LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The NRL and NRLW are considered the most diverse sporting codes in Australia, with players representing 65 different nations.
Wests Tigers player Alex Seyfarth has a mix of English, Spanish, Sri Lankan, and Slovenian heritage.
Bulldogs winger Marcelo Montoya was born in Fiji and has grandparents from Chile and Cuba.
Broncos prop Payne Haas and his brother Klese have grandparents from Samoa, Switzerland, and the Philippines.
Sea Eagles player Jason Saab has Indigenous, Lebanese, and Nigerian roots, while Broncos NRLW star Annetta-Claudia Nu'uausala was born in New Zealand to Samoan parents and has a Chinese grandparent.
"The game has always drawn upon first, second and third-generation migrants, including those from Pacific and Indigenous backgrounds, and it's great to see that the next generation is empowered to showcase their diverse cultures on the field," said NRL Head of Government and Community Relations, Jaymes Boland-Rudder.
The NRL's commitment to inclusion is further demonstrated by initiatives like Harmony Day, where clubs celebrate their cultural diversity, and programs like 'League in Harmony', which promotes the social inclusion of multicultural communities.
This diversity not only enriches the game but also serves as a reflection of Australia's multicultural society.
It promotes a sense of belonging and acceptance among players and fans alike.
"It's a reminder of what a powerful platform sport has to bring people together and unite cultures," said Boland-Rudder.
As the NRL and NRLW continue to grow and evolve, this diversity will only increase, showcasing the beauty of cultural exchange and understanding within the sporting community.
The inclusion and celebration of diverse backgrounds in the NRL and NRLW not only enhances the quality of the game but also highlights the importance of acceptance and respect for all individuals.
As the most multi-cultural sporting code in Australia, the NRL and NRLW serve as a powerful example of unity amidst diversity.