Wheelchair Rugby National League kicks off 2026 season with expanded Melbourne development round
The 2026 Wheelchair Rugby National League (WRNL) will officially launch its season with the National League Development Round Melbourne Invitational, taking place at Caroline Springs Leisure Centre from Friday 27 February to Sunday 1 March 2026.
The event marks an exciting expansion of the National League, with two development rounds scheduled across the early part of the year, starting with the Melbourne Invitational weekend and followed by additional development competition in Sydney next month. This early-season boost reflects the sport’s growth and the increasing depth of talent across Australia.
Eight teams with athletes from around the country will compete in the Melbourne Invitational. Given the high level of interest and participation, matches will be played in a fast, dynamic format of two 10-minute halves ensuring quality competition while maximising playing opportunities for athletes throughout the weekend.
“We’re excited to kick off the 2026 season with a strong field in Melbourne,” Wheelchair Rugby Australia National Development Coach Jason Lees said.
“Expanding to two development rounds to start the National League allows more athletes to engage with high-quality competition early in the year and supports the pathway from grassroots to elite performance. With enthusiastic participation and great support from local communities, this round sets a positive tone for the season ahead.”
In addition to the development matches, junior games will be played on both Saturday and Sunday, highlighting Wheelchair Rugby Australia’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletes and building broader participation across all age groups.
Victorian Government Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said he’s thrilled to welcome the league to Victoria to begin the 2026 season.
“What a way to kickstart the 2026 Wheelchair Rugby National League season with this development round in the sporting capital of Australia."
"We can’t wait to welcome players, staff and spectators to our state later this month thanks to support through the Significant Sporting Events Program.”
This Melbourne Invitational continues a proud tradition of national competition that brings together athletes, coaches, officials and fans in a celebration of sport, skill and community. It follows the strong momentum of the 2025 WRNL season – which saw unprecedented participation – and builds toward the full National League calendar with the Gold Coast Classic, Sunshine Coast Clash and The Finals running in the second half of the year.
Melbourne Invitational event details
📍 Location: Caroline Springs Leisure Centre, Melbourne, Victoria
📅 Dates: Friday 27 February – Sunday 1 March 2026
🕘 Time: 9:30am to 5pm Friday and Saturday, and 9am to 12pm Sunday
🎟️ Tickets: Free entry for spectators
Thank you to our key Melbourne Invitational National League Development Round partners and sponsors for their support: Victorian Government, Protect, The Rugby Club Foundation, Lite n’ Easy and Officeworks.
Interviews, photos and vision available upon request. Contact:
Emily Newton
Manager – Media & Marketing
emily@wheelchairrugby.com.au