The spirit of rugby league is set to thrive once again in Goilala with the launch of the Goilala Rugby League 9s Tournament now officially open for registration.
This year’s event aims to bring together local talent, ignite community pride and strengthen the sporting culture of the district.
The tournament is open only to players of Goilala heritage, providing a platform to nurture and showcase the region’s rich sporting talent.
With an entry fee of K500 per team, the competition offers K10,000 for the Cup winner and K5,000 for the runner-up.
Registrations will close on January 21st, 2026.
Tournament Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Steven Kauva Francis said the event is more than just a sporting competition, it’s about empowering the youth and building community spirit.
“The Goilala Rugby 9s Tournament is about giving our young people purpose, pride and opportunity,” Francis stated.
“We’re investing in the next generation of Goilala athletes, players who can one day represent not only their district but also the country. We want this tournament to be a pathway for them to shine.”
As one of the region’s most anticipated grassroots competitions, the Goilala Rugby League 9s will feature senior categories for both men and women with plans to include junior divisions from next year.
Rugby league 9s is a fast-paced variation of the traditional 13-a-side game, placing emphasis on speed, agility and skill, and offering an ideal platform for scouts and coaches to spot emerging talent.
Rugby league officials and selectors are expected to attend, making this an important event for aspiring players aiming to progress to higher levels of the sport.
Beyond the field, the tournament holds deeper significance for the Goilala community.
The event promotes youth empowerment, strengthens community unity and encourages healthy lifestyles, while also stimulating the local economy through small business involvement and tourism.
The tournament has already gained notable backing with Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko MP, committing K20,000 to support the event.
Organizers are also calling for further assistance from business houses and government offices across NCD and Central Province to help make the tournament a success.
“This is not just rugby, it’s community building,” Francis emphasized.
“We want families to come together, young people to stay active and focused and Goilala to be recognized for its passion, discipline, and potential.”
For interested teams or individuals, registration forms and contact details can be found on the Goilala Rugby League Facebook page or by reaching out directly through the organizers listed contacts.
The Goilala Rugby League 9s Tournament promises exciting competition alongside a celebration of Goilala’s unity, resilience and talent, laying the groundwork for even greater sporting success in the years ahead.
