NEWS

Rabbitohs and Dragons Share Win in Race to 10,000

27 Feb 2010

The biggest membership race in Rugby League history has finished in a thrilling dead-heat with South Sydney and St George Illawarra both crashing through the barrier of 10,000 ticketed members in the same week.

The NRL chose the annual Charity Shield match at ANZ Stadium to announce the Rabbitohs and Dragons will share the ‘Race to 10,000’ title.

In recognition of the achievement by Members from both clubs, the NRL and its media partners have increased the original prize pool from $50,000 to $100,000 which includes advertising and marketing support and $10,000 cash each.

It will be the first time two Sydney Clubs have entered the season with 10,000 Ticketed Members each.

For the first time, Sydney clubs are looking to rival membership front runners the Brisbane Broncos who boast 12,000 ticketed members.

“It’s been a great way to kick off the season,” NRL Chief Executive, Mr David Gallop, said today.

“And while it’s not often that you have more than one winner in sport there is no doubt that this has been a win-win for the Rabbitohs, the Dragons and indeed all the clubs.

“Membership is an increasingly important part of the game’s future and a real way for fans

to share their passion and their pride in their team.”

Rabbitohs CEO Shane Richardson says the Rabbitohs Members have done an outstanding job in hitting the Club’s first milestone for the year.

“We couldn’t be more proud and more thankful to our Members for getting behind this Club in such numbers this season,” Mr Richardson said.

“To have broken through the 10,000 Ticketed Member barrier before the Charity Shield is a testament to the passion our Members have for this Club, and the commitment they have made to making this a successful Club once again.

“We now have our sights on the Brisbane Broncos. They have over 12,000 Ticketed Members currently and we are coming after them.

“We don’t only want to be the number one Club in terms of total Membership, we also want to be number one in terms of Ticketed Membership.”

Mr Richardson says it’s important to not only recognise the 10,000-plus Ticketed Members, but the near-7,000 non-Ticketed Members that make a significant contribution to the Club as well.

“We have over 17,000 total Members who are cheering on the cardinal and myrtle in 2010, but we aren’t stopping there.

“It’s the best way that any fan can support their Club.”

To become a Rabbitohs Member for season 2010, visit www.rabbitohs.com.au/membership or call (02) 8306 9922 during business hours.