Tallon Smith
There will be no active senior rugby league club in Armidale this season after both of the city’s clubs announced their withdrawal from the 2026 Group 19 competition over the past week.
The Armidale Rams and Narwan Eels have joined the Bingara Bullets and the Walcha Roos in recess, meaning that the competition will only feature eight sides in 2026.
The Rams announced their senior sides would remain in recess for a second straight season last Friday, posting a statement to the club’s Facebook page.
“As we have already had people talking and reaching out, we would like to inform the community that unfortunately Armidale Rams R.L.F.C will not be fielding seniors this season,” the statement read.
“Apologies to those who felt disappointed that nothing had yet been posted.
“Although times are tough and the numbers just weren’t there, we don’t see this as a negative.
“Being a combined club of both juniors and seniors our small group of amazing volunteers have been extremely busy behind the scenes, with so many great things within our club that we CAN make happen this season, especially for our next generation moving forward.”
The disappointing news was followed by another statement from Narwan today, which confirmed they would also not feature in the 2026 competition, leaving Armidale without a senior team this year.
“It is with heavy hearts that we share that the Narwan Eels will not be participating in the 2026 season,” the statement said.
“This decision has not come easily. Over recent months, our committee have worked tirelessly, exploring every possible option to keep the club on the field.
“Despite these efforts, we have had to make the hard decision of not playing this year.
“Narwan has always been more than just a rugby league club, it’s a family, a place where lifelong friendships are formed and community spirit thrives.
“We are incredibly proud of the passion, commitment and resilience shown by everyone who has been part of our journey.
“We also wish to sincerely thank Group 19 and NSWRL for their ongoing support and for allowing us the time to implement different strategies and more importantly now plan for the future.
“While this is a difficult moment, this is not goodbye, just a break. We are already looking ahead and are committed to returning in 2027, bigger, stronger and better than ever.”
Barraba’s return to field a positive
In contrast to the disappointment of four clubs sitting out the season, one positive for the competition heading into this season is the introduction of Barraba into the competition.
Formerly a Group 4 side, the club last competed in that competition’s reserve grade in 2021, only to enter recess for four years before joining Group 19 over the summer.
Although the withdrawal of Narwan has led to a change in round one opponent for the Bulldogs, the club is looking forward to a triumphant return to the field against the Moree Boomerangs next weekend.
“Following the withdrawal of Narwan Rugby League Football Club from the 2026 season, the competition schedule has been revised,” a club media release read.
“As a result, at this stage Barraba will now open their season at home against the Moree Boomerangs on Saturday 18 April 2026 at the Barraba Recreation Ground.
“The Club looks forward to welcoming the community back for what promises to be an exciting start to the season.
“Further details, including match times and additional draw updates, will be communicated in the coming days.”
