The second annual Brodie Pearson Memorial 9s competition hit Maitland Sports Ground over the weekend.
Featuring teams from Awabakal, Warragamba, West Wallsend, and Central Coast with notable NRL stars like Andrew Fifita and Blake Austin joining the Woy Woy side.
The Steel City women’s team with players from the Knights and South Sydney systems, successfully defended their title for the second consecutive year and the Voguey Memorial side, featuring Pete Mata’utia, triumphed in the grand final, defeating last year’s champions, the Woy Woy Roosters.
Honouring Brodie Pearson who tragically passed away during a match in 2023, the Memorial Day has seen extraordinary growth in just one year.
The Aberglasslyn Ants, Brodie’s beloved team, initiated the event, donating all proceeds to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, which played a vital role in Brodie’s rescue efforts.
Thanks to the support of teams, clubs, and sponsors, the event raised over $7,000 for the service and welcomed more than 700 attendees.
The West Wallsend Magpies, runners-up in the women’s competition, expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to honour Brodie and support the Ants. Harley Bateup from the NHRL ALLSTARS highlighted the strong sense of community in rugby league, saying it was heartening to see everyone come together.
All matches are available on BARTV and anticipation is already building for next year’s event. Visit facebook.com/brodie.pearson.memorial.rugby.league to find out more.
