Day 1 Recap | 2025 National League – Sunshine Coast Clash
The thrilling conclusion of our 2025 National League is here, with teams descending on the Sunshine Coast to battle it out for top honours in a weekend of world-class wheelchair rugby.
Adding to the excitement, athletes from Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby joined Division 1 as special guests, competing under the banners of GB1 and GB2. Their presence has lifted the intensity on court, giving fans the chance to see international talent in action alongside Australia’s best.
All photos by Joep Buijs Photography
The opening day delivered milestone moments. Sydney University’s Jayden Jackson celebrated his 50th game in club colours, making him just the second athlete in league history to achieve 50 games for a single club, and the very first to do so for the white, yellow, and blue. His consistency and leadership continue to shape the team and enhance our NSW program.
Sydney University also had another reason to celebrate, welcoming Rhiannon Bellette to Division 1 for the very first time. The rising star stepped up a tier for this round, proudly donning Sydney Uni’s stripes as she played with passion to show that she belongs at the top level.
In Division 2, the spotlight shifted to junior athlete Jaxon Vanderpoel, who made his National League debut with Box Hill. Roared on by the crowd, Jaxon showed composure and determination, keeping pace with seasoned athletes and proving he is one to watch for the future.
The day closed with a blockbuster clash between GB2 and the current National League ladder leader University of Queensland. Despite a determined effort from Chris Bond and his Red Heavies, the British squad proved too strong, underlining why both GB teams remain undefeated after day 1.
With international guests raising the stakes, milestones being celebrated, and exciting new talent emerging, the Sunshine Coast finale is shaping up as one for the history books.
Match results
Division 1
Sydney University - 53 vs Great Britain 2 - 59
Great Britain 1 - 57 vs Bond University - 37
Bond University - 57 vs Sydney University - 54
Great Britain 1 - 64 vs University of Queensland - 51
Division 2
Box Hill - 35 vs Melbourne University - 49
Melbourne University - 55 vs Barbarians - 34
Barbarians - 26 vs Box Hill - 39
Note: Due to last-minute operational considerations and athlete availability, Division 1 shifted from a six-team to a five-team format this round. Hunter Wildfires athletes joined other clubs, with all scheduled Hunter games marked as byes.
The action continues tomorrow at Caloundra Indoor Stadium at Golden Beach on the Sunshine Coast from 9:30am. Come down and catch the action live - it's free!