Central West Black Trackers reach Koori Knockout after four-year rise
The Central West Black Trackers grew from a handful of friends in 2022 to 125 players now competing in the Koori Knockout.
The Central West Black Trackers started in 2022 with little more than a shared passion for rugby league and a few mates. Now the Indigenous club is preparing for its second Koori Knockout, the statewide First Nations competition that kicks off this weekend.
Club chairman Isaiah Ahsee said pulling on the jersey means everything to the team after their climb from a small knockout tournament to the state stage. Ahsee's mother Fallon designed the jersey.
The club grew quickly and now fields both junior and senior divisions across five sides. They became regular contenders in regional competitions and host their own annual Wellington Knockout.
The Koori Knockout runs from October 2 to 5, with junior matches first, then senior rounds and finals. Ahsee expects some tough opposition from bigger clubs but says the milestone is a source of pride for the Wellington community.
- 2022
- Founded
- 125
- Current players
- Five
- Sides fielded
- October 2-5
- Tournament dates
Why it mattersThis is a genuine community success: an Indigenous grassroots club built from nothing now competes at state level, strengthening pride and connection through sport.
AustraliaThe Koori Knockout celebrates First Nations culture and unity across NSW. The Black Trackers' rapid growth shows how rugby league builds community in regional areas outside major cities.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
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