APRL congratulates Singapore after completion of inaugural season

Asia Pacific Rugby League (APRL) has congratulated Singapore National Rugby League (SGNRL) on the successful completion of its first-ever SGNRL Domestic Championship, marking an important milestone in the continued development of rugby league in Singapore.

Played across August and September 2026, the inaugural championship featured three teams, 111 registered male players and seven matches, with approximately 60 per cent of registered players qualifying to represent Singapore. A wider group of local coaches and match officials were recruited ahead of the competition, and their development grew alongside the players throughout the season.

The inaugural season culminated in the Eastern Hornbills winning the Grand Final, closing an important first chapter for Singapore's new domestic competition.

APRL Chief Operating Officer Jeremy Edwards said the successful delivery of the championship was another positive sign for rugby league development across Asia.

"It is really encouraging to see the domestic game continuing to develop. Congratulations to everyone involved in delivering the first-ever SGNRL Championship.

"Establishing a sustainable domestic competition is an important part of building rugby league in Singapore. It provides more opportunities for local players to play the game regularly, while also developing coaches, match officials, administrators, and volunteers.

"Asia Pacific Rugby League congratulates the Eastern Hornbills on winning the inaugural championship and, importantly, congratulates all three teams and everyone who contributed to making the first season possible."

The championship was delivered through a strong grassroots and volunteer effort. SGNRL reported that its volunteer base has grown significantly off the back of the competition's success and visibility, with planning for the 2027 season already well underway.

SGNRL President Tony Marshall reflected on the remarkable strides the organisation has made in just twelve months, noting: "This was a pipe dream a couple of years ago. To go from a dream, to fielding a National Team, to running our own domestic league, is a tremendous testament to the passion of our volunteers and the unwavering support of our sponsors and partners, who helped turn that dream into a reality, and now into something even bigger."

The successful completion of the inaugural championship gives SGNRL a foundation to continue strengthening domestic participation and developing the people and structures needed to support the long-term growth of rugby league in Singapore.