Gerald Lynch
Rugby League has a new home in Broadmeadows, with the completion of the redeveloped Seabrook Reserve.
In conjunction with the state government and NRL Victoria, Hume council has opened the $22 million facility, which will act as the new headquarters for NRL Victoria.
This centre will be the new home for Melbourne Storm’s elite female development pathways, NRL Victoria and its youth development squads, and Touch Victoria, acting as a home for players and teams from grassroots to the elite level.
It features three new turf pitches, a pavilion with female friendly change rooms, a half pitch for touch rugby, high performance training facilities, medical facilities, match day amenities, a kitchen, and meeting and administration rooms, including space for community groups to meet.
Melbourne Storm currently has just three players originally from Victoria, but Melbourne Storm chief executive Justin Rodski said the facilities will help to bridge the gap for budding locals.
“The continued growth of rugby league locally and introduction of new Melbourne Storm pathways programs for female and male players is exciting for the game in Victoria,” he said.
“With the support of the Victorian Government and Hume City Council, we hope to see more local players wearing the Storm jersey in years to come.”
These facilities will also be used by local sports organisations and clubs including the Northern Thunder to ensure more grassroots clubs have the best facilities and infrastructure to support rugby league’s growth in Victoria.
Hume mayor Naim Kurt said the new facility will help to grow the game in Hume.
“This development will set a new standard for women’s sport and Rugby League development in Hume, while also being a win for the community,” he said.
Broadmeadows MP Kathleen Matthews-Ward is elated to see the development of the women’s program.
“We’re proud to create a vibrant rugby league hub in the heart of Broadmeadows, providing a boost for Melbourne Storm’s women’s program, local and community rugby,” she said.
