The NSW Waratahs have today announced they will play trial fixtures against Western Sydney Two Blues, West Harbour and Hunter Wildfires at the brand-new Eric Tweedale Stadium in Granville on Saturday February 5.
Eric Tweedale, the oldest living Waratah and proud Two Blues Alumni, has had the honour of the stadium being named after him in celebration of his 100th birthday earlier this year.
The Waratahs will play a 25-minute third against each of the Shute Shield sides with the fixtures set to be the first matches played on the brand-new facility which is the home of the Western Sydney Two-Blues.
NSW General Manager of Rugby Andrew Blades was delighted to have a hit out against the Shute Shield clubs and connect with the local community.
“Western Sydney Two Blues have done a lot of hard work behind the scenes to get ready for their 2022 campaign and now boast one of the best venues in the Shute Shield and we are delighted to play there,” Blades said.
“Playing three different sides in the same day provides the Waratahs with an ideal way to start the season and a great way to connect back with clubland.
“It’s going to be a fantastic family atmosphere and a great way to open the Eric Tweedale Stadium”.
Western Sydney Two Blues General Manager Christian Burden said “Hosting the Waratahs at our new stadium is a real privilege for the Two Blues and we can’t wait to share the experience and the excitement with our supporters and community.
“We hope to see a big turn out on the day to join in with the festivities we have planned and help promote rugby in Western Sydney.
“Our players are also looking forward to testing themselves against the Waratahs and are working hard to be prepared."
Hunter Wildfires General Manager Stuart Pinkerton said “The Hunter Wildfires can't wait to trial against the NSW Waratahs at the new Eric Tweedale stadium and look forward to a great day of rugby.
“We appreciate the invite from the Tahs and applaud the initiative to trial against Shute Shield clubs.
“Our squad is really aspirational and see this a great opportunity to get some game time in front of NSW Waratahs coach Darren Coleman and his assistants. Good luck to all the clubs involved."
West Harbour Head Coach Joe Barakat said “It is a magnificent honour for West Harbour to be invited to a trial against the Waratahs, Two Blues and Wildfires, but even more of an honour to celebrate the life and Rugby history of one of our most famous Wallabies in Eric Tweedale.
“Our players are looking forward to setting the high standards required for success in the Shute Shield.”
Further details on the trial and surrounding events will be confirmed in the New Year.
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Fixture details:
NSW Waratahs v Western Sydney/ West Harbour/ Hunter Wildfires Saturday 5 February
Eric Tweedale Stadium, Granville
4:00pm Waratahs v West Harbour
4:30pm Waratahs v Hunter Wildfires
5:00pm Waratahs v Two Blues
5:30pm West Harbour v Hunter Wildfires
6:00pm West Harbour v Two Blues
6:30pm Two Blues v Hunter Wildfires
