.

In memory of Geoff Chisholm (1965-2022)


   
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(@tiger5150)
Wests Tigers Development Player
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 3803
 
Posted by: @garry
Posted by: @tigertownsfs

I honestly don’t really understand how we lose money playing at Leichhardt. If it’s the big screen hire then the NSW should invest in a permanent screen to make the ground viable. Surely it can’t be catering etc. and if it’s council fees why are the council pricing the team out of the area. It’s not like the ground is being used for anything else. It just doesn’t add up

I have actually asked the club about this and it has improved over the last couple of years.

Sounds like it could be a Council issue then because it would seem that all other costs would be reasonably fixed and crowd numbers have been significantly down due to Covid?

 


   
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Garry
(@garry)
Wests Tigers Development Player Admin
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 4965
 
Posted by: @tiger5150
Posted by: @garry
Posted by: @tigertownsfs

I honestly don’t really understand how we lose money playing at Leichhardt. If it’s the big screen hire then the NSW should invest in a permanent screen to make the ground viable. Surely it can’t be catering etc. and if it’s council fees why are the council pricing the team out of the area. It’s not like the ground is being used for anything else. It just doesn’t add up

I have actually asked the club about this and it has improved over the last couple of years.

Sounds like it could be a Council issue then because it would seem that all other costs would be reasonably fixed and crowd numbers have been significantly down due to Covid?

 

I think the conversation i had was in regards to precovid cost. The situation has improved at both traditional homegrounds but has improved more at one them than the other. 

In memory of Geoff Chisholm (1965-2022)


   
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Mike
 Mike
(@mike)
Wests Tigers Development Player
Joined: 3 years ago
Posts: 4538
 
Posted by: @tigertownsfs

I honestly don’t really understand how we lose money playing at Leichhardt. If it’s the big screen hire then the NSW should invest in a permanent screen to make the ground viable. Surely it can’t be catering etc. and if it’s council fees why are the council pricing the team out of the area. It’s not like the ground is being used for anything else. It just doesn’t add up

Understanding the demographics of the local and surrounding areas will explain a lot. Certain segments have the local and state governments by the testes. Nothing will happen until that changes and it won’t happen anytime soon. 


   
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