NSW Police debut inaugural Indigenous rugby league team

Callan Morse
Callan Morse Published August 7, 2026 at 9.30am (AWST)

The NSW Police Force has announced its first ever Indigenous rugby league team, the Trackers, who will make their debut this weekend.

Selected in the inaugural side include 23 players, comprised of sworn police officers and unsworn staff of Indigenous background.

The side was selected after the NSW Indigenous Police Rugby League Club General Committee was formed to establish a rugby league team to strengthen connections between the police and Indigenous community through a strong tie on the sporting field.

Mount Druitt Police Area Commander, Superintendent Darrin Batchelor, who is on Trackers' team committee, said the milestone was more than just a game of rugby league.

"This historic occasion is an opportunity for the Trackers to strengthen their connection with Country and the communities that they serve, while showcasing their talents," Superintendent Batchelor said.

"The players have been training hard and were very proud to be representing our side."

The Trackers' preparation for Saturday's match against the Royal Australian Navy team included a training camp at the NSW Rugby League Centre of Excellence in Homebush last month, which also marked the team's official launch.

The camp began with a smoking ceremony led by Blacktown Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer and former NRL and Super League player, Uncle Dennis Moran, which provided an opportunity for players to build a strong team bond while strengthening their relationship with their culture.

On Thursday the team met with a number of current and former NRL players, before travelling to Redfern for training and a community engagement event.

NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon will present each player with their official team jersey on Friday ahead of Saturday's fixture.

Commissioner Lanyon said the formation of the team was a momentous and historic occasion for the force.

"The NSW Police Force is incredibly proud to introduce the Trackers, our first Indigenous rugby league team," Commissioner Lanyon said.

"This team brings together culture, policing and sport, and reflects the diversity and strength of our workforce.

"I know the players will represent the NSWPF with pride, and I congratulate all players selected and wish them every success in their match on Saturday."

The match between the Trackers and the Royal Australian Navy team commences at Sydney's Allianz Stadium on Saturday 8 August at 5:30pm.

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National Indigenous Times

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