The countdown to Australia’s biggest sporting rivalry is officially on as the National Rugby League (NRL) launched this year’s Ampol State of Origin Series today in Adelaide.
Following an incredible sold-out series and a dramatic late win for the Queensland Maroons over the NSW Blues in 2022, Adelaide Oval is set to host one of the most anticipated Origin matchups ever at the end of May.
It will only be the second State of Origin clash to be played in SA, and the first in front of a full-capacity crowd since COVID restricted the attendance to 25,000 in Game One of the 2020 series. This year, that number is set to double as the Adelaide Oval welcomes a full crowd to this game.
South Australia’s Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison MP said that the return of State of Origin would provide a major boost to the South Australian economy.
“Hosting State of Origin Game One in May will be a true highlight amongst the world-class events we’ve brought to South Australia this year. With fans travelling in their tens of thousands from within and outside the state, the game will be worth an estimated $15 million our hotels, restaurants and cafes. We can’t wait to welcome Blues and Maroons fans back to Adelaide.”
Minister Bettison was joined for the launch in Victoria Square by State of Origin legends including the series’ all-time leading points scorer, Johnathan Thurston, and over 40 local students from East Torrens Primary School.
Queensland Maroons Assistant Coach, Thurston, called on South Australian fans to get behind the rivalry and choose their colours for Game One.
“We’re looking forward to getting down to Adelaide – the boys have good memories here from 2020. There’s nothing like the intensity of an Origin battle, no matter where we’re playing – and the fans have a big part in that. I hope we’ll see plenty of Maroon around the stadium this year.”
The kids from East Torrens Primary School are hoping to play their own part in the rivalry, by entering the Ampol Little Origin competition. This program gives Year 5 and Year 6 students a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take the field to play at half-time throughout the Ampol State of Origin and Women’s State of Origin series.
Applications are open until 6 April for students across New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia. For more information and to apply on behalf of your school, click here.
Where: Adelaide Oval.
When: Wednesday, 31st of May 2023.
Tickets: Ampol State of Origin Game One tickets are available now, starting at just $49 for adults and $195 for families, click here.
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