Tallon Smith

The entry of four Group 20 sides has heralded a new era for the West Wyalong Knockout as the West Wyalong RLFC confirmed the entry of ten clubs over two months out from the two-day event.

After a period where many Group 20 sides passed up on the opportunity to play in the prestigious tournament, four sides have entered the event to be held on February 28 and March 1, with the Yenda Blueheelers, Leeton Greenies, Hay Magpies and TLU Sharks all set to take part in the event in addition to hosts West Wyalong.

The entries of Hay and Leeton mark a return after lengthy absences from the tournament, while Yenda and TLU will look to improve on their first round exits last year.

The cancellation of the annual Group 20 Knockout, which was usually held the weekend after the West Wyalong tournament and drew clubs away from it, has increased the demand for a slot at what is the toughest pre-season hit out west of the mountains, with over half the local competition’s clubs now confirmed and more expected to enter in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, reigning Group Nine Premiers, 2023 Knockout Champions and 2024 runners-up the Young Cherrypickers will look to reclaim another piece of silverware after going down to Canberra’s Woden Valley Rams this year.

Joining the Cherrypickers from Group Nine will be 2012 and 2013 Knockout winners South City and the Temora Dragons, both of whom performed strongly at the tournament in 2024.

2025 will also see the return of Group 10 and 11 sides, which throughout history have been a staple of the tournament due to its centrality between the Riverina and Western regions.

Two outfits from the Peter McDonald Premiership will compete, with the Orange CYMS and Parkes Spacemen returning to the Knockout arena to try and capture the crown from the Riverina sides.

The entry of 10 sides into the 16 team tournament leaves six places remaining, with the total prize money for the 2025 edition totalling $30,800.

Last year saw only eleven clubs enter the Knockout, with concerns raised about the future of the event, which in its heyday in the 1980s was held over three weekends such was the demand from clubs to enter.

With two months to go until the event, and sources from many clubs confirming their interest in participating, it is hoped that the event can fill all 16 spots on its draw for the 2025 edition.

Any clubs wishing to enter can contact the club via email at malleemen@hotmail.com.